The Piccolomini Library located in the Duomo of Siena, Tuscany, Italy is a must-see when visiting the cathedral. You’ll be amazed as you pass through the doorway at this small library. Painted on the walls and ceiling are centuries-old, brightly-colored frescoes. Look around and you’ll experience other great works of art. There is a significant sculpture in the center of the room and manuscripts, or choir books, behind glass under the frescoes.
Inside the Piccolomini Library
Cardinal Francesco Todeschini, archbishop of Siena, (later to be named Pope Pius III) began constructing the library in 1492. The library, built to honor the life of his uncle, Pope Pius II, houses his many Greek, Latin, and Hebrew books and manuscripts. The Peruvian painter Pinturicchio painted the frescoes between 1503 and 1508. He divided the walls into ten scenes. Each scene representing various important stages in the life of Siena’s favorite son, cardinal Enea Silvio Piccolomini, who eventually became Pope Pius II.
You may not be able to figure out the significance of each scene. But, start in the right corner as you enter the room and look for the young Piccolomini. You will then see the same person, only older, in each of the scenes.
Other works of art in the Piccolomini Library
As you enter the room you see a group of marble sculptures in the center. The Three Graces is a Roman copy of the original and depict three Greek mythological graces. Graces are typically goddesses of charm, beauty, nature, human creativity, goodwill, and fertility.
Glass showcases positioned around the room contain large 15th and 16th-century liturgical manuscripts with fine, colorful illustrations offering a look into Italian history. Take time to study the manuscripts. Famous painters of the time illustrated the pages.
It’s not a large room but spend some time here taking it all in before moving on to the rest of the cathedral. If you’d like more information visit: https://operaduomo.siena.it/en/sites/piccolomini_library/
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