Siena

Siena is a city located within the region of Tuscany in Italy. It is also the capital of the province of the same name, rich with history and heritage. In fact, the magnificent structures and buildings within its historic center have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage site.

Sights & Activities

On Piazza Duomo is the city’s most prominent religious structure, the Cathedrale di Santa Maria, commonly called the Siena Cathedral. It was designed by Pisano and was built in the 13th century. The structure bears a façade replete with sculptures made the cathedral’s designer and beautiful mosaics depicting religious scenes. Next to the façade is a column bearing the sculpture of a she-wolf feeding Romulus and Remus which has became a symbol of the city. Inside, visitors will behold columns decorated with stripes of black and white marble, the colors of Siena. The inlaid marble mosaic floor of the cathedral is considered one of the most ornate in the country and perhaps in the whole world. However, a greater part of the inlaid floor is covered throughout the year and are only uncovered for a few weeks a year, often in September. There are also numerous busts decorating the nave and the presbytery. The cathedral’s dome is also an impressive sight to see, with a gilded lantern and coffers painted in blue together with attractive with golden stars. There are various works of art contained in the cathedral, including sculptures and paintings made by Bernini, Michelangelo, and Donatello. Other items not to be missed are the elaborate pulpit, also designed by Pisano, and the cathedral’s baptistery, which bears gilded brass figures made by notable 15th century sculptors.

After marveling at the architectural and artistic wonders contained at the Siena Cathedral, visitors should head out to the adjacent Piccolomini library, where they will be treated with views of stunning frescoes and illuminated choir books by Bernardino di betto, more popularly known as Pinturicchio. The subject of the frescoes is Cardinal Enea Silvio Piccolomini who became Pope Pius II.

Another historic structure worth visiting is the Palazzo del Magnifico, located at the Piazza San Giovanni. For a small admission fee, visitors are treated to a tour within one of the most opulent houses in the region. Built for a former ruler of Siena during the 16th century, the building is a fine example of Renaissance architecture on a grand scale.

The Torre del Mangia is another structure that has become a symbol of the city. Completed in 1348, it was intended to manifest Siena’s authority. Today, it is recognized as the second-highest tower in the country and visitors can climb up to its top for views of the city and its surrounding areas.

The city also has several huge events that bring visitors from all over the region and the country. Il Palio is a horse racing event held twice a year, during July and August. During the summer season, the Aromatic City is celebrated, which incorporates music performances and dances across all musical genres.

Weather

Siena enjoys a temperate climate, with no extreme changes in the city. During spring, the city and its surrounding areas become ablaze with colors and outdoor temperature become ideal for outdoor excursions. However, visitors should take umbrellas and coats along, as rainfall is expected to occur, especially during April and May. The summer months of July and August are generally considered to be hot, though the evenings can be cool enough for eating out. As autumn approaches, the temperature lowers and, once again, it becomes ideal for visiting the sights the city has to offer. As winter approaches, rainfall is expected to occur more frequently. Winter is Siena is considered to be mild, with temperature way above freezing.