Siena is with Florence one of the most attractive destinations in the region. City of the famous palio, an equestrian race, it is a unique medieval town located in the heart of the Tuscan lands, between the hills of Chianti, the Val d’Elsa and the hills of the Crete Senesi, where live nearly 54,000 Sienese.
Presentation
Siena is exceptional because of its prestigious artistic heritage, with its architecture mainly from the 12th to the 15th century, recognized by its inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its remarkable conservation is probably due in part to its moderate population and low industrialization.
The city looks like a gigantic medieval town. Its vast historic centre that develops around the Piazza del Campo and the Duomo, is still protected by its former enclosure. It is characterized by cobbled streets and lined with high palace that embrace the relief of three hills, immersing the visitor in the middle ages.
In particular, the Piazza del Campo is one of the most beautiful squares in the world, with an elegance and majesty that impresses, with its shell shape, where stands the high tower Torre della Mangia, its ancient palaces such as the Palazzo Pubblico. The latter hosted the city governments and in particular preserves the famous frescoes of the Allegory of Good and Bad Government.
The city is full of wonders such as its tower houses, palaces, churches or fountains. Among the other major monuments of Siena, there is first of all the Siena Cathedral with its sculptural ornaments, its baptistery, its crypt, or its Piccolomini library with frescoes from the Pinturicchio.
→ See also Things to do and see in Siena
Siena is also known for hosting the Palio, a traditional equestrian race that runs twice a year between the historic districts of the city (the contrade) in an impressive competition around Piazza del Campo (2 July and 16 August).
The downside is the significant tourist influx – the other side of its assets – that has multiplied in the last 15 years, from the beautiful days of spring to autumn.
Visits proposed from Siena
Where is Siena and map
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Sources and links
- General informations : Siena on Wikipedia
- Tourist websites and blogs : Siena’s official tourism website, Terre di Siena, tourism on the town’s website
Post about Siena
- Things to do and see in Siena
Siena deserves plenty of days to measure its charm. However, it is not a very large city and two days can be enough to bring back beautiful memories. Piazza del Campo ... - Piazza del Campo in Siena
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