Santa Maria della Scala
A vast former hospital in Siena, now a museum showcasing 1400s frescoes, mosaics, and an underground archaeological complex.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler and fewer crowds
Santa Maria della Scala
Best Time
Cooler and fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast former hospital in Siena, now a museum showcasing 1400s frescoes, mosaics, and an underground archaeological complex.
"One of the most spectacular museums we've been to in Italy."
Download Audio Guide App
Consider downloading the museum's audio guide app beforehand, as Wi-Fi can be spotty inside. :iphone:
Focus on Key Areas
Don't try to see everything; prioritize the main fresco rooms and the library for a rewarding experience. :compass:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Magnificent Frescoes
Main halls
Witness breathtaking 1400s frescoes that adorn the walls, showcasing incredible Renaissance artistry.
Astonishing Library
Library
Explore a stunning library, a true architectural gem, filled with historical texts and a palpable sense of history.
Underground Archaeological Museum
Lower levels
Descend into an enchanting underground museum with Etruscan and Roman artifacts, a cool escape on hot days.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Navigate the Museum's Layout
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Download Audio Guide App
Consider downloading the museum's audio guide app beforehand, as Wi-Fi can be spotty inside. :iphone:
Focus on Key Areas
Don't try to see everything; prioritize the main fresco rooms and the library for a rewarding experience. :compass:
Cool Down Spot
Perfect place to escape the heat! The underground museum offers a refreshing break on scorching days. :snowflake:
Check for Exhibitions
The museum often hosts temporary modern art exhibits alongside its historical collections. :art:
Tips
from all over the internet
Download Audio Guide App
Consider downloading the museum's audio guide app beforehand, as Wi-Fi can be spotty inside. :iphone:
Focus on Key Areas
Don't try to see everything; prioritize the main fresco rooms and the library for a rewarding experience. :compass:
Cool Down Spot
Perfect place to escape the heat! The underground museum offers a refreshing break on scorching days. :snowflake:
Check for Exhibitions
The museum often hosts temporary modern art exhibits alongside its historical collections. :art:
Combine with Duomo Visit
Many visitors find the cathedral and library across the street equally stunning and worth the ticket. :church:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Santa Maria della Scala for its breathtaking frescoes, astonishing library, and fascinating underground archaeological museum, calling it a true architectural gem and one of Italy's most spectacular museums. However, some find the layout disorienting and the modern temporary exhibits detract from the historical experience.
"Loved it!!
Mosaics on the floor are priceless, the library is astonishing, as well as all the paintings.
A true architectural gem.
One of the best cathedral i ever seen. Truly amazing!"
Al B
"One of the most spectacular museums we've been to in Italy. The wall frescos are remarkable and the archeological museum underground is an enchanting experience with a seemingly endless maze of discoveries."
Ilan Carmel
"Great experience to visit. I would like to particularly express thanks and gratitude to a staff member working on the 5th floor library on the 1st of September 2025 (female, glasses, curly hair). She kindly gave a detailed and informative tour of the library and its history. It made the whole experience of visiting memorable and special."
R LK
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Santa Maria della Scala is located in Siena, Italy, directly opposite the Siena Cathedral. It's easily accessible on foot from Piazza del Campo. If arriving by car, park in one of the city's garages and walk.
There are multiple churches named Santa Maria della Scala. The museum complex described here, known for its frescoes and historical significance, is located in Siena. There is also a church of the same name in Rome's Trastevere neighborhood. 
From Siena train station, you can take a local bus (e.g., line 10) towards the city center, getting off near Piazza del Campo. From there, it's a short walk to Santa Maria della Scala.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but reviews suggest around €9 per person. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing and consider purchasing tickets in advance to avoid queues.
Opening hours can vary seasonally and may be affected by temporary exhibitions. It's best to check the official Santa Maria della Scala website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure entry and potentially save time waiting in line.
Often, combined tickets are available that include entry to Santa Maria della Scala, the Siena Cathedral, and other nearby attractions. Inquiring at the ticket office or checking online can reveal these options.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Santa Maria della Scala is renowned for its vast complex, which was once one of Europe's largest hospitals. It's famous for its stunning 1400s frescoes, intricate floor mosaics, and its historical significance as a center of art and culture.
Most visitors spend around 2 hours exploring the museum, but some wish they had more time to see everything. If you plan to delve deep into the history and exhibits, allocate at least 2-3 hours.
Yes, an audio guide app is available for Android and iOS devices. However, reviewers note that Wi-Fi within the museum can be unreliable, so downloading content beforehand is advised.
Key attractions include the magnificent frescoes in the main halls, the impressive library, the underground archaeological museum with Etruscan and Roman artifacts, and the intricate floor mosaics.
While the historical and artistic content might be more engaging for older children and adults, the vastness and underground sections can be interesting for younger ones. It's a good place to cool down on a hot day.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary, especially for temporary exhibitions. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted in most areas, but it's always best to check for signage or ask staff if unsure.
The frescoed halls, the grand library, and the atmospheric underground archaeological museum offer fantastic photographic opportunities. The intricate floor mosaics are also a highlight.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the frescoes and library are historically significant, consider focusing on the more visually striking elements and the sheer scale of the former hospital. The vastness of the complex itself can be an adventure for kids to explore. Bringing snacks and water is a good idea, and be prepared for a lot of walking.
🏛️ History Buffs
Delving into the underground archaeological museum will reveal layers of history dating back to Etruscan and Roman times, offering a comprehensive timeline of the site's occupation. The library also holds historical significance, potentially housing ancient texts and records.
🎨 Art Lovers
Don't overlook the floor mosaics, which are equally impressive examples of craftsmanship. While some visitors find the temporary modern art exhibitions less appealing, they can offer a contemporary perspective on the space.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: The Former Hospital
Today, this historic edifice has been transformed into a dynamic museum and exhibition space. It preserves and showcases the incredible artistic heritage accumulated over centuries, including stunning frescoes and intricate architectural details. The transition from a functional hospital to a cultural institution highlights its enduring importance to Siena's identity.
Visitors can explore various sections, including the archaeological museum in the lower levels, which reveals the site's even older Etruscan and Roman past. The library, with its impressive collection, offers a quiet space for reflection on the building's long and varied life.
Artistic Masterpieces: Frescoes and Mosaics
Beyond the frescoes, the floor mosaics are another significant artistic feature. These intricate designs, often found in the older sections of the complex, showcase exceptional craftsmanship and add another layer of visual richness to the visitor experience. They are a testament to the skill of the artisans who worked on the building throughout its history.
While the primary focus is on historical art, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, often featuring contemporary artists. These modern installations can provide an interesting contrast to the ancient artworks, sparking dialogue between past and present. However, some visitors feel these modern exhibits can detract from the historical ambiance.
Navigating the Museum Experience
An audio guide app is available, which can be very helpful for understanding the history and significance of different areas. However, it's crucial to note that the museum's Wi-Fi can be unreliable. Therefore, downloading the app and its content before you arrive is highly recommended to ensure a smooth experience.
For those who prefer a more focused visit, it's advisable to identify the key areas you want to see beforehand, such as the main fresco halls and the library. While the underground sections offer a cool escape and historical artifacts, some visitors found them to be less engaging or 'barren' compared to the main exhibits.
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