Sant'Ambrogio is one of Florence's oldest churches, with origins in the 9th century and a recorded history going back to 988. The current Gothic building dates largely from the 13th century. The neighbourhood of Sant'Ambrogio — one of the most characterful parts of the city — takes its name from this church.
Inside, the main art historical interest is a tabernacle by Mino da Fiesole (c. 1481) in the left aisle, a delicate marble work set against a painted background. There is also a fresco attributed to Cosimo Rosselli depicting a miraculous event associated with the church's relics. Sant'Ambrogio is rarely visited by tourists, which gives it a genuine parish church atmosphere — the kind that has largely been displaced elsewhere in central Florence by the weight of visitors. Mass is still said here regularly, and the church is used by the local community.