Churches tend to spring up around sites of reported miracles. For this one, it was the tale of St. Fridianus, who crossed the River Arno while it was raging, at a nearby spot. Reports of a church on this site date back to before the 11th century. The Baroque Roman Catholic Building you see today was completed towards the end of the 17th century. There used to be a convent here, made famous by the ecstatic visions of Saint Magdalena de Pazzi. Her visions told of divine wills reforming the Church. After her death, she was transferred to the church that now bears her name. Highlights of this church are:

• A statue of St Maria Maddalena de' Pazzi.
• A statue ofSt. Bernard of Clairvaux defeats the devil.
• A polychrome wooden Madonna and child.
• Frescoes on the life of the founder of the Cistercian order.
• The majestic cupola and bell tower.
• Frescoes of the glory of St. Magdalena on the dome.

• The entrance can be hard to spot. It’s a small door in the alley to the west of the church.
• The church is reported sometimes closed even during its opening hours.

• San Frediano 04 Bus stop

Love this? Explore the entire list of places to visit in Florence before you plan your trip.

Fancy a good night's sleep after a tiring day? Check out where to stay in Florence and book an accommodation of your choice.