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The mosaic floor of the Siena Cathedral
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Siena Cathedral Floor | Quick facts
Constructed during: 14th Century - 19th Century
Materials used: Marble and stone
Floor area: 14,000 square feet
Notable features: 56 panels of marble inlays
Access: You can see the uncovered floor with your Siena Cathedral tickets. Expect higher prices during the unveiling period.
When can you see the uncovered floor of Siena Cathedral?
You can see the uncovered floor of Siena Cathedral every year from August 18 until October 16, 2024. The opening hours are as follows:
- Monday to Saturday:
Cathedral, Baptistery, and Crypt: 10am – 7pm; Museo dell’Opera: 9:30am – 7:30pm; Oratory of San Bernardino: 1:30pm – 7pm - Sunday (only during uncovering): Cathedral: 9:30am – 6pm; Baptistery and Crypt: 10am – 7pm; Museo dell’Opera: 9:30am – 7:30pm; Oratory of San Bernardino: 1:30pm – 7pm
Last admission: Half an hour before museum closing time
Note: Opening times may vary due to religious services.
Check complete Siena Cathedral opening hoursHow are the panels on the Siena Cathedral floor arranged?
- The marble mosaics almost cover the entire flooring of the Siena Cathedral. The nave contains 15 panels in total with themes of Classical antiquity and the Pagan world.
- They are divided into three sections by two rows of columns running down the nave, with the Ten Sibyls panels occupying the side aisles. Toward the transept, we find much larger rectangular panels and a hexagonal centerpiece.
- The transept is noted for its departure from classical themes, containing scenes mostly from the Old and New Testaments.
- The hexagonal piece in the center is called The Lives of Elijah and Ahab created by Domenico Beccafumi between 1518 and 1547 and is the largest panel in the Cathedral.
- Moses on Mount Sinai and Moses Striking Water from the Rock are also stupendous mosaics that are located towards the altar.
Must-see panels of the Siena Cathedral floor
The Ten Sibyls
On either side of the nave, you’ll find the Ten Sibyls—female seers from ancient times who prophesized future events. The panels depict Sibyls from various regions, including the Delphic, Erythraean, Phrygian, Persian, Hellespontine, and Libyan Sibyls. Each is set in white marble against a black background, identified by clear inscriptions, with smaller panels inscribing their prophecy of Christ's coming.
The Stories of Moses
This series, located beneath the high altar, illustrates key moments from Moses' life. Designed by Domenico Beccafumi (1515-1519), the panels include "Moses Makes Water Flow from the Rock" and "Stories of Moses on Mount Sinai." These scenes emphasize Moses as a pivotal prophet and leader who guided the Israelites and received divine commandments, underscoring his role in salvation history.
The Sacrifice of Elijah
Designed by Beccafumi and positioned in front of the high altar, this panel depicts the prophet Elijah's sacrifice, a scene symbolizing themes of sacrifice that prefigure Christ's own sacrifice. Central to the floor's iconography, it illustrates the continuity from Old Testament prophecy to the New Testament, emphasizing Elijah's significance in the overarching narrative of salvation.
The Wheel of Fortune
The last panel before the transept is the "Wheel of Fortune" (1372), an allegory of fate's capriciousness. It depicts a large wheel, possibly turned by Fortuna, with a king on a throne and three figures in varying states of distress, symbolizing the phases of power: "I will reign, I reign, I have reigned, I am without a kingdom." Surrounding the wheel are four hexagons featuring Roman philosophers—Epictetus, Aristotle, Euripides, and Seneca—each offering a prophecy of the future.
The Four Virtues
The Four Virtues panel, created in 1406, is a significant work of art on the floor of Siena Cathedral, depicting the cardinal virtues—Fortitude, Justice, Prudence, and Temperance—along with Mercy. Crafted using the marble commesso technique, the panel showcases vibrant contrasts and intricate designs, reflecting the skill of Sienese artists. Commissioned during Siena's artistic and cultural peak, the panel is also a moral reminder, embodying medieval teachings and making it a must-see for visitors.
The She-wolf of Siena
The second panel on the nave, following Hermes Trismegistus, is the famous She-wolf Suckling the Twins. The center of the panel consists of a large female wolf with two human children suckling at her and the inscription 'Sena' scrawled across it. It is a depiction of the Roman myth of Romulus and Remus, who may have also been interpreted as Ascanio and Senio, the founders of the city of Siena. It is surrounded by smaller roundels containing the emblems of important cities in the Tuscan region and Italy such as the lion of Florence, the elephant of Rome, and the hare of Pisa.
Slaughter of the Innocents
In the lower half of the left transept, Benvenuto di Giovanni’s Expulsion of Herod portrays Herod Antipas's defeat as divine retribution for John the Baptist's death. Next is Matteo di Giovanni’s Slaughter of the Innocents (1481), depicting Herod the Great’s order to kill all children under two in Bethlehem, which some interpret as symbolizing the 1480 Turkish massacre at Otranto. This panel is one of four by the artist, with three others in Sienese churches.
History of the Siena Cathedral floor in a nutshell
The magnificent floor was constructed between the 14th and 19th centuries. The earliest panels to be created were the Wheel of Fortune (1372), the She-wolf of Siena (1373), and the Four Virtues (1406). The preliminary outlines and designs of the panels were provided by Sienese painters that were then executed by craftsmen. Superintendents like Domenico di Niccolò dei Cori (between 1413 and 1423) and his successor Paolo di Martino (between 1424 and 1426) oversaw the construction of the cathedral's floor and worked on the panels themselves.
The mosaic floor made tremendous progress under Alberto Aringhieri, who was appointed in 1480. The basic work for ten sibyls was created during this time (1481 to 1483). Many panels were created even in the 16th century by Domenico Beccafumi, a renowned Sienese artist. Even the Umbrian artist Pinturicchio who was responsible for the frescoes in the Piccolomini Library was involved in the creation of the floor during that time.
Siena Cathedral floor's impact on art & artists
The Siena Cathedral floor has had a profound impact on Renaissance art and architecture, serving as a benchmark for subsequent works. Its intricate design and use of the marble commesso and graffito techniques inspired many artists and craftsmen during the Renaissance and beyond.
Giorgio Vasari, a prominent 16th-century artist and historian, praised the floor as the “most beautiful, largest, and most magnificent floor ever made.” His admiration helped solidify its status as a significant work of art, influencing artists to explore similar techniques and themes in their own works.
Artists such as Domenico Beccafumi, who perfected the marble inlay technique, were directly influenced by the floor's design. His ability to create chiaroscuro effects through marble inlay set a standard for future artists, showcasing the potential of marble as a medium for expressive art.
The preparatory cartoons used for the floor's panels were created by notable artists, including Pinturicchio, whose work on the Allegory of the Mount of Wisdom exemplifies the fusion of narrative and artistic technique that became a hallmark of Renaissance art.
Frequently asked questions about the Siena Cathedral floor
Why is Siena Cathedral floor covered for some part of the year?
The Siena Cathedral floor is covered for most of the year primarily due to its fragility. The intricate marble inlays, which represent a significant artistic achievement, are vulnerable to damage from foot traffic and environmental factors.
Do I need tickets to see the floor of the Siena Cathedral?
Tickets are required to enter the Siena Cathedral. You can see the cathedral's marble floor as you enter the cathedral space. On days when the floor is uncovered, a fee may be charged to see the marble inlays in their full splendor.
What are the key themes represented in the floor panels?
\The floor features 56 panels that depict various themes, including biblical stories, allegorical figures from Roman and Greek mythology, and historical narratives. Key themes include the lives of Moses and Elijah, the Ten Sibyls, and the concept of Wisdom, which is woven throughout the artwork.
How many panels are there in the Siena Cathedral floor?
There are 56 large panels in total on the Siena Cathedral floor.
When was the Siena Cathedral floor built?
A large number of panels of the Siena Cathedral floor were completed in the 14th and 16th centuries. However, several additions and renovations were done up till the 19th century.
How long should I allocate for a thorough visit to the floor?
You should at least spend around 30 minutes to fully appreciate the intricate designs and historical significance of the floor panels.
How was the Siena Cathedral floor created?
The Siena Cathedral floor was created using the inlaid marble technique and the graffito technique.
Is photography allowed on the cathedral floor?
Photography is generally permitted, but flash photography is prohibited to protect the artwork. Visitors should be mindful of the ambiance and the presence of other guests when taking photos.
Are there any special exhibits or events related to the cathedral floor?
While specific special exhibits may vary, the unveiling of the floor itself is a significant event. It's advisable to check before your visit if you're interested in exhibitions.
Is the floor accessible for visitors with mobility issues?
Yes, the Siena Cathedral nave and floor are accessible to visitors with mobility issues. Ramps are provided, and staff is available to offer assistance.
