Duomo di Siena
13th-century structure famed for its facade & its marble stripes in symbolic black & white.
Piazza del Duomo, 8, 53100 Siena SI, ItalyAccessibility
- Wheelchair-accessible car park
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance
The Duomo di Siena, located in the heart of the Tuscan city, is a must-see for visitors. Built in the 12th century, this cathedral is one of the most important examples of Italian Romanesque-Gothic architecture. The Duomo is a remarkable structure, with its distinctive black and white marble façade and its soaring bell tower.
Inside, the Duomo is filled with beautiful artworks and sculptures. The interior is decorated with frescoes, mosaics, and sculpture, including the renowned "Madonna and Child" by Duccio di Buoninsegna. The cathedral also houses the Piccolomini Library, with its ornate frescoes and ceiling.
The Duomo di Siena is home to some of the most important works of art in Italy. It is best known for its magnificent fresco cycle, the "Legend of the True Cross", painted by Pinturicchio in the 15th century. This fresco cycle depicts the story of the discovery of the True Cross, a relic of the crucifixion of Jesus.
The Duomo also houses the "Libro della Misericordia" (Book of Mercy), a famous illuminated manuscript from the early 15th century. The manuscript is a collection of prayers and devotions dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
The Duomo di Siena is a must-see for any visitor to the city. It is an essential part of the cultural heritage of Siena, and its artworks and architecture are a testament to the city's rich history. Visitors should also take the time to explore the nearby Piazza del Campo, the main square of Siena, and the Torre del Mangia, the city's iconic bell tower.
The Duomo di Siena is open to the public, and offers guided tours of the cathedral and its artworks. There are also special exhibitions and events throughout the year, such as the Palio di Siena, a traditional horse race held in the Piazza del Campo.
The Duomo di Siena is a must-see for any visitor to Siena. Its artworks, frescoes, and sculptures are some of the most important examples of Italian Romanesque-Gothic architecture, and its fresco cycle, the "Legend of the True Cross" is a masterpiece of Renaissance art. The cathedral also houses the Piccolomini Library and the "Libro della Misericordia" (Book of Mercy), making it a must-visit destination in Siena.
Reviews
One of the most unique and beautiful cathedrals in Italy. It’s known for it’s stunning dark green (looks black) and white marble. You need to purchase tickets to enter-unless you are going for mass. Mass is free. I recommend a skip the line pass so you can walk right in if it’s busy. I have seen a lot of cathedrals and this is right up there with St. Peters Basilica (Vatican).
Before visiting Siena, we knew that Siena was a rich small independent republic, developed even before Florence. We knew they have a great cathedral. But we were astonished when we saw it. Both exterior and interior are super elegant. On the floor are so many colorful engraving paintings, many of them are bible stories. It’s really impressive. We bought combined tickets for cathedral, church museum and the library.
A very unique and beautiful church, the most impressive in Siena. It's not too far from the main plaza. The outside is gorgeous and the Vatican inside is a pleasant surprise. There are cool busts of the Popes around the inside of the cathedral. Nice visit!