Basilica Cateriniana San Domenico
1 Piazza S. Domenico Siena
The Basilica Cateriniana San Domenico is one of the most important churches in Siena. Construction began in 1226 and continued until 1265, led by the Dominican Order on land donated by the Malavolti family. The church was later expanded in the 14th century, giving it the Gothic appearance it has today. Over the centuries, it has suffered damage from fires, earthquakes, and military use, and has been repaired and restored several times.
The basilica is closely connected to Saint Catherine of Siena, one of Italy’s most important religious figures. Born in 1347, Catherine became a member of the Dominican Third Order. She is best known for her writings, letters, and spiritual guidance, which had a major influence on the Catholic Church. In recognition of her theological insight and lifelong devotion, she was later declared a Doctor of the Church.
After Saint Catherine's death in 1380, her head and a finger were returned to Siena and are now kept in the basilica. These relics continue to draw pilgrims and visitors from around the world, making the church a major site of devotion. Inside, the church contains notable artworks, including frescoes by Giovanni Antonio Bazzi, also known as Sodoma, which depict scenes from Saint Catherine’s life.
See also:
Piazza del Campo
The Piazza del Campo is the main public square in Siena and one of the most famous medieval squares in Europe. Since the 13th century, it has been a central gathering place for the city’s residents. The square is also central to Siena’s cultural and religious traditions. The Palio di Siena, a horse race held twice a year, often begins with a blessing at the Siena Cathedral and is tied to the city’s patron saints.
Siena Cathedral
The Siena Cathedral was built between the 12th and 14th centuries on the site of an older church. It was originally planned to be one of the largest churches in Europe, but these expansion plans were halted by the Black Death in 1348. Today, the Cathedral is dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.
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Images by Luca Aless, licensed under CC BY‑SA 3.0 — via Wikimedia Commons.