Prato Cathedral, Prato

Prato Cathedral, known officially as the Cathedral of Saint Stephen, stands as an architectural marvel in the heart of Prato, Italy. This Roman Catholic church is not only a central place of worship but also a repository of art and history, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of the region.

Constructed in the Romanesque style with later Gothic additions, the cathedral features a striking exterior facade made of green and white marble, a characteristic feature of Tuscan medieval architecture. The church's most notable feature is its external pulpit, designed by Michelozzo and decorated by Donatello, which is used for the public display of the revered relic of the Holy Girdle of the Virgin Mary during the annual Feast of the Assumption.

Inside, the cathedral's nave and aisles are adorned with intricate frescoes and artworks, including the renowned fresco cycles by Filippo Lippi in the choir chapel, depicting scenes from the life of John the Baptist and the life of Saint Stephen, the cathedral's patron saint. These masterpieces are considered some of the finest examples of Renaissance art in Italy.

The Prato Cathedral is an active place of worship, with services and masses held regularly for the faithful. It also attracts art lovers and history enthusiasts from all over the world, drawn by its rich artistic heritage and its importance as a religious site.