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#4: The Duomo, (see map) is built upon the Santa Maria hill. Three majestic portals introduce the Cathedral inside, characterized by black and white marble, colors of the city of Siena. It was dedicated to the Madonna Assunta in 1179 by the SienesePope Alessandro III. In 1339, the Sienese decided to build a new Nave to the south with the aim of making it the biggest church in The Christendom. This plan came to nothing when plague hit the City soon afterwards, killing off much of the population. The uncompleted nave now contains a museum of gothic sculputure. #5: Just in front of the Duomo there is one of the symbols of the city The Spedale of Santa Maria della Scala, created to assist children, mendicants and pilgrims. Lo Spedale became in short time a potent and independent institution, thanks to the Sienese and to the government. The big building, with its beautiful frescoes, had been housing the hospital until few a years ago. Today it is a museum, becoming the third most important building in townafter the Palazzo Pubblico and the Duomo. #6: Lunch at the osteria Le Logge, with outside tables between medieval Palazzi. We recommend to try zuppa di funghi and handmade crostata. Le Logge is often a place where celebrities eat: Dustin Hoffman, Sting and Lionel Jospin have all been patrons. 
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