The floor of the Cathedral of Siena, the “most beautiful…, grand and magnificent“, as defined by Vasari as he admired it, will be completely visible from August 18 to October 27, 2013.
The floor of the cathedral is truly amazing and the possibility to admire it in all its glory is worth alone the trip to Siena!
Created between 1369 and 1547, the floor is made up of 56 scenes carved or inset in marble by some of the greatest Sienese artists of the period (the only exception is work by Pinturicchio, who was from Umbria). A magnificent work as much as it is complex: the floor was in fact only fully completed in’ the 1800s, after over 600 years.
To learn a bit more about the pavement and the Cathedral of Siena, I suggest you read this article on the Siena section of our site.
Also up until October 27, you can enjoy a special visit of the cathedral from above called “The Gate of Heaven,” which is exclusive access to the higher levels of the Cathedral. The tour is accompanied by a guide, so booking is required. You can read more information about costs and contacts for booking here as well as see a short video of the sights you’ll see.
During the unveiling, guided tours of the pavement and of the “Gate of Heaven” will also be available at night! The two itineraries will also be offered every Saturday from August 24 through October 26, 2013, from 8pm to midnight.
Visits are offered by specialized guides and in various languages. You can book by phone at +39 0577 286300 (Monday-Friday 9am-5pm local time) or email at: opasiena@operalaboratori.com
Visit the official website http://www.operaduomo.siena.it/ for additional details.
About Cristina Romeo
Born in Florence at the end of the fabulous '70s, Cristina has always lived in the famous "cradle of the Renaissance". She's in love with her homeland, but also enjoys traveling and discovering new places. Cristina is mum to a lovely little girl, to whom she hopes to pass on all the passion and love of our precious, wonderful Tuscany.
