Santa Maria della Scala – Siena, Italy
The historic complex of Santa Maria della Scala stands directly opposite Siena Cathedral and was once one of the most important hospitals in medieval Europe. Founded in the 11th century, the institution provided care for pilgrims traveling along the Via Francigena, an important pilgrimage route connecting northern Europe to Rome.
Over the centuries the hospital expanded into a vast complex of halls, chapels, and courtyards decorated with frescoes illustrating the charitable work carried out within its walls. Today the restored buildings house museums and exhibitions dedicated to the history of the institution and the art of Siena.
Santa Maria della Scala offers a remarkable glimpse into the social and religious life of medieval Europe.
