Cappella di Santa Fina

Inside San Gimignano’s Collegiata, the Chapel of Saint Fina brings together three Florentine Renaissance artists: Giuliano da Maiano, who designed it; Benedetto da Maiano, who carved the marble altar; and Domenico Ghirlandaio, who painted scenes from the saint’s life.

Why it matters

The chapel is dedicated to Fina, the patron saint of San Gimignano, and preserves her relic. Its architecture, sculpture and frescoes form a concentrated ensemble within the medieval church.

What to notice

Ghirlandaio’s frescoes depict the announcement of Fina’s death and her funeral. The chapel’s tradition tells how yellow violets flowered on the wooden board on which she lay; the flowers remain associated with the saint and with March in San Gimignano.

Context and history

The chapel was built as Fina’s resting place, with Giuliano and Benedetto da Maiano and Domenico Ghirlandaio contributing to the project. The frescoes date to the mid-1470s, though published dates vary slightly.