This is the third great building in the artistic and cultural triangle of Siena. It has been in use since the end of the 11th Century to aid the sick and the pilgrims that trod the Via Francigena from Canterbury to Rome, these pilgrims were referred to as "Romei". The various sections of the building really should be visited and the frescoes in the Pellegrino admired. Today, the building is open for visits and also houses museums and shops.
The Orti dei Tolomei, or the Tolomei 'Vegetable Gardens,' can be accessed from Via P. A. Mattioli. There are benches for a rest, or to stop and enjoy the view of the surrounding valley and hills, the tower, and the basilica. Its location above the city grants the visitor an eyeful.
Baptistry is a beautiful cathedral, built in 1283, and has a rich history to enunciate. The structure is admired by many for its colossal architecture, marble facades and eclectic relics and sculptures. The huge dome of the cathedral is a major attraction along with a small marble font by Andrea Sansovino. A great visit! Call ahead to know about their opening hours.
Pienza was the vision of Pope Pius II who wanted to reconstruct his birthplace into a Renaissance town. It was designed by Bernardo Rossellino. The Historic Centre of the City of Pienza is the heart of this quaint Tuscan city. You will find Gothic architecture with traces of German styles in its structures. Some of the major sights are the Piazza Pio II, The Duomo (Cathedral), Piccolomini Palace, Episcopal Palace and the Town Hall.
One of the most iconic landmarks in the town of Pienza, the Palace of Piccolomini showcases spectacular Renaissance architecture. Surrounded by manicured gardens, the palace was designed by Rossellino in stone and marble. This magnificent structure served as a summer residence for the Pope. From his palace Pope Pius II enjoyed an enchanting view of the Val d'Orcia and Monte Amiata. Visitors to the museum can admire the Pope's private chambers, appointed with furniture, paintings and diverse household items of the day. On the ground floor is a permanent exhibition devoted to Pope Pius II's ambitious project to turn his birthplace into an ideal humanistic city.
The most important landmark of the beautiful Tuscan town, Piazza Pio II is a treasure trove of history. All the town's important buildings stand on this trapezoidal square: the largest building on the central Piazza Pio II square is the Palazzo Piccolomini, the papal residence. Next to it is the Pienza Cathedral with its Renaissance facade. Opposite stand the Town Hall, the Palazzo Communale with its loggia and the fourth building is the Palazzo Vescovile. Developed over time, this square bottles the Renaissance time period.