Siena, a city of hills in the central part of southern Tuscany, is considered the center of medieval culture because of its rich cultural and historical heritage and carefully preserved traditions.

The magic of Siena lies in the charm of its paved streets running up and down among the medieval buildings, charming courtyards, narrow alleys and intimate squares, arches and ancient city walls, the magnificence of preserved monuments of history and art. Time seems to stand still in Siena: its historical part looks as it did when it was at its height and power in the XIII - XIV centuries.

The three hills on which the city stretches converge in its central part, where its main symbol, the city's square, which is shaped like a fan: the Piazza del Campo, is located. The center of urban life for many centuries, the square is the keeper of the oldest urban traditions even today. It is here that twice a year, in July and August, a spectacle unfolds which attracts spectators from all over the world to Siena: the famous Palio horse races. An unforgettable show, in preparation for which almost all the inhabitants of the city, divided into districts - contradas, and each nominates a representative to participate in the race.

Among the many ancient palazzos surrounding the square, the Palazzo Comunale with its adjoining Tower of Gluttony, named after its first caretaker, Giovanni di Balduccio, nicknamed "the wage eater" because he spent all his earnings in the city's many taverns, attracts particular attention. When the tower was built, protective amulets were placed at its base to keep it from falling.

At the bottom of the square the Fountain of Joy attracts attention: its peculiar shape is not at all associated with a fountain, but resembles a small pool, which refers to its original purpose: it was intended to collect water. Bas-reliefs with biblical scenes decorate its walls, and water flows from pipes sticking out of the mouths of wolves, located on both sides of the fountain.

Among the sights of the city a special place holds its Cathedral, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Built of white and dark green and black marble, the temple attracts by the beauty of its facade and the richness of its interior decoration. Michelangelo, Donatello, Jacopo della Quercia, Pinturicchio and many other famous and forgotten masters of Italian art left their mark on the walls of the cathedral. The marble floor of the cathedral is a work of art in its own right. The subjects of the mosaics made of colored marble are sibyls, allegorical figures of virtues, scenes from the Old Testament.

The Piccolomini Library, which can be accessed directly from the cathedral, can be compared to a splendid jewel inside a splendid chest. Built at the end of the fifteenth century by order of the Archbishop of Siena, the library was dedicated to his uncle, Pope Pius II, known in the world as Enea Silvio Piccolomini. The purpose of the library was not only to preserve the memory of one of the city's most prominent and enlightened citizens, but also to preserve his rich intellectual heritage, which he had collected during his stay in Rome. The walls of the library, small in size, are decorated with vivid frescoes by Pinturicchio in which the artist and his assistants depicted scenes from the life of Pius II.

Siena is a magnificent example of a medieval city, with a rich cultural heritage, unique atmosphere and authentic traditions. To touch its history, learn how the city lived in the past and experience its daily life today, come and take our tour: interesting stories, unforgettable impressions and vivid photos are guaranteed!