Hôpital Santa Maria della Scala, Medieval hospital complex in Siena, Italy.

The hôpital Santa Maria della Scala is a medieval hospital complex in Siena, stretching across multiple levels and positioned directly across from the cathedral. The building contains several exhibition areas throughout its spaces and features many original structures from its founding era.

Built in the 13th century, the hospital stands opposite Siena's Duomo, at the top of the steps leading to it, which likely gave the complex its name. Its church of Santa Maria della Scala was renovated in 1446 and was part of the hospital from the outset, on the same level as the great hall. In 1995 the churches of the Santissima Annunziata and the Pellegrinaio were restored and opened.

The name refers to the staircase of Siena's cathedral opposite, which the hospital faces. In the underground levels, the Compagnia di Santa Caterina della Notte still holds its rooms, and the Società di Esecutori di Pie Disposizioni has its historic seat there. The church of Santa Maria della Scala, incorporated from the start, was renovated in 1446 and stands at the same level as the great hall.

The complex is centrally located in the city and easily accessible on foot from the main square. The spaces spread across multiple floors, so wear comfortable shoes and plan for a visit that allows time to explore its various sections.

The openings visible here and there in the underground levels show how the city itself was built in stages, one level above another. Down there visitors also find the National Archaeological Museum, the displays of Palazzo Squarcialupi and the original sculptures of Jacopo della Quercia's Fonte Gaia.