Many tours of Tuscany offer only a brief visit to Siena, the Tuscan capital. They will take you around its treasures, but we think it is something to cherish and to spend time exploring.
This is more evident than in the Cathedrale di Santa Maria, or the Duomo, a Gothic cathedral. It is one of the most beautiful gothic churches in Italy. Construction began in 1229 but was not completed until the 14 Century.
The locals were so proud of their cathedral that they decided to expand it massively, only 20 years later. However, it was abandoned after it became clear that the foundations weren’t strong enough to support the new structure.
A Stunning Exterior
The outside Siena Cathedral is unlike anything else you’ll see on your Tuscany tours. Its striking black-and-white striped motif, which is said to represent the colours of the city, elaborate sculptures by Giovanni Pisano on its façade, and stunning stained glass windows are all designed to impress.
Beautiful Interior
The cathedral’s massive pillars are adorned with a black-and-white marble motif that carries into the interior. This creates a striking geometric pattern that seems to increase both height and volume. Marble statues of Roman Emperors and popes are featured in the church. The stunning stained-glass window with rose design is a representation of the Last Supper.
Marble Floor
It might be surprising that Siena Cathedral is visited by many people who are not looking up, despite its elaborate decorations. The marble floor is one of its most beautiful and decorative elements.
Over 40 artisans and craftsmen worked on 56 marble panels between the 14th and the 16th Centuries. It is incredible to see how different techniques were used by artists throughout this long period, from early inscribes into marble to later inlays of other coloured stones.
Discover the Gothic Masterpiece at Siena Cathedral
The Piccolomini Library Frescoes
The Piccolomini Library is located in the left aisle of the cathedral. It was built by Cardinal Francesco Piccolomini to honor Enea Silvio Piccolomini who served as Pope Pius II. It was originally built to house essential manuscripts from the 15th Century, but the stunning frescoes decorate the walls that captivate today’s visitors. They were painted by Pinturicchio, his school, and depict scenes from Enea Silvio Piccolomini’s life.
Renaissance Masterpieces
Nicola Pisano’s stunning sculptures decorate the cathedral’s interior and exterior. There are also a variety of impressive artworks that have been transferred to the Museo del Duomo. We will be highlighting Donatello’s Madonna and Child and Pietro Lorenzetti’s Birth of the Virgin, and Duccio Di Buoninsegna’s Maesta, one of the most impressive altarpieces ever created.
Our Tuscany tours are led by expert guides who know that guests want to be able to look at the magnificent works and to enjoy the rich history and culture of cities such as Siena with its cathedral. We want you to enjoy the experience to the fullest and uncover all the amazing facts and secrets that these incredible places have to offer.