Basilica Cateriniana di San Domenico is a large Dominican church on Piazza San Domenico in Siena, closely linked to Saint Catherine of Siena. Its simple brick exterior gives way to a Gothic interior with a high nave, pointed arches, chapels and works of art. In the Chapel of Saint Catherine, you can see the saint’s preserved head and a finger. The basilica is also a quiet place to pause and look across Siena toward the cathedral, which stands on the opposite hill.
A Dominican church linked to Saint Catherine
The basilica was built for the Dominican order in Siena during the 13th century and enlarged in the following century. Its size and restrained brick exterior give it a different character from the city’s more ornate cathedral. The church has been altered and restored over time, and its interior combines Gothic elements with later additions.
Saint Catherine of Siena worshipped here and was closely connected to the Dominican community. The basilica was an important place in her religious life. Her former home, now a shrine, is also in the neighborhood, along Via Santa Caterina.
The Chapel of Saint Catherine
The chapel dedicated to Saint Catherine is the basilica’s most closely watched stop. It holds a reliquary containing her preserved head, along with a finger associated with the saint. Her remaining body is buried in Rome, at Santa Maria sopra Minerva.
Catherine was born in Siena in 1347 and joined the Dominican lay order. She devoted herself to serving the poor and became an influential religious figure. She died in Rome in 1380. The relics at San Domenico connect the church with her life in Siena and continue to draw people who come to pray or learn about the saint.
The chapel also has frescoes. Take time to look around it and at the paintings elsewhere in the basilica; the relic is not the only point of interest inside.
Gothic details and views across Siena
Inside, a tall nave and pointed arches give the church a solemn, open feel. High windows bring light into the space, while chapels and artworks line the interior. The basilica’s scale is easy to appreciate once you are inside, especially against the plain brick outside.
The church stands on a hill in Siena’s western historic centre. From the area around it, the cathedral is visible across the city, and the basilica itself can be seen from several viewpoints in Siena. A walk between San Domenico and the Duomo gives you another chance to see the city’s skyline and steep streets.
FAQ
Is entry to Basilica Cateriniana di San Domenico free?
Yes. Entry is free.
Can you see Saint Catherine’s relics inside?
Yes. The Chapel of Saint Catherine houses her preserved head and a finger associated with the saint.
Can you take photos inside the basilica?
No. Photography is prohibited inside the church.
