House and Sanctuary of Saint Catherine, Siena

The house and sanctuary of Saint Catherine, in Siena

The house and sanctuary of Saint Catherine is the place where Catherine Benincasa was born and grew up, patron saint of Italy and Europe. The Siena audio-guided tour stops here, with respect, to evoke this high spiritual place, become a sanctuary dedicated to the saint.

The birthplace of the patron saint

On the left is the house and sanctuary of Saint Catherine, there where Catherine Benincasa was born and grew up, one of the greatest spiritual figures of history. Born in Siena in the fourteenth century into a modest family, she devoted her life to faith, to the poor and the sick, and played a considerable role in the Church of her time, going so far as to intervene in the great affairs of Christianity. Venerated as a saint, she is today recognised as a Doctor of the Church, patron saint of Italy and co-patron of Europe. Her family house was transformed into a sanctuary that pays tribute to her: there you discover a series of chapels and oratories laid out in the former rooms, adorned with frescoes, paintings and works of art evoking her life and her spirituality. A place of memory and contemplation, deeply rooted in the identity of Siena, the house and sanctuary of Saint Catherine is discovered with respect.

What to see

Here you discover, with respect, the place where Saint Catherine of Siena was born and grew up, Doctor of the Church and patron saint of Italy and Europe, whose family house was transformed into a sanctuary: a series of chapels and oratories laid out in the former rooms, adorned with frescoes and works of art evoking her life. The house and sanctuary of Saint Catherine is a high spiritual place of Siena. It is a stop to be discovered with respect.

Practical information

The house and sanctuary of Saint Catherine lies in the heart of Siena, reachable on foot. A place of worship and memory, it can be visited with respect; entry is generally free, but hours vary. It is best to check them before coming and to respect the sacred character of the place.

Who was Saint Catherine of Siena?

One of the greatest spiritual figures of history, born in Siena in the fourteenth century; she devoted her life to faith, to the poor and the sick, and is today a Doctor of the Church, patron saint of Italy and co-patron of Europe. Her family house has been transformed into a sanctuary.