San Miniato was begun in 1018 on the site of a 4th century church on the mountain across the Arno from the historic center of Florence.
The church ,though it was not completed till the 15th century, is a fine example of Romanesque architecture.
The the arcades decorating the lower part of the facade are one of the classic features of Romanesque architecture.
A mosaic in the upper part of the facade, shows Christ between the Virgin and St. Miniatus.

The church overlooks Piazzale Michelangelo below, and has a wonderful view of the entire city of Florence. (next image)
The interior of the church has a magnificent mosaic of Christ and symbols of the apostles in the upper level of the apse, which can be
accessed by stairs on either side of the nave. Fragments of frescoes are on the walls of the nave.
There is a "light box" on the right side of this balcony area where a few Euros will light up the mosaic, and is well worth
digging in your pocket for the coins.

The church is within easy wallking distance of the historic center of Florence, but must be accessed by a steep set of steps
to get to the lower level of the church, where visitors must climb the steps shown in this image. City busses make a stop
just at the lower part of the site where this picture was taken.