With 1.4 million visitors passing through Florence’s cathedral complex each year, the Santa Maria del Fiore administration has promised that more stringent security measures will be put into effect prior to the 2018 tourist season.
In December, security staff was increased at the entrances to the monuments. Now visitors will undergo the latest generation of walk-through metal detectors, similar to those used in international airports. This is a noticeable upgrade from the previously used handheld detectors, which is hoped to significantly reduce waiting time when accessing the sites. Storage space for bags is expected to be added in the near future.
The first four metal detectors have been stationed at the entrances to the Cathedral and will enter into force today: two scanners installed at the north entrance on the Cathedral’s façade, one when accessing Brunelleschi’s dome and another by the Porta dei Canonici, used by worshippers. By Easter all seven detectors are expected to be in effect, including the Opera del Duomo Museum, the Baptistery and Giotto’s Bell Tower, the latter requiring more work as the layout will be altered to gain additional space.
