SIENA THE HEART OF TUSCANY
Siena , located in the heart of Tuscany and surrounded by hills, is one of the most beautiful medieval cities in Italy.
The heart of the city is the famous Piazza del Campo , with its particular shell shape, where the famous Palio is held, one of the most important events for all Sienese. The Palio di Siena is a passionate horse race that takes place every year, in July and August and its origins seem to date back to the seventeenth century.
Siena, according to legend, was founded by Senius, son of Remus, and in the city there are several statues depicting the mythical Romulus and Remus suckled by the wolf. Piazza del Campo has been the central nucleus of Siena since the time of the Romans, who had their Forum here.
The square was repaved during the Government of the Nine, a semi-democratic group in power between 1287 and 1355, with a division into nine sections in memory of the Government and symbolizing the Madonna's cloak protecting the city.
WHAT TO SEE
The historic center of Siena is a true jewel, so much so that it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is bordered by a medieval wall, still perfectly preserved, which follows the contour of the three hills on which the city was built. The three hills are connected by three streets that intersect to form a large basin. And it is at this precise point that the magic of Siena is released, when the visitor's eyes appear on Piazza del Campo: the magnificent, unmistakable and inimitable square where the famous Palio is held every year. Despite being an iconic image, already seen countless times on TV, in magazines and travel blogs, the Campo invariably leaves open-mouthed with wonder all the people who look out to admire it for the first time.
SIENA CATHEDRAL
Siena Cathedral, whose bulk rises in the square of the same name, is one of the most notable examples of an Italian Romanesque-Gothic cathedral. According to tradition, the current one replaces a first church dedicated to Mary, built around the 9th century, on the site of a temple dedicated to Minerva. Again from news without precise documentation, we learn that the building was consecrated in 1179, in the presence of the Sienese Pope Alexander III Bandinelli, after the peace with Barbarossa.
GO TO SIENA
Driving in central Italy offers an unforgettable experience, passing through rolling hills, vineyards and medieval hilltop villages. The route winds along scenic roads immersed in greenery, with spectacular views of sunflower fields, cypress trees and olive groves, with the Apennines looming on the horizon. The natural beauty blends with the rich history and culture of the region
