Palazzo Salimbeni, Medieval Gothic palace in Siena, Italy
Palazzo Salimbeni is a medieval building in Siena designed in the local Gothic style that dominated the region. Its stone facade displays windows divided into multiple sections, decorative crenellations, and horizontal decorative bands typical of Sienese architecture.
The building was constructed in the 14th century for the wealthy merchant family Salimbeni, though its foundations go back to earlier medieval periods. This family held significant power in Siena and influenced the city's economic development over generations.
Today the palazzo serves as the headquarters of Monte dei Paschi di Siena, one of Europe's oldest banks with roots stretching back to medieval times. The bank's presence here reflects Siena's long tradition as a trading center.
The building sits on Piazza Salimbeni near Via Banchi di Sopra and remains clearly visible from the street. While the interior is closed to the public, the exterior can be viewed comfortably from the piazza in front of it.
During the 19th century, architect Giuseppe Partini renovated the building and deliberately incorporated design elements from Siena's Palazzo Pubblico into its facade. This choice shows how the city maintained its architectural identity by repeating certain forms across different buildings.
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