Duomo

You absolutely must not miss Siena’s 12^th-century Duomo, facing the Piazza del Duomo. This is one of Italy’s most astounding cathedrals. Not only is its exterior breathtaking, but once you enter, you will be overwhelmed by its dramatic black-and-white, zebra-striped marble columns. Don’t miss the intricately carved, 13^th-century panels depicting the life of Christ on the octagonal pulpit. Also, be sure to see the Piccolomini Library. You need to buy a ticket to enter, but it is well worth it. This relatively small room is totally frescoed with gorgeous murals in still-vibrant colors portraying the life of Pope Pius II. The cathedral also has 59 fabulous inlaid-marble mosaic panels on the floor depicting religious scenes. However, some of the most precious of these are covered to protect them and are on display only from the end of August to the first of October