One of Tuscany’s most enchanting towns, Siena is a mix of both modern and medieval and offers visitors a great ambience and varied traditions. Offering a maze of colourful streets, Siena is home to one of Europe’s finest squares, the Piazza del Campo, where the famous Palio horse races are held each July and August. Its medieval centre bristles with majestic Gothic buildings while its profusion of churches and small museums harbour a wealth of artwork.

See:

• Piazza del Campo – See one of the most pleasant and atmospheric squares in Europe, Piazza del Campo. This popular site for locals and visitors alike.
• Duomo Siena (Cathedral of Siena) – Deemed as one of the most magnificent cathedrals in Italy, the Il Duomo was built over a period of two and a half centuries (1136-1382). Made of black and white marble, the cathedral of Siena is highlighted with an intricate façade of carved statues and columns.
• Fonte Branda (Branda Fountain) – This amazingly old fountain, from the 12th century, was of extreme importance during Siena’s unstable Middle Ages. The aqueducts brought water into the fortified city, which was essential to the survival of the citizens during times of war.
• Santa Maria Della Scala – Built in the 800s this place of caring was once a hospital and orphanage. Today the grand building houses the National Archaeological Museum of Siena. Step inside and see the amazing architecture and oldest Italian-made stained glass pieces, a creation of Duccio in 1288.

Experience:

• The Public Square Market (Piazza del Mercato) – This covered market, originally a cattle market, provides entertainment and various items which can be purchased on site including produce, baked goods and wine. On the third Sunday of every month, the Public Square features a treasure trove of antiques.
• Museums – Experience one of the many museums while in Siena including the Natural History Museum Fisiocritici which displays a geological, anatomical, zoological and botanical sector. The Opera della Metropolitana Museum is just one of the components of the Siena Cathedral housing precious art work from the late Middle Ages in Italy.