A charming medieval town, enclosed in the heart of Tuscany, which boasts corners of extraordinary beauty. These simple features would be enough to make Siena a destination to discover in all its aspects. But there are many more reasons to give yourself a stay in Siena, at least 10. And they have to do with the history, cuisine and traditions of a place that has always fascinated, involves and amazes.
Credits: Flickr, autore Matteo Corna, https://flic.kr/p/ndB7sB
The atmosphere of Piazza del Campo
Without doubt, this is the symbol of Siena: when you arrive in this square, time seems to stop. Its characteristic shell shape, on which stands the Torre del Mangia, makes it unique in its kind. Center of life of the town for centuries, today Piazza del Campo is the scene of the famous Palio and many other events.
The view from the Torre del Mangia
This tower, built around the middle of the XIV century, offers the opportunity to enjoy a breathtaking scenery from the top of its 102 meters. A view that from Piazza del Campo embraces the roofs of the city to the surrounding countryside. 88 steps for a valid reward.
The art of the Civic Museum
Palazzo Pubblico is another symbol of Siena. It overlooks Piazza del Campo and today houses the Town Hall and the Civic Museum. Here you can admire the masterpieces of Sienese art, including the “Maestà” by Simone Martini.
The details of the Duomo
Credits: Flickr, autore Graeme MacLean, https://flic.kr/p/XnUbXb
A majestic building in Romanesque-Gothic style that holds many treasures. The exterior of the Cathedral, which expresses its magnificence, encloses an interior characterized by priceless works of art and a beautiful floor, particular both for the technique with which it was made and for the large scenes depicted there.
The Wednesday market
Every Wednesday from 7:30 am until 2:00 pm, near the Medici Fortress, the traditional market takes place with hundreds of stalls, including typical products. A way to learn more about the daily life of the city.
The flavors and aromas of Sienese cuisine
The croutons with liver, the slices of bread with the black cabbage, the pici with aglione, the malfatti pasta, the fagioli all’uccelletta (a dish with beans), the scaloppine alla senese (a kind of meat). Not forgetting desserts, such as Ricciarelli, Cavallucci and Panforte. These are some of the local speciies to taste: because food is an important part of the city’s heritage.
The tastiness of typical products
Cheeses, cured meats, extra-virgin olive oil and, of course, the wines: first of all, Chianti dei Colli Senesi DOCG. The souvenirs to bring back after a visit to Siena are indeed tasty and fragrant.
Relax in the Orti dei Tolomei
The countryside in the heart of Siena. Olives and fruit trees for a small space in which to rest, take a little break, let the children play. With an amazing view of the center.
The history of Orto de’ Pecci
Very close to Piazza del Campo, this corner of greenery has been the protagonist of various events that are rooted in distant eras. Today Orto de’ Pecci it is an educational farm and hosts a medieval and organic garden.
4 Unesco sites at a short distance
The historic center of Siena has been included among the UNESCO World Heritage sites. Like that of San Gimignano and Pienza, in addition to the Val d’Orcia landscape. The surroundings of Siena, in fact, reserve pleasant surprises.
Credits preview photo: Flickr, autore Thomas Quine, https://flic.kr/p/so5oNd
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