Siena

The Tuscan city of Siena is hidden in a territory of hills, surrounded by Chianti grape vines and the valleys of Fiumi Arbia, Merse and Elsa, the Crete Senesi and the Montagnola.

Even those who know nothing about art know of Siena’s magnificent artistic patrimony. Easily Italy’s cultural hub, Siena is recognised as a World Heritage Site and is visited each year by thousands of tourists from across the globe.

Siena’s roots are ancient and the city was born under the Roman Empire by Emperor Augustus and named Saena Iulia, although there remain some historical evidence to suggest that the city may have existed during the times of the Etruscans as well. In the Middle Ages Siena became a bishopric and belonged to the Lombards and the Franks. From the 10th century, the city became an important commercial epicentre and experienced a period of growth, prosperity and expansion, while the Sienese Bankers became a major founder of the Vatican.

In 1100, during the battle between the Guelphs and Ghibellines, Siena supported the latter and found itself at war with Florence, becoming protagonists in the historic victory of the Battle of Montaperti in 1260 (a battle forever remembered by Dante Alighieri in his great works). However, only nine years after, Florence retook control of Siena, winning the Battle of Colle Val d’Elsa and creating the Government of Nine. Under Florentine control, Siena experienced a rich economic and social growth, before succumbing to the plague in 1348, which led to the collapse of the Republic of Siena and its incorporation into the Granduchy of Tuscany.

Despite being tempestuous at times, the rich history and heritage of Siena have been vital in shaping the beautiful and elegant city we see today. The buildings that adorn the picturesque city centre are symbols not only of Italy but also of European art and architecture.

A truly romantic city, Siena sweeps you up in the splendor of its monuments, which include the Piazza del Campo, Mangia Tower, the Logge Mercanzia, Palazzo Comunale, Palazzo Salimbeni, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta , the Church of the Santissima Annunziata and the Basilica of the Osservanza, just to name a few. A breathtaking experience, Siena embodies the very essence of art and culture and is a city you simply cannot miss.