Historic Centre of the City of Pienza in Italy

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
Comune di Pienza (only in Italian)

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1996
Size of heritage: 4.41 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 11,679°
Latitude: 43,077°

Summary

It was in this Tuscan town that Renaissance town-planning concepts were first put into practice after Pope Pius II decided, in 1459, to transform the look of his birthplace. He chose the architect Bernardo Rossellino, who applied the principles of his mentor, Leon Battista Alberti. This new vision of urban space was realized in the superb square known as Piazza Pio II and the buildings around it: the Piccolomini Palace, the Borgia Palace and the cathedral with its pure Renaissance exterior and an interior in the late Gothic style of south German churches.

Location on Map

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Historic Centre of the City of Pienza: A Jewel of Renaissance Urban Planning

The Historic Centre of the City of Pienza, located in the Province of Siena, Tuscany, Italy, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the remarkable achievements of Renaissance urban planning. This small town, originally known as Corsignano, was transformed into an ideal Renaissance city by Pope Pius II in the 15th century.

Pienza's history dates back to the Etruscan period, but it was during the Renaissance that it gained prominence. Pope Pius II, born Enea Silvio Piccolomini, envisioned creating an ideal city that would reflect the humanist ideals of the time. He commissioned the renowned architect Bernardo Rossellino to redesign Corsignano, transforming it into a harmonious and balanced urban space.

The historic centre of Pienza is a testament to the principles of Renaissance urban planning. The layout of the city follows a grid pattern, with three main streets intersecting at the central square, Piazza Pio II. The buildings are characterized by their elegant facades, harmonious proportions, and use of local materials such as travertine stone.

One of the most iconic buildings in Pienza is the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. Its facade, designed by Rossellino, is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. The cathedral's interior houses beautiful frescoes by Sienese artists, including the renowned painter Pinturicchio.

Another notable building is the Palazzo Piccolomini, the former residence of Pope Pius II. This grand palace features a stunning courtyard and a loggia with panoramic views of the Val d'Orcia, a picturesque landscape that surrounds Pienza.

Pienza's historic centre is also home to numerous other palaces, churches, and public buildings that contribute to its unique character. The town's narrow streets, lined with charming shops and cafes, invite visitors to explore its rich history and enjoy the local cuisine.

Today, the Historic Centre of the City of Pienza remains remarkably well-preserved, allowing visitors to experience the splendor of Renaissance urban planning. The site was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1996, recognizing its outstanding universal value.

Address
Distance: 0,3 mi
Podere Colombaiolo 12
53026 Pienza
Italy

Time Information

Checkout: 10:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

Videos from the area

Pienza celebra Mario Luzi

Published: October 12, 2014
Length: 19:45 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: Associazione Mendrisio Mario Luzi Poesia del

La Città di Pienza celebra quello che è stato uno dei suoi più importanti cittadini, il poeta e senatore a vita Mario Luzi, sabato 29 giugno alle ore 17.30 presso la Sala Consiliare del...

Pienza guided walk - www.walkabouttuscany.com

Published: February 17, 2014
Length: 40:53 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: Gianni Stanghellini

Pienza in the Val d'Orcia (Orcia river valley) is an area located 40 kilometers South of Siena. It is well known for the beautiful scenery. You can see for miles over typical Tuscany postcard...

Affittacamere Il Giardino Segreto Pienza Siena Tuscany

Published: July 21, 2011
Length: 32:09 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: Cretediena Toscana - Tuscany - Italy

Nel centro storico di Pienza, in via Condotti n. 13, vi invitiamo a scoprire il "Giardino Segreto" un affittacamere ricavato dalla ristrutturazione di una casa padronale del 1700 con uno splendido...

Marion d’ Amburgo legge: il sogno (...) sulla morte di Pio II

Published: November 29, 2014
Length: 28:44 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Francesco Dondoli - Non Sine Iocunditate

Francesco Dondoli, Non Sine Iocunditate, Marion d'Amburgo IL SOGNO DEL CARDINALE AMMANNATI SULLA MORTE DI PIO II "Cortili aperti nella notte dell'Assunta", Cortile del Palazzo Ammannati,.