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University of Siena - San Niccolò Complex

Explore a historic university complex in Siena, where Gothic and Renaissance architecture meets a vibrant academic community.

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The San Niccolò complex, part of the University of Siena, blends historical architecture with a vibrant academic atmosphere. Once a psychiatric hospital, it now houses departments and laboratories, offering a unique glimpse into Siena's past and present.

A brief summary to University of Siena - University Complex San Niccolò

  • Monday 7:45 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 7:45 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 7:45 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 7:45 am-8 pm
  • Friday 7:45 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Explore the complex's architecture, which showcases a blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles.
  • Visit the bookstore within the complex to browse a wide selection of Italian literature.
  • Check the university's website for guided tours that delve into the history of the institution.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Piazza del Campo, walk north along Via Banchi di Sotto. Continue onto Via di Città, then turn right onto Via Sallustio Bandini. Turn left onto Via Roma; the San Niccolò complex will be on your right. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    From the Siena train station, take bus lines 3, 8, 10, 17 or 77 to Piazza del Sale. From Piazza del Sale, walk to Viale Tozzi/Piazza Gramsci and take the Pollicino bus. Get off at the Via Roma stop. The San Niccolò complex will be a short walk away. A one-way bus ticket costs €1.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from the Siena train station or Piazza Gramsci. A taxi ride to the University Complex San Niccolò will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is €7-€10.

  • Driving

    From the Siena Ovest exit of the A1 highway, follow signs towards Siena. As you approach the city center, parking options include Stadio Fortezza, Il Campo, and Il Duomo. Hourly parking rates range from €2.00, with daily rates reaching €35.00. From the parking area, follow walking directions to Via Roma.

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Discover more about University of Siena - University Complex San Niccolò

The University of Siena's San Niccolò complex, located on Via Roma, is a captivating blend of history and modern academia. Originally established in 1240, the University of Siena is one of Italy's oldest and most respected institutions. The San Niccolò complex itself has a rich history, having been converted from a former psychiatric hospital. Inaugurated as a psychiatric hospital in 1818 within the former monastery of San Niccolò, the building initially housed 34 patients. Over time, it expanded to include various pavilions dedicated to different tasks, evolving into a village-like structure that could accommodate over 2,000 patients per year. The complex even featured an industrial community where patients were involved in weaving and knitting. Today, the San Niccolò complex is home to the Department of Social, Political, and Cognitive Sciences (DISPOC), as well as administrative offices, student services, laboratories, and faculty studios. Visitors can explore the stunning Gothic and Renaissance architecture while experiencing the energy of students engaged in their studies. The complex also houses a bookstore with a wide collection of literature. The blending of the building's historical significance with its current academic use creates a unique and stimulating environment.

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