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Siena Cathedral - Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta

Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, Siena: A Marvel of Romanesque-Gothic Architecture

The Metropolitan Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta stands as the primary Catholic place of worship in Siena, Tuscany, serving as the episcopal seat of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Siena-Colle di Val d'Elsa-Montalcino. Nestled in the namesake square, within the Terzo di Città, this architectural gem boasts a distinctive Italian Romanesque-Gothic style, marking it as one of the most significant churches of its kind in Italy.

Records before December 1226 are scarce and uncertain, as the Republic of Siena initiated formal registrations of costs and contracts related to the cathedral's construction and decoration. Despite the lack of detailed early information, it is believed that the new cathedral's construction commenced in the mid-12th century on the site of a pre-existing structure, possibly dating back to the 9th century, itself built upon a hypothetical temple of Minerva. In the early Middle Ages, the area housed the bishop's residence until 913, featuring a church facing east, towards the current baptistery. Only in the 13th century was the cathedral transformed into a basilica, with the façade facing west, toward the Hospital of Santa Maria della Scala. However, the completion of the works took place only by the end of the subsequent century.

As per tradition, the consecration of the new cathedral occurred on November 18, 1179, in the presence of Pope Alexander III, a native of Siena. To commemorate this event, the papal banner is displayed in the presbytery every November 18. Nonetheless, construction continued, and from 1196, a special delegation of citizens, the Opera di Santa Maria, oversaw the project. From 1238 to 1285, this body was administered by the monks of San Galgano.

Map: Siena Cathedral - Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta