The Palazzo Piccolomini stands on Piazza Pio II in Pienza, next to the cathedral. Construction began in 1459 for Pope Pius II, born Enea Silvio Piccolomini, and the architect was Bernardo Rossellino. It is one of the earliest examples of Renaissance architecture and was part of the rebuilding of Pienza as an ideal city. Its design was influenced by the Palazzo Rucellai in Florence, the work of Rossellino's master, Leon Battista Alberti.
The palace has a square plan of three floors, built of light rustic stone. A rectangular central courtyard has a loggia on stone columns, and two rows of large windows on the upper floors are each divided by a thin column. Stone family crests carry apostolic insignia.
The palace is now a museum. It includes the hall of arms, Pius II's study and bedchambers, and his collection of art and sculpture. On clear days the views reach the Val d'Orcia and Monte Amiata.
Comments