The iconography

The imposing iconographic project of the Cappella Nova is the result of the collaboration of artists, patrons, humanists and theologians. Antonio Albèri, archdeacon of the Cathedral and preceptor of Giovanni Piccolomini, future Pope Pius II, was probably one of the last named.

The theme chosen, certainly in line with the critical social, political and cultural context of the time, was inspired by various sources, such as the Bible (in particular the book of the Apocalypse), Dante's Divine Comedy, Jacopo da Voragine's Golden Legend, the sermons of St. Vincenzo Ferrer, the writings of St. Thomas Aquinas and St. Augustine.

The splendid frescoes take on the deepest and most profound aspects of the Christian faith: the end all time, the fear of death, judgement, the desire for salvation.