Chiesa di Orsanmichele

This oddly jewel-like building started out as a grain market that was walled in during the 14th century to create a church, though the upper floors remained a working granary. With its lace-like stone window frames and gold and lapis lazuli tabernacle, it’s a masterpiece of Italian Gothic. Outdoor niches are populated with masterworks of early Renaissance sculpture by Donatello, Ghiberti and company. Most are copies, but you can see the originals – plus stunning city views – by visiting the upper floors, which are now open to the public for the first time in decades (10am-5pm Mon only, admission free).