The ascent to the dome, both rugged and impressive, seems to take you deep into the bowels of the cathedral. Access to the top is via a staircase built between the two domes, giving a glimpse of the very structure of the dome. The final, very steep section is the most spectacular, leading to the foot of the lantern, Brunelleschi's last work. From here, there is a magnificent panorama of Florence, with its shades of ochre tiles, cascading terraces and monuments.