Where exactly are the Steps of Santa Caterina located?

The Steps of Santa Caterina are located near the Duomo on the Baptistery side, forming a steep slope that leads directly to the portal of the Duomo Nuovo. This makes it easily accessible as part of a visit to the cathedral complex in the city center.

When was the Santa Caterina staircase built and who designed it?

The staircase was constructed in 1451 based on a project by architect Giovanni Sabatelli during the Italian Renaissance. This fifteenth-century structure has been remarkably preserved and remains one of the notable architectural features from that era.

Why is the staircase called the Steps of Santa Caterina?

The staircase is named after St. Catherine because local tradition says the young girl was pushed down the stairs by the devil himself. A cross is marked on the ground at the point where she allegedly fell, serving as a historical and spiritual marker for visitors.

What should I look for when visiting the Steps of Santa Caterina?

When visiting, look for the cross marked on the ground that commemorates St. Catherine's legendary fall, and take note of the steep medieval construction that exemplifies fifteenth-century architecture. The steps also provide an interesting passage between the Baptistery and the Duomo Nuovo portal.

Can I visit the Steps of Santa Caterina as part of a Duomo tour?

Yes, the Steps of Santa Caterina are an excellent addition to any Duomo visit since they're located directly on the Baptistery side of the cathedral complex. The steep slope and its historical significance make it a worthwhile stop for those exploring the religious and architectural landmarks around the main cathedral.

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Steps of Santa Caterina

Name: Steps of Santa Caterina
Rating: 4.1

Piazza del Duomo, 8, 53100 Siena SI, Italia• ★★★★☆• 438 views

Clara Illy

Siena

About Steps of Santa Caterina

Near the Duomo, on the Baptistery side, there is a steep slope that leads to the portal of the Duomo Nuovo. The staircase dates back to the fifteenth century and is also known as the staircase of St. Catherine because tradition says that the young girl would fall from the staircase, pushed by the devil himself. The point of the fall is marked by a cross on the ground.the staircase was built in 1451 on a project by Giovanni Sabatelli.

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