Church of San Carlo Borromeo in Pienza

The Church of San Carlo Borromeo is located within the complex of the Conservatory of San Carlo, a historic institution in Pienza that arose in the 1600s and expanded in subsequent centuries.

With its sober facade and striking interior, the Church houses an artwork of extraordinary importance: the altarpiece by Francesco Rustici—the artist also known as “Il Rustichino”—depicting the Madonna and Child with Saint Charles Borromeo, Saint Francis, Saint Clare of Assisi, Saint Catherine of Siena and Saint John the Baptist.

Rustici, little known to the general public, was a gifted painter whose career was prematurely cut short, leaving the art world with a limited but remarkable catalog. Having passed away in his early thirties, Il Rustichino is considered one of the leading exponents of Caravaggesque naturalism in Siena. 

The painting, dated to the years 1622–1623, depicts a “Holy Conversation,” with the central figure of the Child Jesus blessing the devout Saint Charles Borromeo, under the gentle gaze of the Virgin Mary. 

The Church of San Carlo Borromeo reopened its doors to the public in December 2024 after a safety upgrade, returning to its original splendor one of the most fascinating places of worship in Pienza.