Basilica of the Madonna di Provenzano

The Basilica of the Madonna di Provenzano, in Siena

The Basilica of the Madonna di Provenzano is a monument that embodies the soul of Siena, linked to the famous Palio. The Siena audio-guided tour stops here, with respect, to evoke this Mannerist sanctuary with a white marble façade, deeply dear to the people of Siena.

The Mannerist sanctuary dear to the people of Siena

In front of you rises the Basilica of the Madonna di Provenzano, a monument that embodies on its own the soul of Siena. Built at the end of the sixteenth century in a Mannerist style, it stands out by its white marble façade, which contrasts with the dominant brick of the town. Its great dome, almost invisible from the exterior, reveals itself much better once inside, crowning a solemn and luminous space. The basilica was built to shelter a venerated image of the Virgin, the Madonna di Provenzano, object of a deep popular devotion. This link with Sienese piety is so strong that one of the two annual Palios, the famous horse race, is dedicated to her and is run in her honour every summer. The basilica is thus at the heart of the religious and festive identity of the town. A sanctuary deeply rooted in the fervour of the people of Siena, the Basilica of the Madonna di Provenzano is discovered with respect.

What to see

You admire, with respect, the Mannerist sanctuary of the end of the sixteenth century with a white marble façade, with a great dome that reveals itself inside, built to shelter a venerated image of the Virgin, object of a deep devotion, to which one of the two annual Palios is dedicated. The Basilica of the Madonna di Provenzano embodies the soul of Siena. It is a stop to be discovered with respect.

Practical information

The Basilica of the Madonna di Provenzano lies in the heart of Siena, reachable on foot. A place of worship, it can be visited with respect for services; entry is generally free, but hours vary. The Palio dedicated to the Madonna is generally run in early July. It is best to check the arrangements before coming and to respect the sacred character of the place.

What link does the Basilica of the Madonna di Provenzano have with the Palio of Siena?

One of the two annual Palios, the famous horse race, is dedicated to her and is run in her honour every summer; the basilica, a Mannerist sanctuary sheltering a venerated image of the Virgin, is at the heart of the religious and festive identity of Siena.

Where is the Basilica of the Madonna di Provenzano of Siena?

In the heart of Siena, in Tuscany, in Italy.