Places of worship

Siena is, in popular imagination, one of the most important medieval towns in Tuscany, but too often the churches of this wonderful city are underrated. 

The churches of Siena are jewels of culture and wonder: many of them date back to the medieval period and, despite modifications undertaken in subsequent periods, they still retain their original elegant authority. Here are some suggestions for visiting the most beautiful and ancient churches in Siena. 

All the churches to visit in and around Siena

From the best-known buildings such as Siena Cathedral to lesser-known abbeys such as the Abbey of San Galgano, the Siena area has a rich religious tradition that dates back centuries. Let’s discover some of the most characteristic churches in and around Siena:

• Siena Cathedral  is one of the most important religious buildings in the city. The entire complex represents one of the most significant examples of Italian Roman-Gothic style. Built in the 13th century, it has the typical Latin cross structure. The imposing façade is built entirely of white marble with streaks of green and black marble and is adorned with rich sculptural decorations. Inside, one can admire important works of art by great artists such as Donatello, Bernini, Michelangelo and many others. 
• Abbey of San Galgano: not far from Siena you can admire this imposing medieval abbey built by Cistercian monks around 1200. Today, the Abbey of San Galgano enchants anyone who visits because, being roofless, it looks like an open-air church. 
• Baptistery of San Giovanni: this magnificent religious building is the meeting point of the greatest Renaissance artists. Inside, you can admire frescoes and artworks of great importance by Lorenzo di Pietro, Jacopo della Quercia, Donatello, Ghiberti and many others. A unique architectural and religious construction. 
• Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore: South of Siena, you can admire the imposing Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore, surrounded by the beautiful Sienese hills and the striking natural landscape of the Crete Senesi. Its construction dates back to medieval times when a young Sienese nobleman decided to abandon the wealth and luxury of his family and move here in search of a solitary life. Still today, the Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore is the perfect place for those in search of tranquillity and silence. 

When planning a weekend or holiday in this area, the Churches of Siena are a must-see: located around the main city, they can create magical atmospheres, melancholic landscapes and indelible memories.