A former medieval pilgrim hospital opposite the Cathedral, now a museum complex with frescoed halls and the Archaeological Museum.
Santa Maria della Scala is one of the oldest hospitals in Europe, active from the early Middle Ages until the late 20th century. It cared for pilgrims on the Via Francigena, the sick and abandoned children. The Sala del Pellegrinaio is painted with 15th-century frescoes, mainly by Domenico di Bartolo, that depict hospital life, charity and the care of foundlings in vivid detail. The complex also contains the Sagrestia Vecchia, the Cappella del Manto, underground passages and the Museo Archeologico Nazionale with Etruscan finds from Siena's territory. The original Fonte Gaia reliefs by Jacopo della Quercia are displayed here after being replaced in the Campo by copies.
| Admission | Adult About EUR 9 (~$10) reported as a standalone ticket; included in the Civitas Senensium combined ticket (about EUR 20 / ~$23) · Child Reduced rates apply |
|---|---|
| Hours | Opening days and times vary by season; reported daily from about 10:00AM to 5:00PM or later. Confirm at santamariadellascala.com |
| Typical visit | 1.5-2 hours |
| Best time | Afternoon after the Cathedral crowds |
| Getting there | Directly opposite the Cathedral facade; 10 minutes on foot from the Campo |
| Address | Piazza del Duomo 1, 53100 Siena SI, Italy |
Good to know
- Best for
- history fans, art lovers, rainy days
Location
Piazza del Duomo 1, 53100 Siena SI, Italy
43.3172, 11.3280 View on map
Highlights
- Pellegrinaio frescoes by Domenico di Bartolo
- Original Fonte Gaia sculptures
- Archaeological Museum with Etruscan collections
- Medieval underground spaces
Tips for visiting
- Free on the first Sunday of each month, including the National Archaeological Museum
- Tickets and information on santamariadellascala.com or tel. +39 0577 228744
- Look for the Pellegrinaio frescoes showing hospital life
When to visit
Mid-afternoon on a weekday.
Accessibility
Lifts and ramps connect most museum levels; some underground and historic areas have steps. Phone +39 0577 228744.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Is Santa Maria della Scala ever free?
Yes, the museum complex is free on the first Sunday of every month.
What was it used for?
It was a pilgrim and charity hospital from the Middle Ages until the 20th century, and is now a museum.