|
|
|
|
|
|
[Regions of Italy] 
[Back to Tuscany]
Capital of the unofficial province of Chianti, Siena is surrounded on all sides by rolling hills blanketed with emerald-green vineyards.
Siena's cathedral is among the most exquisite in all Italy. Here it is seen from the Mangia Tower.
Three closer views of the cathedral. Begun in 1229, it was never completely finished, but work continued steadily for nearly 200 years. Its interior is every bit as extravagant as the façade.
Siena's most famous landmark is Piazza del Campo, where the famed Palio horse race and pageant are held each year in July and August. Palazzo Sangedoni, which curves around the northeastern corner of the square, was built in 1216 and remodeled in 1339.
Across the square from Palazzo Sangedoni, the Mangia Tower stands 300 feet tall and is named after its first bell-ringer, Mangiaguadagni. Built between 1338 and 1348, it houses a vast collection of unforgettable art works.
The southwest corner of Piazza del Campo.
The cathedral is clearly visible behind the buildings lining Piazza del Campo. This view gives a clear idea of how small Siena really is.
Palazzo Salimbeni is the headquarters of Italy's oldest bank, Monte dei Paschi di Siena. Built in the 14th century and enlarged about a hundred years ago, it has extremely graceful three-mullioned windows on the second floor, beneath an imposing crenelated roof.
Seen from the Mangia Tower, the church of San Domenico stands at the edge of the dramatic Fontebranda Valley. Its rather stark Gothic exterior, dating from 1225, belies the many magnificent art treasures displayed within.
San Gimignano's Twin Towers.
In San Gimignano, every street leads to a tower (or two!).
Rooftops and towers take on an even more romantic aura when seen from the ancient city walls.
[Regions of Italy] [Back to Tuscany]