Tuscany's Italian municipality emerges asEurope's high-demand urban center
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Siena, a city steeped in history and beauty, is located approximately 70 kilometers south of Florence in Tuscany. This medieval gem attracts residents and visitors alike, both day and night, for its unique atmosphere and well-preserved architecture.
The heart of Siena is the stunning Piazza del Campo, famous for its unique star-shaped plan and divided into nine sectors. This central square is a great place to relax at a café or wine bar while admiring the beautiful russet stone and lively atmosphere. It also hosts the historic Palio horse race, an incredible sporting and cultural event held each 2nd July and 16th August, where the historic districts of Siena, known as the contrade, compete in a horse race on the Piazza del Campo.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Siena is the Siena Cathedral, also known as the Duomo di Siena. This magnificent Gothic cathedral features an impressive façade, intricate mosaic floors, and important artworks by Donatello, Michelangelo, and Pinturicchio. The cathedral complex includes the Baptistery, Crypt, Piccolomini Library (with vibrant frescoes), Museo dell'Opera, and the Oratory of San Bernardino.
Climbing the Torre del Mangia, a 102-meter tall tower next to the Palazzo Pubblico, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Siena’s rooftops and the rolling Tuscan countryside. The Palazzo Pubblico and Museo Civico, located on Piazza del Campo, are also worth a visit, famous for their frescoes and historical significance as the seat of Siena’s government.
Other must-see attractions in Siena include the Fonte Gaia, a beautiful historic fountain dating back to 1419 located in Piazza del Campo, and the Sanctuary of Saint Catherine and San Domenico Church, places connected to Siena’s patron saint. The Facciatone Viewpoint, part of the unfinished expansion of the Duomo, offers exceptional views and a glimpse into Siena’s historical ambition halted by the Black Death.
The University of Siena, founded in the 13th century, adds an academic and lively dimension to the city, blending tradition with contemporary dynamism. Siena's medieval appearance was preserved due to the halt in construction caused by the Black Death, resulting in a near-complete stoppage of major construction projects.
In recent years, Siena has been recognised as one of the best cities to visit in Europe. In 2021, it ranked 6th among the best cities to visit in Europe according to readers of Travel + Leisure. Siena's well-preserved medieval architecture, winding cobblestone streets, and vibrant public squares make exploring the city feel like stepping back in time, providing both historical insights and scenic beauty in Tuscany.
[1] Piazza del Campo [2] Siena Cathedral [3] Palio di Siena [4] Siena [5] UNESCO World Heritage Site - Historic Centre of Siena
Siena's in-flights have been Peccati di Gioia Airport, which is about an hour away, the city's main transportation hub for those who prefer to travel. As one explores Siena's lifestyle, it's evident that the travel back in time through the well-preserved medieval architecture seamlessly blends with the contemporary spirit brought by the University of Siena and the lively events like the Palio di Siena.
