Beneath the grandeur of Siena Cathedral lies a hidden gem—the Crypt, a fascinating space shrouded in mystery.
Rediscovered in 1999 during an evacuation project after centuries of obscurity, this underground treasure reveals stunning 13th-century frescoes and architectural marvels.
The Crypt was filled with dirt and debris sometime during the early 15th century, and people managing the Cathedral added more debris in the first half of the 18th century.
While medieval sources had suggested a crypt’s existence, its true state of preservation remained unknown for centuries.
Interestingly, no human had seen these frescoes for more than 700 years.
The Crypt offers a rare glimpse into Siena’s artistic and spiritual heritage, showcasing vibrant frescoes that narrate biblical stories and provide insight into the city’s medieval past.
Must Know: Siena Cathedral’s opening hours, how to reach, and what to see
Reasons to Visit the Crypt
We think the Siena Cathedral’s Crypt is worth visiting for four reasons – it’s a glimpse into the glorious past of Siena, the Biblical frescos are fantastic, offering both art value and historical value and finally, they also provide architectural insights.
A Glimpse into the Past
The Crypt’s rediscovery offered a remarkable glimpse into 13th-century Sienese art.
The walls and pillars of this vaulted space are decorated with a cycle of frescoes that have survived in remarkably vivid color.
These paintings, created in the second half of the 13th century, cover an expansive 180 square meters of wall surface.
Biblical Narratives in Art
The frescoes in the Crypt depict 45 captivating scenes from both the Old and New Testaments, providing a visual narrative of key biblical events.
These scenes are framed by elaborate geometric patterns and other artistic embellishments that enhance their beauty and significance.
Where are the Masterpieces
1. The Annunciation – Sienese painter, active in the last quarter of the 13th century
2. The nativity of Jesus – Sienese painter, active in the last quarter of the 13th century
3. Rest during the flight into Egypt – Sienese painter, active in the last quarter of the 13th century
4. The deposition from the cross – Sienese painter, active in the last quarter of the 13th century
Must Know: Tips for memorable visit to Siena Cathedral
Crucial Art Historical Evidence
The frescoes in the Crypt are not just aesthetically pleasing but also hold significant art-historical value.
Their discovery has expanded our understanding of 13th-century wall painting, offering crucial evidence about the birth and early development of the Sienese school of painting.
Architectural Insights
The Crypt’s excavation has also revealed valuable architectural finds that complement the artistic treasures.
Structural elements in the Crypt still bear abundant decorations, providing a unique perspective on painted architecture.
The Crypt’s connection to the foundations of the church’s apse has shed light on the different phases of the Cathedral’s construction and helped clarify some of the mysteries surrounding its architectural history.
Timings of the Crypt
| Dates | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| 1 Mar – 3 Nov 2024 | 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| 4 Nov – 24 Dec 2024 | 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM |
| 26 Dec 2024 – 7 Jan 2025 | 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
The last entry is always 30 minutes before closure.
How to Visit the Crypt
The Siena Cathedral crypt is included in the OPA SI Pass, which grants access to most of the Cathedral complex’s sites.
The Crypt is open from 10 am to 7 pm from 1 March to 3 November.