23rd March 12
This is the Siena Cathedral located in Siena, Italy. Siena traditionally was a major international banking center during the late 1200’s and early 1300’s. They were in close competition with Florence and this cathedral is the direct output of that competition. By looking at the outside Facade you would have never guessed that the inside would be so elaborately decorated. To me it looks like an enormous Egyptian tomb and just look at that hexagonal dome!! The stripping however is native to the Tuscan region of Italy and is seen in many of their buildings. You can also see it on the large bell tower on the outside of the structure.
(via myloveitaly)
