Basilica of Santa Maria dei Servi, Siena

The Basilica of Santa Maria dei Servi is a parish church in Siena that is famous for the artwork in its interiors and for its musical traditions. The church is built on the site of the former Church of San Clement, which was acquired by the Servite order in the Medieval era, from which it gets its name. The original Basilica was built in the 13th century on the site of the old church, but later underwent reconstruction and transformation which continued until the 15th-16th century. It was consecrated in 1533. From its consecration, the church has always held music concerts. In the 17th century it had 4 organs. Today, there is only one remaining organ that was constructed in 1900.

The Basilica of Santa Maria dei Servi has an unfinished 13th century facade. The facade is simple and unadorned, with a single doorway and a rose window (indications of another can be discerned on the wall). The Romanesque bell tower was modified several times. The last reconstruction took place in 1926. The church has a portico with slender columns at the entrance and three naves. The interior is in great contrast with the rough and bare aspect of the exterior. A renaissance style has been adopted, the design of which is attributed to Baldassare Peruzzi. Near the entrance is a Crucifix of the 14th century and a Holy Water Stoup of the 13th century. Two aisles flank the central nave and, on the right, is a painting, called the Virgin and Child with Two Angels, by Coppo di Marcovaldo. Another famous work of art within the church is found in the south transept of the second chapel. It is a fresco, called Slaughter of the Innocents, created by painter, Pietro Lorenzetti, who introduced naturalism into Sienese Art.