Siena Cathedral: Medieval Frescoes and Single-Lens Windows Resurface at the San Giovannino Construction Site

An official visit took place this morning at the construction siteof the Oratory of Saints Giovannino and Gennaro, on Via dei Fusari in Siena, as part of the restoration, safety, and enhancement project promotedby the Opera della Metropolitana di Siena. The site tour was led by the organization’s rector, Carlo Rossi, in the presence of a delegation of city officials, with the aim of providing an update on the progress of the work.

The project, approved in 2023 and officially launched in January 2024, represents one of the most significant restoration efforts related to the monumental complex of Siena’s Cathedral. During the course of the work, historical artifacts of particular significance have come to light, including ancient single-lancet windows from the Baptistery and frescoes dating back to the 14th century—elements that help redefine the stratigraphic interpretation of the area.

The project also involves connecting the Crypt to the Baptistery through the restoration of two levels located beneath the left western transept and the Crypt area itself. This solution will allow for the creation of a new exhibition space of approximately 900 square meters, designed to offer a unique view of the western side of Siena Cathedral, which is currently partially obscured by 16th-century structures.

The project also includes the restoration of the ancient single-lancet windows that once illuminated the western side of the Cathedral and the construction of new vertical access points, including a staircase and an elevator accessible from Via dei Fusari, designed to facilitate public access to the restored spaces. Today’s visit provided an opportunity to assess the progress of the work and outline the future prospects of the project, which is intended to enhance the city’s cultural offerings in the coming years and contribute to a better understanding of the architectural evolution of the Siena Cathedral complex.

Siena Cathedral: Medieval Frescoes and Single-Lens Windows Resurface at the San Giovannino Construction Site

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