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Siena Cathedral's Piccolomini Library
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.
- Head into the stunning Siena Cathedral and begin your hunt for artistic treasures by the greats like Michelangelo, Donatello, and Bernini.
- At the Piccolomini Library, witness scenes from the life of Pope Pius II on Pinturicchio's frescoes.
- Armed with an audio guide, explore the Crypt and the Museo dell'Opera, which features sculptures, illuminated manuscripts, and vestments.
- Wind up your experience by climbing up to the terrace of the unfinished façade and catching unmatched panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside.
- Head into the stunning Siena Cathedral and begin your hunt for artistic treasures by the greats like Michelangelo, Donatello, and Bernini.
- At the Piccolomini Library, witness scenes from the life of Pope Pius II on Pinturicchio's frescoes.
- Armed with an audio guide, explore the Crypt and the Museo dell'Opera, which features sculptures, illuminated manuscripts, and vestments.
- Wind up your experience by climbing up to the terrace of the unfinished façade and catching unmatched panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside.
Inclusions
- Entry to Siena Cathedral
- Access to Piccolomini Library
- Audio guide
Exclusions
- Access to Gate of Heaven (roof of the Cathedral)
- Live guide
- Tip: Observe two distinct construction phases on the façade — Giovanni Pisano's Romanesque lower section and Camaino di Crescentino's Gothic upper spires.
- Strict dress code: As the Cathedral is a place of worship, please dress appropriately. Sleeveless shirts are not permitted, and shoulders and knees must be covered.
- The Cathedral is accessible via a dedicated ramp on the building's left-hand side.
- The Museum, Crypt, and Baptistery are not wheelchair accessible.
- Please note there is free entry for children up to 6 years of age, residents of the Municipality of Siena, accredited journalists, disabled people with companion, students of University of Siena and University for Foreigners, Parish groups of the Archdiocese of Siena with a letter from the Parish Priest.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 3 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Uncover the secrets of Siena's Cathedral Complex with the OPA SI Pass, which gives you 3 days to learn about its history and art with an audio guide.
- Step into the Piccolomini Library to discover ancient manuscripts and turn your gaze towards the frescoes that bring to life scenes from Pope Pius II’s journey.
- Explore the Crypt’s brightly colored walls that feature significant scenes of the Crucifixion, Descent of the Christ, and the Entombment.
- Don't miss Donatello's depiction of Madonna and Child at Museo dell'Opera and the biblical narratives on the walls of the Baptistery of San Giovanni.
- Learn more about the cathedral's stunning black and white striped facade, and dive deeper into its history with your immersive audio guide.
- Uncover the secrets of Siena's Cathedral Complex with the OPA SI Pass, which gives you 3 days to learn about its history and art with an audio guide.
- Step into the Piccolomini Library to discover ancient manuscripts and turn your gaze towards the frescoes that bring to life scenes from Pope Pius II’s journey.
- Explore the Crypt’s brightly colored walls that feature significant scenes of the Crucifixion, Descent of the Christ, and the Entombment.
- Don't miss Donatello's depiction of Madonna and Child at Museo dell'Opera and the biblical narratives on the walls of the Baptistery of San Giovanni.
- Learn more about the cathedral's stunning black and white striped facade, and dive deeper into its history with your immersive audio guide.
Inclusions
- 3-day Siena Cathedral Complex OPA SI Pass
- Entry to Siena Cathedral
- Access to Piccolomini Library, Museo dell'Opera, Crypt, Baptistery of San Giovanni & the Terrace
- Access to the uncovered floor until October 16th, 2024
- Audio guide
Exclusions
- Access to Gate of Heaven (roof of the Cathedral)
- Live guide
- Tip: Make sure to catch scenic views of Siena surrounded by the Tuscan rolling hills from the Facciatone viewpoint.
- Strict dress code: As the Cathedral is a place of worship, please dress appropriately. Sleeveless shirts are not permitted, and shoulders and knees must be covered.
- The Cathedral is accessible via a dedicated ramp on the building's left-hand side.
- The Museum, Crypt, and Baptistery are not wheelchair accessible.
- Don’t miss the chance to see the uncovered floor at Siena Cathedral, accessible until October 16th, 2024.
- Please note there is free entry for children up to 6 years of age, residents of the Municipality of Siena, accredited journalists, disabled people with companion, students of University of Siena and University for Foreigners, Parish groups of the Archdiocese of Siena with a letter from the Parish Priest.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 3 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Guided Tours
From Florence: Siena, San Gimignano & Chianti Day Trip with Lunch & Wine Tasting
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION10 hours 30 minutes
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus
START POINT
Central Florence
Meet your fellow travel mates and set off from the heart of Florence by AC coach.
78.3 km
71 minutes
1
Siena
2 attractions
Independently uncover the historic districts of Siena, or go on a guided tour of the city center and optionally its cathedral.
Things to do
1. Banca Monte dei Paschi
Exploring by yourself? Be sure to check out the oldest bank in the world! It was founded 500 years ago and remains one of Italy's largest banking institutions.
2. Siena Cathedral
Nestled in Piazza del Duomo is the magnificent cathedral, a Gothic-Romanesque masterwork. Select the guided tour with entry to admire the mosaic floors and frescoes within.
45.5 km
59 minutes
2
Chianti Classico
1 activities
Drive along the gentle slopes of Chianti and head into a vintage wine estate.
Things to do
1. Vineyard tour & wine tasting
Included in price
Be welcomed to the organic winery with a glass of sparkling and immerse yourself on a tour of its wine cellar.
2. Tuscan lunch
Lunch
Smack on an exquisite 3-course lunch, accompanied by four delightful wines.
46.4 km
55 minutes
3
San Gimignano
1 attractions
At your leisure, traverse this hilltop city, from its old town's 13th-century walls to its skyline filled with high rises.
Things to do
Torre Grossa
Situated in Piazza Duomo, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the tallest of San Gimignano's medieval skyscrapers.
61.1 km
70 minutes
4
END POINT
Central Florence
Indulge your appetite on a trip to Siena, San Gimignano, and Chianti with lunch and wines included!
- Freely roam through Siena by yourself, or choose a guided tour of the city center. Upgrade to enter the iconic Siena Cathedral!
- Drop by a winery nestled in the rolling hills of Chianti and dig into a sumptuous 3-course lunch paired with an array of fine wines.
- Gaze up at the towering structures of San Gimignano as you learn why it's called the 'Manhattan of the Middle Ages'.
- Relax to and from Florence aboard an AC coach. Between April and October, you may also stop at the medieval fortress commune of Monteriggioni!
Indulge your appetite on a trip to Siena, San Gimignano, and Chianti with lunch and wines included!
- Freely roam through Siena by yourself, or choose a guided tour of the city center. Upgrade to enter the iconic Siena Cathedral!
- Drop by a winery nestled in the rolling hills of Chianti and dig into a sumptuous 3-course lunch paired with an array of fine wines.
- Gaze up at the towering structures of San Gimignano as you learn why it's called the 'Manhattan of the Middle Ages'.
- Relax to and from Florence aboard an AC coach. Between April and October, you may also stop at the medieval fortress commune of Monteriggioni!
Inclusions
- Full-day trip around Siena, San Gimignano, and Chianti
- Multilingual assistance on board
- Pick up from Florence
- Round-trip AC coach transfer
- Vineyard visit, wine tasting, and lunch in Chianti
- Guided tour of Siena city center (if selected)
- Guided tour of Siena Cathedral and city center (if selected)
- Tip: It's possible to walk along the 2176-metre perimeter of the second circle of city walls that mark the historical centre of San Gimignano.
- This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers.
- Safety is a priority so the wine tasting experience is restricted for guests under the age of 18 years.
- Guests under the age of 18 years can join the tour if they are each accompanied by at least one adult.
- Please note that the order of visits is subject to change.
- For entry to Siena Cathedral, all guests must wear clothing that covers the knees and shoulders.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Piccolomini Library in a nutshell
Construction era: 1492 - 1502
Materials used: Marble and stone
Notable features: Ceiling frescoes by Pinturicchio, manuscripts, and codices.
Current use: Originally designed to house the manuscript collection of Pope Pius II, the Piccolomini Library now serves as a museum space displaying 15th-century literature and art.
Entrance: Included with your cathedral ticket, the Piccolomini Library is located in the left chapel of the cathedral.
Unique facts:
- The library was commissioned by Francesco Piccolomini Todeschini (later Pope Pius III) as a tribute to his uncle, Enea Silvio Piccolomini (Pope Pius II).
- Despite its name, the library's primary purpose was to showcase the life and achievements of Pope Pius II through Pinturicchio's frescoes.
- Among the library's treasures is a marble sculpture of the Three Graces, a Roman copy of a Hellenistic original.
Your Piccolomini Library tickets explained
Standard entry
OPA SI Pass
Combo tickets
Day trips
Piccolomini Library access
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Why go for it?
Perfect for time-pressed visitors. See the beautiful art and architecture of Siena Duomo's two main highlights - cathedral and library.
Great value for money, granting access to the entire cathedral complex - Piccolomini Library, Baptistery, Crypt, Facciatone & Museum.
Package deals for exploring multiple Tuscan highlights in a day. Wine lovers should consider Brunello di Montalcino & Pienza Pass. Medieval art & architecture fans - San Gimignano Museum Pass.
All-inclusive Tuscan adventure on a hassle-free day trip to Siena, San Gimignano, and Chianti. Priority access to Siena Cathedral & Library with a local guide.
Recommended tickets
- Tickets to Siena Cathedral
- OPA SI Pass to Siena Duomo Complex with Audio Guide
- From Florence: Siena, San Gimignano & Chianti Day Trip with Lunch & Wine Tasting
Highlights of the Piccolomini Library
The Three Graces
In the center of the library stands the magnificent sculpture of the Three Graces, a 2nd-century copy of the original piece. This nude representation of Zeus's daughters was discovered in the 15th century and purchased by Francesco Todeschini Piccolomini (Pope Pius III), from Cardinal Prospero Colonna in Rome. Despite some objections to the nudity, Pope Pius III's love for art ensured its place in the Piccolomini Library as a celebrated work in a secular room.
The Life of Aeneas Silvius Piccolomini
There are ten episodic wall paintings in the Piccolomini Library that depict the life and career of Enea Silvio Bartolomeo Piccolomini, to whom the library is dedicated to. Highlights include his departure for the Council of Basel, his naming as imperial poet by Frederick III, and his elevation to cardinal. The Renaissance-style frescoes, known for their elaborate characters and landscapes, took Pinturicchio seven years to complete, with Raphael, his apprentice, rumored to have modeled for several figures.
Illuminated Codices
The books of Aeneas Piccolomini were never transferred to the library from Rome. Instead, a collection of 15th-century codices and illuminated manuscripts, including hymnals and liturgical books, was brought over. These works, illustrated by artists like Girolamo da Cremona and Liberale da Verona, along with other Sienese artists, provide an extensive overview of 15th-century manuscript illumination—the art of painting manuscripts (typically made of animal skin) with precious metals like silver, gold, and vibrant colors.
Ceiling Frescoes
The vaulted ceiling frescoes has intricate Renaissance reinterpretations of classical themes, using Roman mythological figures like satyrs and sea monsters instead of biblical characters. The panels are bordered with detailed patterns and floral motifs. Notable frescoes are Diana Falling in Love with Endymion and The Rape of Proserpina. Above the bronze door leading to the library, don't miss the striking fresco depicting Francesco Todeschini Piccolomini's coronation as Pope Pius III.
Legacy of Piccolomini Library
Aeneas Silvius Piccolomini was born to a noble yet impoverished family in the Republic of Siena in 1405. He became a trusted servant of Emperor Frederick III and a mediator between him and the Papal State. He was rewarded as being made first the Bishop of Siena and then the pope, naming himself Pope Pius II.
While in Rome, Piccolomini, being a humanist and man of great intellectual curiosity put together a formidable collection of books and manuscripts. His nephew Francesco Todeschini Piccolomini, who was first a cardinal and then became a pope himself, decided to erect a library in 1492 to honor his uncle and preserve the collection of manuscripts. His inspiration comes from the French tradition of building libraries attached to Cathedrals.
The frescoes of the library were completed between 1503 and 1508 by the Umbrian painter Bernardino di Betto, better known as Pinturicchio.
Frequently asked questions about the Piccolomini Library
When is the best time to visit the Piccolomini Library to avoid crowds?
The best time to visit the Piccolomini Library to avoid crowds is early in the morning, right after opening hours, or later in the afternoon, close to closing time. Visiting on weekdays during off-peak tourist seasons (spring and fall) also tends to be less crowded.
Can I visit Piccolomini Library with Siena Cathedral tickets?
Yes, access to the Piccolomini Library comes as a standard feature with entry tickets to the Siena Cathedral.
How much time should I allocate for a thorough visit to the library?
Allocate about 30 to 45 minutes for a thorough visit to the Piccolomini Library. This will give you enough time to appreciate the frescoes, explore the manuscripts, and absorb the historical context of the space, especially if you’re using an audio guide.
Is photography allowed inside the Piccolomini Library, and are there any restrictions on using flash?
Personal photography is generally allowed inside the Piccolomini Library, but flash photography is prohibited to protect the artworks and manuscripts from damage.
What is the significance of the Piccolomini Library?
The Piccolomini Library is significant for preserving the legacies of Pope Pius II and Pope Pius III, two popes of Sienese origin through a collection of manuscripts, as well as its Renaissance frescoes.
Are there guided tours available that focus specifically on the Piccolomini Library?
While there aren’t tours that focus exclusively on the Piccolomini Library, many guided tours of the Siena Cathedral include a visit to the library. These tours often provide insightful commentary on the library’s artwork and history.
Is the Piccolomini Library still in use today?
Yes, the Piccolomini Library is still in use today as a museum and cultural site.
Does the standard entry ticket to the library also include access to the other areas pf Duomo complex as well?
The standard entry ticket to the Piccolomini Library includes access to the Siena Cathedral but does not cover other areas of the Duomo complex. For full access, including the Baptistry, Crypt, and Museo dell’Opera, consider purchasing the OPA SI Pass.
Is the Piccolomini Library accessible for visitors with mobility issues?
Yes, the Piccolomini Library is accessible for visitors with mobility issues. The cathedral complex is designed to accommodate all visitors, including those with disabilities.
Can I actually sit and study the manuscripts or other literature available at the library?
Unfortunately, visitors are not allowed to sit and study the manuscripts or other literature in the Piccolomini Library. The manuscripts are primarily for display, and the library functions as a museum rather than a reading room.
