The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta

Today was the Gates of Heaven. The weather wasn’t cooperating in the morning but we were spending the day in Siena so a short car ride. We arrived at the Cathedral just as the skies opened up but got in and bought our tickets for the Gates of Heaven. Viewed the interior of the Cathedral, one of Italy’s most beautiful Romanesque and Gothic cathedrals. The 9th century church was originally dedicated to the Virgin Mary and consecrated in 1179. Known for it’s incredible marble mosaic inlay floors, the mosaics are covered most of the year and we were fortunate to visit now with the floors being uncovered. Hundreds of sculptures dedicated to The Apostles and all the Popes from St. Peter through to Pope Alexander III Bandinelli adorn the upper portion of the building. Paintings dating from the 16th century, the Piccolomini Library with it’s frescoes painted in 1508, a collection of stunning stained glass windows and more make this Duomo a must see if you are in Italy. But the most enjoyable was an exclusive tour of the Gates of Heaven. After entering a hidden door near the entrance of the Cathedral, you climb a narrow (claustrophobic), steep staircase that has very narrow steps and winds around and around and around. Needless to say my claustrophobia kicked in about half way and I wasn’t sure I would make it. But reaching the top was well worth it, we were now in a gallery that runs along the inside near the ceiling, looking down on the Cathedral and all the people below. Exiting the interior you are then greeted by an outdoor terrace that takes you to the very rooftops of the church (thankfully mostly covered as there was now significant rain). We finished our tour climbing back down the “ladder to heaven” and made our way to Piazzo del Campo to find somewhere dry to have lunch. We got a great table covered with a huge awning and enjoyed lunch while watching the other tourists dodging the rain. Made our way home (found a McDonald’s and stopped in for a coffee, that was an experience….). Quiet night in playing cards and teaching Sharon and Rich how to play 99. Big day on the road tomorrow.Okumaya devam et