A second massive addition of the main…

A second massive addition of the main body of the Siena cathedral, planned in 1339. would have more than doubled the size of the structure by means of an entirely new nave and two aisles ranged perpendicular to the existing nave and centered on the high altar.

The construction was begun under the direction of Giovanni di Agostino, better known as a sculptor.

Construction is halted by the Black Death in 1348.

Basic errors in the construction are already evident by this time, however, and the work will never resume.

The outer walls, remains of this extension, can now be seen to the south of the Duomo.

The floor of the uncompleted nave now serves as a parking lot and museum, and, though unfinished, the remains are testament to Sienese power, ambition, and artistic achievement.

Siena is devastated by the Black Death of 1348, which ends the Sienese school of painting.

The city also suffers from ill-fated financial enterprises.