The Porta Ovile is one of the oldest and most striking city gates in Siena. The gate forms the entrance to the Franciscan Convento dell’Osservanza.
A brief history of the Porta Ovile in Siena
The Porta Ovile was probably originally built in 1230, but has been reconstructed and/or restored several times over the years. The current version therefore dates from the 14th century.
The gate is made entirely of brick and is shielded by a large solid rampart.
On the left side of the interior, a small aedicula can still be seen, with a fresco depicting the “Madonna and Child between Saints Ansano and Bernardino and angels.” It was painted by Sano di Pietro and is among the oldest paintings on the outer walls of ancient Siena.
Through the Porta Ovile you come to the Convento dell’Osservanza, one of the most impressive Franciscan monasteries in Tuscany.
Useful Information
The Porta Ovile connects Via di Vallerozzi with Via Simone Martini. It is located on the border of the Borgo d’Ovile neighborhood. Bus: 002, 005, 032, 57/P, 107, 109, 111, 112, 114, 134R, 138, 139, R54/A.
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