The fragment was 15 inches (40 cm) in diameter. The accident happened in the presence of the tourist’s wife, who is in a state of deep shock.
Both as a sign of mourning, and to aid police investigation, Santa Croce will be closed all day on October 20.
The Franciscan church contains important frescoes by Giotto, the Pazzi Chapel, a Renaissance landmark designed by Brunelleschi and decorated by Luca Della Robbia, as well as the monumental tombs of Michelangelo and Galileo.
According to authorities, only a week ago, the stonework was cleaned and its condition checked by experts who found no need for concern. To see a photo gallery and a video, visit Florence’s La Repubblica news site.