Basilica of San Domenico, Siena (must see)

The Basilica of San Domenico was originally built in 1265 and expanded in the 14th century with a Gothic facade. This large basilica has a brick exterior and an imposing bell tower. The interior has transverse wood beams and is filled with important artworks.

The church features several relics and artworks related to Saint Catherine. Saint Catherine spent a lot of time in this Basilica, and many artifacts and artworks in the Basilica memorialize this important Sienese saint.

The Chapel of the Vaults was used by Dominican nuns, the order that Saint Catherine joined. Visitors will find a portrait of Saint Catherine and the Canonization of Saint Catherine by Mattia Preti. On the left wall of the nave, visitors will find artworks by Francesco di Vannuccio, Il Sodoma, Antonio Magagna, Rutilio Manetti, and Sebastiano Folli. The right wall has artworks by Stefano Volpi and Alessandro Casolani.

The Saint Catherine Chapel has an altar housing the saint's mummified head and thumb, which were smuggled out of Rome so that Saint Catherine could rest in her hometown.

Several artworks are featured in the chapel. The Fainting and Ecstasy of Saint Catherine and Death of Niccolò di Tuldo were created by Il Sodoma. Francesco Vanni created Saint Catherine's Exorcism. Francesco di Giorgio created the 15th-century marble pavement.

An altar dedicated to Blessed Ambrogio Sansedoni is located in the right transept. The Gothic-style crypt houses a crucifix and a Crucification painting by Ventura Salimbeni.