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Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption: Montepulciano's Unfinished Masterpiece

Discover Montepulciano's main cathedral: a blend of Renaissance art, unfinished beauty, and spiritual heritage in the heart of Tuscany.

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The Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption, or Duomo di Montepulciano, stands on Piazza Grande, the heart of Montepulciano. Consecrated in 1712, its unfinished facade and austere interior hold artistic treasures, including a triptych by Taddeo di Bartolo.

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Local tips

  • Take your time to appreciate the contrast between the cathedral's unfinished exterior and its elegant interior.
  • Don't miss the Triptych of the Assumption by Taddeo di Bartolo, a masterpiece of Sienese art.
  • Look for the fragments of the funerary monument of Bartolomeo Aragazzi, dispersed throughout the church.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From anywhere within Montepulciano's historic center, Piazza Grande is easily reached on foot. Be aware that Montepulciano is a hilltop town with steep streets. From Porta al Prato, the main street gradually ascends to Piazza Grande. Allow extra time and wear comfortable shoes.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus at the Montepulciano Autostazione, take a connecting bus (Pollicino) that loops around the town. Several bus lines stop near Piazza Grande. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. A single ticket costs around €1-€2.

  • Parking

    If driving, parking is available outside the city walls. Parcheggio 8 (Il Bersaglio) offers a relatively flat walk to Piazza Grande. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around €1-€2 per hour. Consider using the EasyPark app to pay for parking.

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Discover more about Cathedral Saint Mary Of The Assumption

The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the main Catholic place of worship in Montepulciano, rises from Piazza Grande, marking the highest point in town. Its story is one of ambition and artistic legacy, rooted in a site of religious significance since the 15th century. The cathedral you see today is the third structure to occupy this space. Construction of the present church began in 1586, designed by Ippolito Scalza, but it wasn't consecrated until 1712. The tiered facade, however, was never completed, leaving a rustic, bare-brick exterior that contrasts with the grandeur of its neighbors on Piazza Grande. This unfinished quality speaks to the town's dwindling funds at the time, a poignant reminder that even the grandest visions can be subject to earthly constraints. The sturdy 15th-century bell tower from the original parish church still stands. Inside, the cathedral follows a classic Florentine architectural layout, with a Latin cross plan and three naves divided by pillars and round arches. The interior is characterized by its austere elegance, achieved through the contrast of sharp plaster surfaces and stone block bands. The central nave features a barrel vault, while the lateral naves have cross vaults. The cathedral is home to significant artworks. The most precious is the Triptych of the Assumption by Taddeo di Bartolo, dating back to 1401. This masterpiece is located above the main altar. Also noteworthy is the funerary monument of Bartolomeo Aragazzi, created by Michelozzo between 1427 and 1436. The monument is now divided into fragments, with seven displayed on the church walls. Other works include a small 15th-century panel painting by Sano di Pietro dedicated to the Madonna of the Pillar and a terracotta relief of the Gigli Altar by Andrea Della Robbia from 1512. A visit to the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta offers a glimpse into Montepulciano's history, art, and enduring spirit.

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