The Duomo in Siena is my favourite church in Italy. I had no idea what to expect when I entered the church for the first time many years ago. It is quite dark inside and it took a while for my eyes to adjust. Slowly the striped interior appeared in front of me and I was transfixed. Anyone who knows me knows that I don’t have a religious bone in my body, and won’t be acquiring any soon, but I can still appreciate the magnificence of these buildings. I marvel at the brilliance of the people who created such beauty. I may question the reasons why they did it, but I am glad they did.
the facade of the Duomo
incredible detail on the facade
detail on the facade
Pisano's beautiful carvings
the amazing interior
It is difficult to get an idea of the size of the church with a photo – it is huge. This photo is just a central view. Flash and tripods are not allowed and I am not an expert in setting up these shots.
being watched from above
you can't escape - they are on the other side as well
I love the stripes
inside the dome
inside the dome
looking up
standing quietly in the dark
The finest carving in the interior is Nicola Pisano’s Pulpit, carved between the end of 1265 and November 1268. The octagonal pulpit is supported by 9 columns and is beautifully decorated. My flash went off accidentally and I was shooed away before I could get a better photo.
the marble pulpit
The marble mosaic floor of the cathedral was uncovered when I visited. This only happens for a few weeks a year, so I was very lucky. Covering the entire cathedral floor, the mosiacs are into 56 panels of various sizes containing representations of Sibyls, scenes from the bible, virtues and allegories. Some have been restored but all retain their original characteristics. It is worth visiting the cathedral just to see the floor.
the Sienese she-wolf
Leopoldo Maccari created this panel of the Sienese she-wolf surrounded by the symbols of the allied cities in the 14th century. It is original and spectacular.
detail of the panel
and more
detail of the allegory of the Hill of Knowledge
This is part of a panel called The Hill of Knowledge, where after lots of lessons are learned in life, it is decided that wealth is not important and this chap is throwing his money and jewels away. I’m sorry about the glare and the shadow of my hands holding the camera.
If you go to Siena, please don’t leave without seeing the Duomo.
PS
I’ve been back and I got some more photos.
under the dome
the steps to the pulpit
the pulpit
more of the amazing mosiac floor