The
Cathedral of Siena, also known as the
Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, is one of the most precious gems of Italian Gothic architecture. Located in the heart of the Tuscan city, this masterpiece captivates the attention of tourists and art enthusiasts with its magnificence and the richness of its artistic details. Built between the
12th and 14th centuries, the Cathedral of Siena represents a sublime expression of medieval art and human ingenuity.
Brief History of the Cathedral of Siena
Construction of the Cathedral of Siena began in
1196, on the site of a previous 9th-century church. The original project, which aimed to expand it into one of the largest cathedrals in Christendom, was scaled down due to the
Black Death of 1348 that decimated Siena’s population.
The facade of the Cathedral, completed in
1380, is a masterwork by
Giovanni Pisano, adorned with intricate sculptures and a suggestive use of white, green, and red marble. Inside, the cathedral features a majestic central nave with alternating white and black columns and houses numerous important works of art. The pulpit by
Nicola Pisano, sculpted between
1265 and 1268, is one of the most significant examples of Gothic sculpture.
One of the most distinctive elements of the Cathedral of Siena is its floor, created between the
14th and 18th centuries. It consists of over fifty panels depicting biblical and allegorical scenes, executed using the technique of inlaid marble. This unique floor is visible only for a few months each year, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Over the centuries, the Cathedral of Siena has witnessed important historical and religious events, representing a symbol of faith and art for the city and for all of Italy.
The Artists Who Created and Decorated the Cathedral of Siena
The Cathedral of Siena has been enriched by the work of many talented artists.
Giovanni Pisano designed the facade with elaborate sculptures and decorations in white, green, and red marble.
Nicola Pisano sculpted the pulpit between
1265 and 1268, a masterpiece of Gothic sculpture.
The floor, considered one of the most beautiful in the world, was created between the 14th and 18th centuries by various artists, including
Domenico di Niccolò,
Matteo di Giovanni, and
Domenico Beccafumi. These panels depict biblical and allegorical scenes using the technique of inlaid marble.
The Piccolomini Library, frescoed by
Pinturicchio, houses valuable pictorial cycles, while inside the cathedral you can admire works by
Donatello,
Michelangelo, and
Bernini. These artists have contributed to making the Cathedral of Siena a treasure of art and history.
Why is the Cathedral of Siena Famous?
The Cathedral of Siena is renowned for several reasons. Firstly, its facade is a masterpiece of white, green, and red marble that creates an extraordinary visual effect. Additionally, the interior of the cathedral is equally impressive, with a central nave adorned by alternating white and black columns that give it a majestic appearance. However, what makes the Cathedral of Siena unique is its floor, considered one of the most beautiful ever created. The floor consists of over fifty panels depicting biblical and allegorical scenes, executed using the technique of inlaid marble.
What to See in the Cathedral of Siena?
Besides the magnificent floor, the Cathedral of Siena houses a series of must-see artworks. Among these is the
Piccolomini Library, a true Renaissance treasure with frescoes by
Pinturicchio and his pupils, including the young
Raphael. Also not to be missed is the
Chapel of Saint John the Baptist, which houses a splendid statue of the saint sculpted by
Donatello. The main altar and the pulpit sculpted by
Nicola Pisano are other testimonies to the artistic skill that permeates the cathedral.
When Can You See the Cathedral of Siena's Floor?
The floor of the Cathedral of Siena is usually covered to protect it from wear, but it is uncovered for a limited period each year, usually from late
June to the end of
July, and then again from late
August to late
October. These periods are the perfect opportunity to closely admire the complexity and beauty of the mosaics that make up the floor.
How Much Does a Ticket to the Cathedral of Siena Cost?
The cost of a ticket to the Cathedral of Siena can vary depending on the areas you wish to visit. A basic ticket for the cathedral costs around
9 euros, while a ticket that includes access to the
Piccolomini Library, the
Opera Museum, the
Baptistery, and the
Cryp can be about
15 euros. There is also an "OPA Si Pass" ticket available, which offers access to all the main attractions of the Cathedral complex for about
20 euros.
Why Visit the Cathedral of Siena
Visiting the Cathedral of Siena is an essential experience for anyone in Tuscany. The unique combination of art, history, and spirituality that pervades this place is simply unparalleled. Every detail of the cathedral, from its magnificently inlaid floor to the artworks adorning its chapels, tells a story of devotion and artistic mastery. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a believer, or simply a tourist, the Cathedral of Siena will enchant you and leave you with an indelible memory.
