The Gothic town hall of the Sienese Republic, still the seat of the city government, with the Museo Civico and its great fresco cycles.
The Palazzo Pubblico was begun in 1297 when the Council of Nine moved the government to the Campo, and the central block was largely finished by about 1310. Its brick facade with travertine-framed windows set the model for civic palaces of Tuscany. Inside, Simone Martini painted the Maestà in 1315, and Ambrogio Lorenzetti painted the Allegory and Effects of Good and Bad Government in 1338-1339. These frescoes stated the Nine's ideals to the council members who met in the room. The building remains the Town Hall of Siena and also houses the Museo Civico.
| Admission | Museo Civico about EUR 10 (~$12); with Torre del Mangia about EUR 15 (~$17); Civitas Senensium combined about EUR 20 (~$23) |
|---|---|
| Hours | Museo Civico daily from 10:00AM with seasonal closing times; confirm at comune.siena.it |
| Address | Piazza del Campo 1, 53100 Siena SI, Italy |
Why it matters
The best-preserved medieval seat of republican government in Italy and a UNESCO-listed monument in the historic centre.
Site facts
- Built
- 1297-1310, extended to 1342
- Architect
- Unknown master builders for the Council of Nine
- Style
- Gothic
- UNESCO listing
- True
Location
Piazza del Campo 1, 53100 Siena SI, Italy
43.3180, 11.3320 View on map
Highlights
- Lorenzetti Good and Bad Government
- Simone Martini Maestà
- Torre del Mangia
Tips for visiting
- Combine with the Torre del Mangia ticket
- Allow 90 minutes inside
Accessibility
Ground floor and lift to the museum; tower not accessible.
Frequently asked questions
Who painted the Good and Bad Government frescoes?
Ambrogio Lorenzetti, in 1338-1339, in the Sala della Pace.