Santa Reparata was the former cathedral of Florence, named for Saint Reparata, an early virgin martyr and co-patron saint of the city. Legend links its origin to the defeat of Radagaisus's Ostrogoths in 405 or 406. The archaeologist Busignani dates the basilica to the end of the fourth century or the early fifth century. Florence Cathedral was later built over it, and the cornerstone of the new cathedral was laid on September 8, 1296.
It was an early Christian basilica with three naves separated by fourteen pairs of columns, and semicircular apses. A likely Carolingian reconstruction added a crypt, and Romanesque additions included enlarged apses and two flanking towers.
A large mosaic floor features rosettes, Christian symbols and an inscription naming 14 sponsors. A council convened by Pope Victor II opened in the church in 1055.
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