The sanctuary is located within the territory of the Contrada dell'Oca, one of the seventeen historic neighborhoods of Siena.
It is built on the site of a 14th-century dye-works, which was the family business of Catherine's father.
The Oratory of the Kitchen is built on the spot where Catherine reportedly stood to avoid the flames when her house caught fire.
A portion of the sanctuary serves as the official seat of the Contrada dell'Oca.
The site contains the remains of the original floor of the house where Catherine prayed.
The chapel of the Chamber preserves the actual room where the saint experienced many of her mystical visions.
The sanctuary maintains the tradition of housing the relic of the saint’s thumb, distinct from her head which is kept in Rome.
The portico was designed by Baldassarre Peruzzi in the early 16th century.
The Santuario Casa di Santa Caterina is a complex of oratories and chapels built upon the actual site of Saint Catherine of Siena's family home. Catherine Benincasa lived here during the 14th century, and the site preserves the rooms she occupied, including her cell. The sanctuary features a series of interconnected rooms transformed into chapels, such as the Oratory of the Kitchen and the Oratory of the Chamber. The site houses important relics, including the head of the saint and a wooden crucifix from which she reportedly received the stigmata. The architecture spans several centuries, integrating medieval residential structures with Renaissance-era decorations. It serves as a significant pilgrimage site and is managed by the Contrada dell'Oca. The interior features artwork by 16th and 17th-century Sienese masters, including paintings depicting scenes from Catherine's life. It is located on the Costa di Sant'Antonio, a steep street in the Fontebranda district.
The internal portico and the view overlooking the Fontebranda district from the exterior terrace.
Wear comfortable, flat shoes as the streets leading to the sanctuary involve steep inclines.
Look for the wooden sculpture of the saint near the entrance, which is considered a high-quality example of Sienese religious art.
Check the Contrada dell'Oca museum nearby if you are interested in Sienese Palio culture.
Attempting to drive to the site, as it is located within the ZTL (restricted traffic zone) on extremely narrow, pedestrian-heavy streets.
Occasionally closed during specific Contrada dell'Oca internal events or major local festivities.
Shoulders and knees must be covered; maintain a respectful silence as it is an active religious site.
