Palazzo Chigi Saracini is a Gothic palace on the curve of Via di Città, a short walk from Piazza del Campo and Siena Cathedral. Its pointed windows and medieval tower make it an arresting sight on a street lined with historic buildings. Inside, a courtyard, loggia and richly decorated rooms reveal a more private side of Sienese noble life.
The palace has medieval origins and was altered by successive owners over the centuries. Its modern identity is closely tied to Count Guido Chigi Saracini, who founded the Accademia Musicale Chigiana here in 1932. The academy remains an important centre for advanced musical study and performance.
Art and music share the setting. The palace houses a collection of Sienese paintings, sculpture, furniture and decorative arts, while its concert hall and ornate interiors continue to provide a backdrop for performances. Hearing a concert here offers a different perspective on Siena’s cultural life; even a brief look at the exterior is worthwhile on a walk through the historic centre.
Check the academy’s current schedule before visiting, as interior access may be limited to guided visits or ticketed events. Book ahead for concerts, particularly in summer, and expect the city centre to be especially busy around the Palio in July and August. The palace is in Siena’s pedestrian-restricted historic centre, so arrive on foot or by local bus and wear comfortable shoes for the steep, uneven streets.