Built in the 13C and 14C to meet the needs of the growing city of Florence, Santa Maria del Fiore, one of the largest churches in the Christian world, evokes a golden rose offered by Pope Eugenius IV during its consecration in 1436. Started in 1296 by Arnolfo di Cambio, the completed building is a fine example of the Florentine Gothic style with its horizontal lines and large spaces. Arnolfo di Cambio was also responsible for the initial façade.