Reparata, a 3rd-century martyr and one of the patron saints of Florence, stands at the main entrance to the Duomo on the western facade. The sculpture's position is rich in symbolism and speaks to Reparata's enduring influence in Florence. The western door of the cathedral sits directly across from the separate baptistry building; newly baptized believers exit the baptistry and enter the cathedral to receive their first communion, welcomed by Reparata, and her co-patron, St. Zenobius, who flanks the right side of the door.

Before the Duomo’s construction in the 14th century, a church dedicated to Reparata existed on this site since the 5th century, making it one of Florence’s earliest Christian churches.