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Museum · Siena, Toscana
Santa Maria della Scala
One of the oldest hospitals in Europe, opposite the Duomo, today a museum featuring the painted Pellegrinaio, the original Fonte Gaia and the archaeological museum.
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 Santa Maria della Scala
Santa Maria della Scala occupies a large complex of buildings facing the Duomo’s façade. It functioned as a hospital for almost a thousand years, from at least the 11th century, hosting pilgrims from the Via Francigena, the sick, the poor and abandoned children. It ceased being a hospital at the end of the 20th century and became a museum complex.
The best-known space is the Pellegrinaio, a long inpatient hall built in the 14th century and covered with 15th-century frescoes by Domenico di Bartolo and others, which depict the hospital’s daily life: caring for the sick, receiving children, distributing food. They offer a rare portrait of everyday life of the period.
The route descends through several floors excavated into the hillside. In one of the rooms are the original reliefs from the Fonte Gaia by Jacopo della Quercia, removed from the Piazza del Campo. There is also the chapel with the treasure of relics bought in Constantinople in the 14th century, the Collezione Piccolomini Spannocchi of paintings and, on the lowest levels, the Museo Archeologico Nazionale, with Etruscan pieces from the region.
The visit is extensive and less crowded compared with the Duomo, which makes it a good choice for the hottest or rainiest hours.
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
From one and a half to two and a half hours, depending on interest.
Best time
Around midday or on a rainy day, when the square is hot or wet. On the first Sunday of the month admission is free and visitor numbers tend to increase.
How to get there
It is located on the Piazza del Duomo, in front of the cathedral façade, about a 5-minute walk from the Piazza del Campo.
Tip
Start with the Pellegrinaio and the Fonte Gaia, the most important points, and only then descend to the levels of the archaeological museum if you have time.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Santa Maria della Scala
What was Santa Maria della Scala?
A hospital that operated for about a thousand years, sheltering pilgrims, the sick and abandoned children. Today it is a museum complex.
What should not be missed?
The Pellegrinaio, with 15th-century frescoes about life in the hospital, and the original reliefs of the Fonte Gaia by Jacopo della Quercia.
How long does the visit take?
Between one and a half and two and a half hours. The complex has several floors and includes the Museo Archeologico Nazionale.
Are there days with free entry?
Yes, on the first Sunday of each month entry is free. Check before you go.