Palazzo Pubblico, Siena
Toscana
Palazzo Pubblico, also known as Palazzo Comunale, is a striking Gothic palace located in Siena's central Piazza del Campo. Constructed primarily between 1297 and 1310 under the Republic of Siena's Government of Nine, it has continuously served as the city's administrative heart. The palace is renowned for its slender Torre del Mangia, built between 1325 and 1348, which crowns the complex with a travertine top designed by Lippo Memmi. Architecturally, the building features a façade with four orders in the central body and three in the lateral wings, showcasing typical Sienese Gothic mullioned windows with distinctive caditoie used historically for defense. Inside, the Museo Civico houses exceptional artworks from Siena's golden age, including Ambrogio Lorenzetti's famous fresco cycle "Allegory and Effects of Good and Bad Government," one of the most significant secular 14th-century European paintings. Other masterpieces include works by Simone Martini, Duccio di Buoninsegna, Sodoma, and Beccafumi. The palace also contains the Sala del Consiglio Comunale and a loggia overlooking the southern side. The adjacent Cappella di Piazza, built in 1352 as thanks for the end of the Black Death, adds to the site's historical depth. Today, Palazzo Pubblico remains the seat of Siena's municipal administration, blending civic function with cultural heritage.
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Tip: Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures, especially in spring and autumn. Purchase tickets in advance for the Museo Civico to ensure entry, particularly to see Lorenzetti's frescoes. Check the official website for temporary closures, such as the Torre del Mangia. Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and groups. Guided tours can enrich the experience by providing historical context and art interpretation.
Interesting facts
- •The Torre del Mangia was designed to be exactly the same height as Siena Cathedral's dome, symbolizing the balance of religious and civil power.
- •Ambrogio Lorenzetti's frescoes inside Palazzo Pubblico are among the earliest secular artworks depicting political themes in Europe.
- •The palace's façade features defensive caditoie (machicolations) from which stones could be dropped to deter attackers during civil unrest.
- •The Cappella di Piazza was built as a votive offering after the Black Death plague ended in 1348.
- •The Palazzo has hosted Siena's municipal government continuously for over 700 years.
History
Palazzo Pubblico's origins date back to the late 13th century when the Government of Nine acquired adjacent buildings to establish a neutral seat for Siena's administration.
Construction began around 1297, with completion by 1310, when the Government moved in.
The Torre del Mangia was added between 1325 and 1348, becoming a symbol of the city.
Throughout the 14th century, expansions included the addition of the second-floor loggia and the Cappella di Piazza in 1352, commemorating the end of the plague.
In the 17th century, the final floors and bell tower were added, maintaining the Gothic style.
The palace has continuously served civic functions and now also houses the Museo Civico, preserving Siena's artistic heritage.
Place Guide
Sala del Mappamondo (Hall of the Globe)14th century
This grand hall was used for government meetings and houses important frescoes including political allegories by Ambrogio Lorenzetti.
Torre del Mangia1325-1348
The slender bell tower adjacent to the palace, built between 1325 and 1348, offers panoramic views of Siena and the Tuscan countryside. Its travertine crown was designed by Lippo Memmi.
Museo CivicoMedieval to 19th century
Located on the first floor, the museum preserves Siena's artistic treasures from the 13th to 19th centuries, including works by Simone Martini, Duccio di Buoninsegna, Sodoma, and Beccafumi.
Cappella di Piazza1352
A marble chapel built in 1352 facing the palace and tower, dedicated to the Virgin Mary as thanks for the end of the Black Death in Siena.
Contact
Phone: 0577 292111
