Siena is a true medieval work of art in the form of a city: who would not want to get married in such a jewel? The Basilica di San Domenico, which contains the relic of Saint Catherine of Siena (patron saint of Italy along with Saint Francis) is a wonderful venue in which to celebrate your religious wedding. Its large capacity also makes it suitable for weddings with many guests.
The Basilica of San Domenico, built on the top of the tufa hill of Camporegio, dominates the Fontebranda plain. From the top there is an excellent view of the Duomo and the Torre del Mangia. Erected in the 13th century, it was enlarged in the following century. It contains the head-relic of St Catherine of Siena, inside a splendid Renaissance chapel built for the occasion and frescoed by Sodoma and others. The church is also called the basilica cateriniana due to its connection with the Sienese saint and certain episodes from her life. It is an Italian national monument.
A 14th-century Gothic crypt also belongs to the complex and can be accessed by a staircase at the end of the right aisle or from the left side of the church. Created with the foundations of the church at the beginning of the 14th century, it was later abandoned and put to profane use in the 16th century. Until it was re-consecrated in 1935. Divided by pillars into three cross-vaulted and apsidal naves, it is where most religious services are celebrated today. These are celebrated mainly in winter, as the climate is milder than in the basilica above. In the vast room is the Crucifix by Sano di Pietro behind the high altar and the Crucifixion signed and dated 1600 by Ventura Salimbeni.
Address
Piazza San Domenico 1, 53100 Siena
Contact number
+39 0577 286848