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Cathedral · Siena, Toscana
Duomo di Siena
The cathedral of white-and-black striped marble, with a marble mosaic floor, Nicola Pisano's pulpit, the Libreria Piccolomini and the view from the Facciatone.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Duomo di Siena
The Duomo di Siena, the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, was built mostly in the 13th century, on the highest point of the town. The façade mixes the lower Romanesque part, with sculptures by Giovanni Pisano, and the upper Gothic section. Inside, the columns with bands of white and black marble, the colors of Siena's coat of arms, set the tone for the whole church.
The floor is covered by 56 marble panels with biblical scenes, sibyls and allegories, made between the 14th and 16th centuries. For most of the year it is protected by wooden walkways, and only in certain periods, usually in summer and early autumn, is it fully revealed. Also notable are the pulpit by Nicola Pisano from 1268, statues by Michelangelo at the Piccolomini altar, and Bernini sculptures in the Chigi chapel.
Through a door in the left nave you enter the Libreria Piccolomini, a room built to house the books of Pope Pio II and painted by Pinturicchio in the early 16th century, with scenes from the pope’s life in very vivid colors. Beside the cathedral stands the Duomo Nuovo, the expansion begun in 1339 and abandoned after the plague of 1348: all that remains is a large wall, the Facciatone.
In the Museo dell'Opera, installed in that unfinished part, is the Maestà de Duccio, painted for the cathedral altar, and from there you can climb to the Panorama dal Facciatone, with views of the Piazza del Campo and the hills. The complex also includes the crypt and the baptistery beneath the cathedral.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One hour for the cathedral with the Libreria Piccolomini. With the Museo dell'Opera, the Facciatone, the crypt and the baptistery, allow two to three hours.
Best time
Right at opening, to see the Libreria Piccolomini with fewer people. If you want to see the floor fully uncovered, check the dates before you go.
How to get there
It is located on the Piazza del Duomo, about a 5-minute walk from the Piazza del Campo, uphill along the Via di Città.
Tip
The combined ticket for the complex includes the cathedral, Libreria Piccolomini, museum, Facciatone, crypt and baptistery. The climb up the Facciatone is in timed groups and involves narrow stairs. Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Duomo di Siena
When is the floor of the Duomo di Siena uncovered?
Only during certain periods of the year, usually in summer and early autumn, with dates set each year. At other times most panels remain covered by protective platforms.
What is the Facciatone?
It's the remaining wall of the Duomo Nuovo, the cathedral expansion abandoned after the plague of 1348. From the Museo dell'Opera you can climb to its top for views over the city.
What is in the Libreria Piccolomini?
Frescoes by Pinturicchio depicting the life of Pope Pius II, Enea Silvio Piccolomini, and decorated choir books. The room is located inside the cathedral.
Do I need appropriate clothing?
Yes. Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter the cathedral.
How much time should you allow?
At least one hour for the cathedral and the Libreria. Including the museum, the Facciatone, the crypt and the baptistery, two to three hours.