Federico Pacini, Santa Maria della Scala The hospital of Santa Maria della Scala dates back to the 11th century and it is situated in the oldest, medieval part of Siena. It is the most ancient medical institution in the Western world, while on a global scale, it is second only to that of Istanbul. At the moment, part of the ancient hospital is under restoration in order to convert the area into a museum; the other half of the building has already been renovated and it exhibits a series of collections ranging from ancient art (National Archaeological Museum) to modern art.