The magnificent Piccolomini Palace, also known as the Pontifical, was commissioned by Enea Silvio Piccolomini (who later became Pope Pius II) to Bernardo Rossellino as part of a project to rebuild Pienza as an ideal city. The design of the palace is inspired by the models of Florentine private architecture.
This building is found in a lovely location, right in the center of Pienza near the Duomo. Built on a regular plan around a courtyard with a fountain in the center, it has as its true architectural theme the relationship with the landscape: from the porch on the backside, you can enjoy an extraordinary view of the Val d'Orcia and Monte Amiata. A perfect mixture of art and nature.
Palazzo Piccolomini was built in 1459 as a summer residence and is unanimously considered the first example of Renaissance architecture. The courtyard often hosts many events and concerts, especially during the summer.
