Siena’s Cathedral: The Stunning Duomo

If you’re planning a trip to the stunning city of Siena in Italy, the Duomo di Siena, or Siena’s Cathedral, should be high on your list of must-see attractions. This striking Romanesque-Gothic architectural landmark is not just a treasure trove of aesthetic beauty, but also a time capsule brimming with rich history and invaluable art. In this article, you will find useful tips to organize your visit.

History of Siena’s Cathedral

Majestically rising in the square bearing its name, the Duomo di Siena is one of the most notable examples of Italian Romanesque-Gothic architecture. Visiting this monument elevates the spirit, immerses one in art, and unveils one of the city’s most valuable treasures.

The Duomo di Siena, also known as the Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral, replaced an ancient church dedicated to Mary, built around the 9th century, where previously a temple dedicated to Minerva stood. The current structure is believed to have been consecrated in 1179, in the presence of Pope Alessandro III Bandinelli, after reconciliation with Barbarossa.

The earliest evidence of Nicola Pisano‘s contribution, one of the most innovative artists of the 13th century, to the construction of the Duomo di Siena dates back to April 1259. To him, we owe the famous pulpit, now situated in the cathedral’s left transept.

His son, Giovanni Pisano, was responsible for constructing the lower part of the facade between 1284 and 1297, as well as creating the sculptures of prophets, sibyls, and philosophers that originally adorned the facade.

The construction of the Duomo di Siena is a true testament to the skill and dedication of countless master craftsmen. At the end of 1262, a house was purchased to host the “Opera” headquarters and the master craftsmen’s workshop, where marbles used in the cathedral’s construction were worked.

Treasures of the Siena Cathedral

The cathedral’s interior houses many masterpieces created over centuries. The floor, in particular, is noteworthy. Described by Giorgio Vasari as “the most beautiful, grand, and magnificent ever built”, it was started in the 14th century and only finished in the 19th century. The preliminary designs for the fifty-six inlays were provided by significant painters and sculptors, all from Siena, except Bernardino di Betto, known as Pinturicchio.

The Duomo di Siena is also known for sculpture. Some of the greatest sculptors of all time have worked here, including Nicola Pisano, Giovanni Pisano, Donatello (with the statue of St. John the Baptist), Michelangelo (who crafted the statues of Saints Peter and Paul), and Gian Lorenzo Bernini (Mary Magdalene). Furthermore, many notable paintings still reside in the cathedral, including works by Pinturicchio, Ventura Salimbeni, and Alessandro Casolani.

The cathedral also houses a series of beautiful stained-glass windows. The most important one, created by Duccio di Buoninsegna, was recently moved to the Museo dell’Opera and replaced by a copy. The facade features a window depicting the Last Supper, completed in 1549 by Pastorino de’ Pastorini, a pupil of Guillaume de Marcillat.

When to visit the Siena Cathedral

If you want to enter the famous Duomo di Siena, check out the opening hours, which vary according to the time of year. It’s also worth knowing that there’s an entrance fee. The Duomo di Siena is open to the public at the following times:

From April 1 to October 31:
From 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Sundays and Holidays: From 1:30 PM to 6:00 PM.
Saturdays and Holiday Eves: From 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM.

From November 1 to March 31:
From 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Sundays and Holidays: From 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM.
Saturdays and Holiday Eves: From 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM.

From December 26 to January 6:
From 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM.
Sundays and holidays: From 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM.
Saturdays Holiday Eves: From 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM.

Period when the Floor is uncovered (2025)
From June 27 to July 31 and from August 19 to October 15
From 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Sundays and Holidays: From 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM.

The last admission is half an hour before closing. The timings may change due to religious ceremonies.

Tickets for the Duomo di Siena

At first glance, it can be a little confusing to figure out how much it costs to enter Siena Cathedral. First of all, prices vary according to the time of year: at some times, the floor is covered, and at others, it is uncovered. When it’s uncovered, it’s more expensive; when it’s covered, it’s cheaper.

Additionally, there’s a ticket type that includes only the cathedral and the Piccolomini Library; another called “Opa Si Pass” that allows entry to all the museums in the complex and is valid for three consecutive days; and there’s the “Porta del Cielo” ticket, a unique ticket that, in addition to permitting entry to all the museums in the complex, grants access to the cathedral’s ceiling.

Below you can see the prices of the tickets with the possibility of purchasing the tickets directly from the official authorized dealer.

Category	Full Price	Reduced Price	Free	Buy Online
Only Cathedral and Piccolomini Library Period 2025: 27/06-31/07 | 19/08 – 15/10	8.00	6.00	0.00	buy here
Only Cathedral and Piccolomini Library Period 2025: until 26/06 | 01/08 – 17/08 | 16/10 – 06/01	5.00	2.00	0.00	buy here
Opa Si Pass (all museums) – FLOOR UNCOVERED Period 2025: 27/06-31/07 | 19/08 – 15/10	15.00	2.00	0.00	buy here
Opa Si Pass (all museums) – FLOOR COVERED Period 2025: until 26/06 | 01/08 – 17/08 | 16/10 – 06/01	13.00	2.00	0.00	buy here
Porta del Cielo (all museums plus ceiling)	20.00	5.00	0.00	buy here

If you visit the Siena Cathedral in summer, be aware that it is not allowed to enter with sleeveless shirts or short shorts and skirts.

If you prefer, book a guided tour in Siena with cathedral tickets through Get Your Guide.

Visiting the Duomo of Siena is an unforgettable experience that unveils the hidden treasures of Italian art. The Romanesque-Gothic style of this monument, coupled with the artwork it harbors, makes it an essential attraction for any visitor to Siena.