The stunning floor uncovered of the Duomo of Siena

From today you can see the stunning marble floor of Siena Cathedral, specially uncovered until October.

A bit of history

The Cathedral of Siena if literally full of incredible masterpieces that include the breathtaking floor, unique masterpiece of marble. This inlaid marble artwork has been over two centuries between 14th and 16th centuries, thanks to the contribution of about 40 important Sienese artists, including the Umbrian Pinturicchio.

Giorgio Vasari described it as “the most beautiful, largest and most magnificent, that ever was made”. The floor consists of 56 panels describing tales from biblical narratives. Most of the panels have a rectangular shape, except for those in transept that are hexagons or rhombuses.

Very beautiful are the Sibyls from the Old testament, representing virtues and allegories. Have a look at the She-Wolf nursing the twin brothers, within a circle connected to other 8 smaller ones that represent the emblems of cities in Central Italy, such as Rome and Pisa.

You really should see the Story of the Fortune by Pinturicchio, The Sacrifice of Isaac by Domenico Beccafumi, and the Slaughter of the Innocents by Matteo di Giovanni.

Details

The marble floor of the Duomo in Siena is especially uncovered from today August 18th to October 24th. As a matter of fact it is generally covered with a red carpet to protect it from the footsteps of many visitors.

The Duomo is open from 10.30am to 7pm during weekedays and from 9.30 to 6pm during holidays. Ticket costs 6 euro per person and 5 euro reduced The full ticket, including the Cathedral Museum Complex costs 12 euro.

Guided tours in different languages are available every day and departs at11am, 12pm, 2.30pm and 3.30pm. Tours can be booked by calling 0577 286300 or emailing to opasiena@operalaboratori.com. For more details visit the official website of Opera del Duomo Siena.