Duomo - Siena - TravBuddy

The Siena Duomo is said to be the most beautiful religious building in Tuscany (though it's truly amazing I do not agree completely, as I'm in love with Florence). But any way, the duomo is indeed one of the most unique churches (domes) I have ever seen. It has a very special atmosphere hanging around it, and the stripe-covered walls make it all pretty authentic.

The building is Gothic and the construction of it started in the 12th century. Yet it took the Italians over 200 years to finish their masterpiece. Most remarkable are the special marble floors, the facade and its decorations, the chapel, and the fresco's in the library (dating from the 16th century).

Many of the artworks in the Dome are copies, since the originals are sheltered in the Museo dell'Opera del Duoma (the dome museum, underneath the cathedral). One can admire the golden and silver artworks from the dome here as well.

I feel like one cannot visit Siena without visiting the Duomo, and taking some time for it. The building is of a priceless value and the sight of it will sure astonish you. As Eric suggested, a small entrance fee is asked for entering the dome (a couple of Euros, not much). But pay it, the duomo surely is worth some money.

The duomo is probably the main sight to see in Siena. The interior of the cathedral is intricately decorated with striped marble columns. Surrounding the tops of the columns are the carved heads of 172 popes, which is both interesting and slightly creepy. While the interior is nice, I think the most impressive part of the duomo is its amazing facade. The gothic looking design is even more impressive and colorful at sunset, when the shadows play over the detailed carvings.