Siena, located in the heart of Tuscany, Italy, is a city steeped in medieval charm and rich history. Known for its picturesque scenery, gothic architecture, and the famous Palio horse race, Siena offers a deep dive into Italian culture and tradition. The city’s historic center has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors from around the world who come to experience its well-preserved buildings and timeless beauty. Dating back to the time it rivaled Florence for political and cultural influence, Siena’s streets and squares remain mostly unchanged, providing a perfect backdrop to its vibrant annual festivals and everyday Tuscan life.
Regarded as one of Europe’s greatest medieval squares, it hosts the biannual Palio horse race. Its fan-shaped design and surrounding architecture epitomize the Tuscan medieval city.
This stunning cathedral is a masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture, featuring intricate facades, a mosaic floor revealing biblical tales, and works by Michelangelo and Donatello inside.
Siena’s historic city hall, built in the 13th century, houses the Museo Civico. The museum contains some of the most important frescoes by Ambrogio Lorenzetti and Simone Martini.
Adjacent to the Palazzo Pubblico, this bell tower offers panoramic views of Siena and its surroundings. It’s named after its first bell-ringer and stands as one of Italy’s tallest medieval towers.
A significant Gothic church known for housing relics of Saint Catherine of Siena. Its stark, imposing architecture dominates the city skyline.
A national museum featuring an extensive collection of Sienese paintings from the 12th to the 15th centuries, showcasing the evolution of medieval art in Siena.
Located at the back of the cathedral, this baptistery is renowned for its remarkable font, decorated by early Renaissance sculptors including Jacopo della Quercia.
A recently discovered archaeological site beneath the cathedral, it offers a glimpse into ancient artworks and provides historical insights about the city’s religious practices.
Dedicated to Saint Catherine of Siena, this sanctuary includes her preserved family home and a series of chapels that celebrate her life and her impact on Catholicism.
An umbrella organization that manages several of Siena’s most important museums and galleries, providing diverse insights from archaeological artefacts to contemporary artworks.