The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta better known as Pienza Cathedral is in the city centre of Pienza next to Palazzo Borgia and Palazzo Piccolomini. The complex is located on the ancient Pieve di Santa Maria. It was built by Bernardo Rossellino commissioned by Pio II. In many ways, the structure is inspired by the Gothic lines of the Franciscan churches even if in the ensemble it is of Renaissance character.
The tripartite facade is in travertine with four pillars that correspond to the internal naves. The coat of arms with the emblem of the Holy See of Pio II Piccolomini dominates the Cathedral. The bell tower with four bells is very beautiful. The interior is in Gothic style and the apse is divided into three chapels.
Works of art
The Cathedral dedicated to the Assumption collects various works of art painted by the most famous Sienese painters of the time: “ Madonna and Child with Saints Antonio Abate, Bernardino, Francesco and Sabina” by Giovanni di Paolo; “Madonna Enthroned with Child among Saints Bartholomew, Catherine, Lucy and Matthew” by Matteo di Giovanni; “Altar of the Blessed Sacrament” by Bernardo Rossellino; “Assumption of the Virgin among the Saints Agata, Callisto, Caterina and Pio” by Lorenzo di Pietro (called Vecchietta); “Madonna and Child with Saints Anna, Filippo, Giacomo and Maddalena” by Sano di Pietro; “Madonna Enthroned with Child among Saints Agostino, Girolamo, Martino and Nicola” by Matteo di Giovanni.
Where: Piazza Pio II, 2, 53026 Pienza.
Opening time: from 8.30 am to 1.00 pm and from 2.30 pm to 7.00 pm.
Mass: Sundays and public holidays 11.30 am.
More information on the Cathedral of Pienza can be found on Wikipedia
