Construction began in 1296 of Florence's famous cathedral, with an adventurous design incorporating a dome whose size had not been attempted since the building of the Pantheon. One man rose to the challenge in 1418, Filippo Brunelleschi , who during the whole process managed to invent various new construction methods as well as take part in a war or two. The glorious neo-gothic façade was only recently completed during the 19th C. The interior is not to be missed either with incredible frescoes and Donatello's stained glass windows. Open 10am-5pm Monday to Saturday, 1pm-5pm Sunday and religious holidays. The cathedral entry is free but there is a charge to enter the Baptistry and the Cupola (Dome).