The dome of the Duomo is the tallest and most prominent structure in Florence rising to 330 feet high and one acre around. In 1368, this enormous size posed a great technical challenge for the architects. Many architects submitted their plans and in 1420 Filippo Brunelleschi's plan for the Dome was accepted. His design was based on classic Roman architecture where there would be an inner dome and an outer dome which you see here with one dome supporting the other for added strength. A staircase runs up between the domes to the cupola where people can view the city. The is a masterpiece of renaissance art and architecture. It was the largest Dome in the world until the completion of St Peter's 150 years later.
