Italian destinations: Siena

Italian destinations: Siena

Dear friends, it’s cold outside, so sit back with a cup of tea in your hands and let’s reminisce about someplace beautiful for sunnier days. We dedicate today to one of the most beautiful Italian destinations: Siena.

At the heat of the sunny area of Tuscany, Siena is one of the most intensively visited Italian destinations, famous for its art, architecture museums and tasty food, as well as for the Palio, the famous horse race that is held two times in a year. Will you join me on a walk through the winding streets and colorful life of Siena?

Italy abounds in legends and old stories and Siena makes no difference. Legend has it that Siena was founded by the sons of Remus, Senius and Aschius – ergo the symbol of the place is the she-wolf feeding the two brothers who founded Rome, Romulus and Remus.

The outstanding art of Siena and the Gothic architecture are accountable for its immense popularity, not to mention the city is a protected UNESCO Site. One of the most amazing buildings is the Siena Cathedral (Duomo), a Romanesque-Gothic construction begun in the 12th centuries that houses works by master Nicola Pisano, Donatello, Lorenzo Ghiberti and frescoes by Domenico Ghirlandaio. The Piazza del Campo, where you can find the Palazzo del Pubblico, is another must-see site.

Engraved in the destiny of Siena is the biannual Palio. Begun in the Feudal times, this is a traditional horse race (organized every year on the 2nd of July and on the 16th of August respectively), where the 17 original neighbourhood (contrade) compete for a painted banner (Palio) with the image of the Virgin. Large crowds gather to watch the contest and celebrate in Italian style, and you are more than welcome to join in!

The surrounding area is beautiful as well, and you can actually drive throughout the whole Italy in a good rental car or however else you may prefer.

Meredith Smith

Meredith Smith