Museo dell'Opera del Duomo (Museum of the Works of the Cathedral), Florence (must see)

It would be a colossal mistake to go to the Duomo and not explore this museum. Due to the abundance of wonderful attractions in Florence, it gets less attention, but there are quite a few things to like here, including the relative lack of crowds, reasonable size and hours of operation, large open spaces with exhibits spaced out (so that one's viewing is not distracted), and a broad range of artifacts from the very old to the very new. Surprisingly modern inside, it's also one of the very few air-conditioned museums in Florence, which is a plus if you visit during the summer months.

As many of the items that you see around the Duomo are actually copies, the originals are housed in this museum for safekeeping. The most astounding item is, perhaps, the time-machine-like recreation of the Duomo's ancient facade, displayed in original scale and well-supplied with many astounding fine details (the original huge gold door is particularly unforgettable).

Other original masterworks that once adorned the Duomo, such as its baptistry and bell tower, are presented in brightly illuminated displays with a good sequence where one can check each closely. Fortunately, a number of long benches were thoughtfully placed so that visitors can sit down and feast the eyes without becoming dizzy, as happens outside when trying to take it all it at once.

The whole museum can be easily covered in about two hours but, of course, art lovers may want to leave a little more room. Descriptions are in Italian and English so that you can be your own tour guide.

***MICHELANGELO'S MASTERPIECES***
Michelangelo's pietà displayed here, known as "The Deposition" or "The Lamentation over the Dead Christ", is quite different from the one in St. Peter's Basilica (Rome), but just as beautiful and very well presented in a simple room that truly allows one to immerse themselves in the art. Crafted during the last days of the maestro's life, this sculpture portrays Jesus' lifeless body being tenderly cradled by his mother Mary, accompanied by Mary Magdalene and Nicodemus, whose face, concealed by a hood, is believed to be a self-portrait. Regrettably left unfinished due to Michelangelo's relentless carving, which consumed the available stone, this artwork carries an abstract quality that resonates with the artistic concepts of the 20th century.

Tip:
Make sure not to overlook the rooftop terrace, where you can enjoy a prime view of the Duomo!