Has anyone out there visited the Duomo in Siena this summer? I have read that the magnificent floors of the Duomo, usually covered and hidden, are uncovered and visible this summer until October 27. Also that "for the first time ever" the upper reaches of the Duomo -- staircases, corridors, balconies, etc. -- are available for visits, also until October 27. Select Italy has a 90-minute "secret itineraries" tour including these upper reaches, priced at US $47, and requiring advance reservations. Has anyone seen these recently? I believe the floor is there for anyone with paid admission to the Duomo to see and appreciate. But are the upper reaches only available with a special tour? If so, do you know if this is the only or best tour, and is this really a special experience worth the extra cost? Grazie Mille!
Posted by
Rochelle, IL
263 posts
I can partly answer your question. I was in Siena Sept. 18 and toured the Duomo. I bought the cathedral only ticket, which was 7 euro. Yes, the floors are uncovered and they are beautiful. A woman from the ticket booth told me I was lucky because the floors were uncovered. I only did the Duomo tour, and only stayed on the main floor. I did not notice whether the upper levels were open. I hope that helps a little.
Posted by
Rochelle, IL
263 posts
As a follow up, I picked up a leaflet on the SI Pass All inclusive, also sold at the ticket window at te duomo. According to the leaflet, you het access to the Cathedral, the crypt, the Poccolomini's library, the Baptistry, Musee dell Opera, and can climb up to the "wonderful terrace of the Facciatone on the Dumo Nuvo" plus free admission th the Oratory of SanBerndono in Piazza San Francesco. Cost of this pass is 12 Euro. I dont know how that comparees to the secfet tour or if that is what you were interested in.
Posted by
OP
Carmel, CA, USA
2456 posts
Grazie Terry! Digging more, I have found that: (1) the Facciatori terraces you mention are actually in the Museum, not the Duomo itself, and I think they are generally accessible; (2) the OPA Duomo/Museum group also offers tours of these special upper reaches of the Duomo until Oct 27, for 25 euros, with an English-speaking guide and two security guards(!). I'm trying to learn if this is the same exact offering as Italy or if these are two different tours. Italy says their group may include their customers and others, so maybe there's just one tour. Since I may only see Siena and its Duomo once in my lifetime, especially when the upper reaches and beautiful floor are available, I may just spring for the whole enchilada, so to speak.