Palazzo Chigi-Saracini: A Gothic Jewel in Siena

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Explore Siena's Palazzo Chigi-Saracini: a Gothic masterpiece with art, music, and history at the heart of the city.

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Palazzo Chigi-Saracini

Palazzo Chigi-Saracini, a stunning Gothic palace on Siena's Via di Città, is home to the Accademia Musicale Chigiana. Built in the 12th century, it showcases a curved facade and houses a rich collection of art and musical instruments.

A brief summary to Palazzo Chigi-Saracini

Via di Città, 89, Siena, Province of Siena, 53100, IT

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Palazzo Chigi-Saracini.

Book guided tours in advance, especially for English tours, to fully appreciate the palace's history and art collections.
Check the Accademia Musicale Chigiana's schedule for concerts and events to enhance your visit.
Explore nearby attractions like the Siena Cathedral and Piazza del Campo to complete your Siena experience.

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Getting There

Walking

Palazzo Chigi-Saracini is located on Via di Città, in the heart of Siena's historic center, making it easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From Piazza del Campo, walk north along Via di Città; the palace will be on your right, about a 5-minute walk. The street curves, and the palace follows the curve.
Public Transport

If arriving by bus from outside the city center, the closest bus stops are along Viale Tozzi or Piazza Gramsci. From either stop, walk along Via Banchi di Sopra, then turn onto Via di Città. The palace will be on your left, a short walk from the intersection. A one-way bus ticket costs €1.50.
Taxi

Taxis can drop you off near Piazza Indipendenza or Piazza del Mercato, a few minutes' walk from Palazzo Chigi-Saracini. From Piazza Indipendenza, walk south along Via delle Terme, then turn right onto Via di Città. From Piazza del Mercato, walk north along Via Salicotto, then turn left onto Via di Città. A taxi ride from the Siena train station to the city center typically costs between €7 and €10. Starting fare is about €3.40, plus €1.10 per kilometer.

Discover more about Palazzo Chigi-Saracini

Palazzo Chigi-Saracini, located on Via di Città, stands as one of Siena's most captivating medieval palaces. Originally constructed in the 12th century by the Marescotti family, the palace has evolved through different owners and architectural styles, resulting in its unique character. The palace is now home to the Accademia Musicale Chigiana, founded in 1932 by Count Guido Chigi-Saracini, adding a vibrant cultural dimension to its historical significance.The palace's exterior is distinguished by its curved Gothic facade, adorned with trefoil windows displaying the Marescotti family crest. Over the centuries, the Piccolomini-Mandoli and Saracini families contributed to the palace's transformation, incorporating Renaissance and later architectural elements. The interior houses an impressive collection of over 12,000 artworks from the Renaissance to the 18th century, including works by masters like Botticelli, Sodoma, and Beccafumi. The Chigiana Academy library holds over 70,000 pieces of literature, including rare books and musical instruments.Visitors can explore the palace's museum, attend concerts and events hosted by the Accademia Musicale Chigiana, and admire the blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles. Guided tours offer insights into the palace's history, art collections, and musical heritage.