The cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence began construction in 1296 under Arnolfo di Cambio, on the site of an ancient cathedral. Construction continued in phases over centuries, with the central nave completed in 1378, the sides in 1380, and the transept and drum built between 1380-1421. Filippo Brunelleschi finally crowned the cathedral with his iconic dome in 1434. The cathedral blends Romanesque and Gothic elements, with the octagonal dome representing Renaissance art.