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Pienza, is a lovely town near Siena in a panoramic position overlooking the Orcia Valley,
It is a jewel of art originated from the transformation of the old castle
of Corsignano for the pleasure of Pope Enea Silvio Piccolomini in 1558,
who was born there. It was built by Rossellino (1459 - 62 ). It is a
rare example of Renaissance town building. Thanks to
its position, Pienza was of great importance during the Middle Ages.
Around the central square of Pienza are the most important buildings: the
Cathedral, "Palazzo Piccolomini", "Palazzo Borgia" and "Palazzo dei
Priori".
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The Duomo of Pienza stands in the central Piazza. It has
single nave and lateral aisles and a travertine facade which is a splendid
specimen of the architecture of the transiction from the Gothic to the
Renaissance.
It contains several masterpieces by the most famous Sienese painters:
Giovanni di Paolo: Madonna and child with Saints.
Matteo di Giovanni: Madonna on the throne with child and Saints.
Lorenzo di Pietro (nicknamed Vecchietta): Assumption.
Sano di Pietro: Madonna with child and Saints.
Matteo di Giovanni: Madonna on the throne with child and Saints.
Of note is the beautiful altar attributed to the architect and sculptor "Rossellino",
as well as the nice baptismal font.
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Palazzo Piccolomini: rensembles somewhat Palazzo Rucellai
in Florence, it once was the Pope's residence. Nowadays, it hosts and
preserves many objects of the Piccolomini Family. The courtyard has fine
composite coulumns on which rests the internal facade with three loggias
all around, one above the other and a roof-garden from where a very pretty
view can be admired. Inside the Palace are the somptuos Hall of Arms, the library, the studio and the
bedroom of PIO II. In the piazza there is
the beautiful travertine well by
the Florentine school.
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Palazzo Borgia: The Palace is the seat of the "Museo
Diocesano", one of the most important museums in the province of Siena for
the artistic treasures and numerous pieces on display. It preserves, in
its 11 rooms, many works of the Sienese school, by P.Lorenzetti, Bartolo
di Fredi, Vecchietta and Luca Signorelli. It also exhibits illuminated
manuscripts by Sano di Pietro, Flemish tapestries, silverware and finally
the cape of PIO II, an extraordinary sample of quality and richness of
particulars.
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Palazzo Comunale: ( Town Hall)
Built in 1462, characterised by an ample portico with travertine Ionic
colums, today it is the seat of the local government.
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The Church of San Francesco:
It is one of the most ancient Franciscan buildings in Italy, dating back
to the XIII century.
On the walls is the story of St. Francis of Assisi. Notable works of art
by Luca Signorelli and of other Sienese painters.
The streets are filled with craft shops,
restaurants serving typical Tuscan fare, shops selling “pecorino di
Pienza” sheep’s milk cheese and wine, of course.
In the surrounding area:
Pieve di Corsignano:
Outside of the historical center of Pienza, is the Romanesque parish
church, characterised by a cylindric tower and a decorated fortress with
mythological and fantastic themes.
The Castle of Spedaletto:
Just 9 km. from Pienza. This medieval fortress is an important example of
a many towered and fortified castle. Inside there is a small church with
gothic portal and a nice rose window .
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Pienza events and festivals : |
May = Passing of "Mille Miglia" historical car race.
July = Teatro Povero di Monticchiello; theatre spectacle, ideated, written
and produced by the people of the village of Monticchiello.
September = Festa del Cacio (Pecorin sheep-cheese feast); Gastronomic
festival. It is possible to taste the famous "Pecorino" cheese of Pienza
and other local products.
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