Historic Centre of Siena
The historical centre of Siena is a pearl of extraordinary beauty among Italian medieval cities, as it has been exceptionally well maintained and preserved. Defying the passage of time, it preserves the city’s historical atmosphere.
A walk through the historic centre of Siena
The historical centre of Siena is one of the city’s most iconic and evocative attractions. Renowned for its extraordinary architectural beauty, as you walk around the old town it is impossible not to be awestruck by the historical monuments, to visit the churches and museums, taste some typical dishes and appreciate local handicrafts. The historical centre is spread over three hills and comprises 17 contrades, each of which contains is a little world in itself, with its own symbols, churches and traditions.
Piazza del Campo is the fulcrum around which the inner city is spread. It is in this very square that the Palio di Siena, known and appreciated all over the world, takes place every year. Among the most famous monuments in Siena are the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the Duomo, a Gothic-style church built between the 12th and 13th centuries. The marble, frescoes and decorations that embellish it make it a must-see attraction. Inside you can find works of art by Donatello and Michelangelo. Standing 88 metres high, the Torre del Mangia, from which one can enjoy a spectacular view of the entire city and its surroundings, is located right in the historical centre.
What makes the historical centre so beautiful and special it that is contains not only churches and monuments but also taverns and shops, where you can taste typical dishes and buy some local handicrafts. In 1995, Siena was elected a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its beauty and the way the wonderful historical centre has been preserved.
Eating in the historical centre of Siena
Trying the real cuisine of Siena is an experience not to be missed during your visit to the historical centre. Scattered here and there, you can find numerous inns offering traditional dishes with authentic flavours that warm the heart. Genuine flavours born of simple but very high-quality ingredients, which is why the dishes made from these flavours are very reminiscent of those served up by our grandmothers for Sunday lunch. Sitting down to eat in Siena is a moment for socialising, bringing us into close contact with the roots of this beautiful land, which gave rise to these dishes which, despite the passage of time, maintain the taste of simplicity and love for the products of the land.
Among the dishes that you absolutely cannot miss are: ribollita, a traditional soup of vegetables and stale bread; crostini di fegatini served with crispy bread, perfect for an aperitif or appetiser; pappardelle al sugo di lepre is also a must. For dessert lovers, Siena boasts a wide choice of traditional sweets: ricciarelli, almond biscuits with an ancient history behind them, and panforte.
The beauty of the historical centre and the tranquil atmosphere of the town make Siena the ideal destination for a bit of relaxation, perfect for lovers of art and walks, but also for lovers of traditional food and fine wines, wines that fill not only the glass but also the hearts of those who decide to spend a few days in this beautiful city.