Things to Do at Santa Maria della Scala

Complete Guide to Santa Maria della Scala in Siena

About Santa Maria della Scala

Santa Maria Della Scala in Siena showcases authentic historical architecture and cultural artifacts preserved through careful restoration efforts. Admission ranges from €8 (9 USD) to €22 (25 USD) depending on guided tour options and seasonal pricing variations. The site features original construction materials and period-appropriate furnishings that provide genuine insights into local heritage and traditional craftsmanship. Visit during weekday mornings when crowds are smaller and lighting is optimal for photography The experience combines educational value with atmospheric details where weathered stone surfaces warm under morning sunlight while visitors explore spaces that have witnessed centuries of local history and cultural development.

What to See & Do

Pellegrinaio Hall

The main pilgrims' hall with striking 15th-century frescoes depicting hospital life, charity work, and religious scenes - these are genuinely moving and incredibly well-preserved

Archaeological Museum

Underground Etruscan and Roman remains, including tunnels and artifacts that give you a sense of Siena's ancient layers beneath the medieval city

Cappella del Sacro Chiodo

A small chapel housing what's believed to be a nail from the True Cross, with beautiful Renaissance decorations and an intimate, contemplative atmosphere

Bambinus Exhibition

A fascinating collection of medieval and Renaissance artifacts related to childhood and motherhood, reflecting the hospital's role in caring for abandoned children

Santa Caterina della Notte Oratory

A quiet find where St. Catherine of Siena used to pray at night, with atmospheric lighting that makes the frescoed walls feel almost alive

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Generally open daily 10:30am-6:30pm, though hours can vary seasonally and some sections might close earlier - worth checking their website before your visit

Tickets & Pricing

Around €9-11 for adults, with discounts for students and seniors. Combined tickets with other Siena museums are available and often worth it if you're planning to see multiple sites

Best Time to Visit

Early morning or late afternoon tend to be quieter, and the lighting in the frescoed halls is particularly beautiful in the late afternoon

Suggested Duration

Plan for at least 2-3 hours if you want to see the main areas properly, though you could easily spend a full morning or afternoon here

Getting There

You literally can't miss it when visiting the Duomo-the large medieval building sits directly across from the cathedral's main entrance. Coming from Piazza del Campo? Expect a 5-minute uphill walk through the historic center. The entrance on Piazza del Duomo is clearly marked, and you'll usually find a small crowd of people deciding which museum to tackle first.

Things to Do Nearby

Siena Cathedral (Duomo)
The striking black and white striped cathedral right across the piazza, with its incredible marble floors and Piccolomini Library

Duomo Museum
Houses the cathedral's original artworks including Duccio's massive Maestà altarpiece - genuinely one of the most important medieval paintings you'll ever see

Facciatone
The remains of what would have been a massive cathedral expansion, now offering panoramic views over Siena's rooftops

Pinacoteca Nazionale
Siena's main art gallery with an excellent collection of Sienese Renaissance paintings, about a 10-minute walk away

Piazza del Campo
The famous shell-shaped main square where the Palio horse race happens, just a short downhill walk from the cathedral area

Tips & Advice

The underground archaeological areas can be quite cool even in summer, so bring a light jacket

Don't rush through the Pellegrinaio - the frescoes tell detailed stories and reward close looking

The museum shop actually has some interesting books about medieval hospital life and Sienese history that you won't find elsewhere

If you're visiting multiple sites around the Duomo, consider the combined ticket - it usually saves money and lets you take your time across several days