BASILICA SANTA MARIA ALL'IMPRUNETA
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Built on the site of an ancient pilgrimage site of importance since the Trecento (i.e. the 14th century in Italy), and since then redesigned, the Basilica of St Mary of Impruneta was consecrated in 1060 by Cardinal Umberto di Selva Candida. Its high crenellated bell tower dates from the 13th century. The interior has a large single nave in Renaissance style, a typical polygonal apse, and includes works by Jacopo Chimenti (1554-1640), trained in Maso San Friano's workshop, and the famous Florentine sculptor Luca della Robbia (1400-1482).
The reputation of this sanctuary, one of the most famous Marian sanctuaries in Tuscany, is based on the cult of the image of the Virgin Mary. Indeed, in the chapel of the Virgin Mary is preserved the famous icon of the Madonna which attracted so many pilgrims during the 14th century, and which tradition assigns to Saint Luke the Evangelist. According to legend, when Christianity arrived, the image of the Virgin Mary was taken to Florence by Saint Romolo. Due to persecutions, he hid the image in pruinetis ("among the pines"), hence the name Impruneta.
The last major restoration of the building dates back to the 1950s. The church was seriously damaged during the Second World War.
Finally, the museum (museo del Tesoro) contains many precious objects (illuminated manuscripts, sacred clothing, gold and silver jewellery...) related to the rich history of this Basilica of Santa Maria.
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