What is Palazzo Piccolomini in Pienza?
Matthew Shields
Updated on March 18, 2026
What is Palazzo Piccolomini in Pienza?
Palazzo Piccolomini is one of the main architectural feats in Pienza built according to the humanist project of the “ideal city” imagined by Enea Silvio Piccolomini, also known as Pope Pius II. Did you know? Enea Piccolomini was born in Pienza in 1405 but it wasn’t called that at that time: the town was called Corsignano.
What is the history of Pienza?
The town of Pienza is created through a program of urban renewal. Takes its name in honor of Pope Pius II, who decided to re-build the trapezoidal plaza next to the church, town hall, Palazzo Borgia, the Palazzo Piccolomini, etc..
Why is the Piccolomini considered an example of Renaissance architecture?
Enea Piccolomini was born in Pienza in 1405 but it wasn’t called that at that time: the town was called Corsignano. Built in 1459 as a summer home for the pope, it is considered the first example of Renaissance architecture and its back garden the first example of a “roof garden” in the Renaissance.
