Palazzo Chigi-Saracini, Gothic palace in Via di Città, Siena, Italy

Palazzo Chigi-Saracini is a Gothic palace on Via di Città distinguished by its curved facade and characteristic trefoil windows. The building combines medieval Gothic elements with an internal courtyard at the rear that reflects the design principles of medieval Italian architecture.

The Marescotti, a Ghibelline family, built the palace's oldest core in the 12th century; their eagle emblem remains on the trefoil windows. By the early 14th century it had reached its present size and housed the Republic's council of Reggitori. In 1506 the Piccolomini del Mandolo added Renaissance loggia decorations, and after 1770 the Saracini extended the facade in Gothic style. Guido Chigi-Saracini founded the Accademia Musicale Chigiana here in 1932.

The palace houses a music academy that has been active since 1932, hosting regular concerts and performances you can attend during your visit. This institution shapes the cultural life of the area and draws music students and performers from around the world.

The palace stands on Via di Città in the Terzo di Città, its curved facade following the bend of the narrow medieval street. The Accademia Musicale Chigiana occupies the building, so access to the art gallery and the Salone dei Concerti depends on the academy's guided visits; arrange them ahead by email or phone.

The Marescotti eagle with outstretched wings is carved on the trefoil windows of the facade, a reminder of the Guelph-era family who raised the tower beside the palace in the mid-12th century. Look up at the brick upper storeys to find it.