If you need convincing, here are ten great reasons to find a villa rental in Siena and to get planning a trip to the city as soon as possible...
1. The Historic Centre
Incredibly rich and interesting historic centres are not uncommon all around Tuscany. However, the UNESCO awarded historic centre of Siena is one of the best preserved and most beautiful among them all. A Gothic masterpiece that was created in competition with Florence, the city largely reflects the period between the 12th and 15th centuries today. The city had substantial influence on art, architecture and town planning during the Middle Ages, both in Italy and elsewhere in Europe and is a true gem.
1. The Historic Centre
Incredibly rich and interesting historic centres are not uncommon all around Tuscany. However, the UNESCO awarded historic centre of Siena is one of the best preserved and most beautiful among them all. A Gothic masterpiece that was created in competition with Florence, the city largely reflects the period between the 12th and 15th centuries today. The city had substantial influence on art, architecture and town planning during the Middle Ages, both in Italy and elsewhere in Europe and is a true gem.
2. The Cathedral
The stunning Cathedral of Siena, another Gothic masterpiece in its own right, deserves a mention. Built between 1215 and 1263, it was designed by Nicola Pisano and continued under his son, Giovanni. The upper half of the facade was added in the 14th century and plans were considered to transform the church into a giant spectacle that could even rival St. Peter's in Rome but, sadly, it was never completed.
Despite this, it is still an elaborate and soaring beauty with impeccable embellishment inside and out and works of art by the likes of Donatello and Bernini.
3. Catherine of Siena's Mummified Head
A rather macabre sight, this incredible relic is another must-see in the city and another string to its bow. Located in an ornate reliquary in the Basilica San Domenico, the mummified head of this local saint was all that could be snuck back to her hometown from Rome and is an important pilgrimage site and one of the most intriguing things in the city.
Those of religious devotion or who are intrigued by the bizarre will find the object fascinating.
4. Great Wines!
While great wines aren't uncommon in Tuscany, Siena, in particular, is surrounded by fertile land and many different types of wine are produced in the surrounding area.
The stunning Cathedral of Siena, another Gothic masterpiece in its own right, deserves a mention. Built between 1215 and 1263, it was designed by Nicola Pisano and continued under his son, Giovanni. The upper half of the facade was added in the 14th century and plans were considered to transform the church into a giant spectacle that could even rival St. Peter's in Rome but, sadly, it was never completed.
Despite this, it is still an elaborate and soaring beauty with impeccable embellishment inside and out and works of art by the likes of Donatello and Bernini.
3. Catherine of Siena's Mummified Head
A rather macabre sight, this incredible relic is another must-see in the city and another string to its bow. Located in an ornate reliquary in the Basilica San Domenico, the mummified head of this local saint was all that could be snuck back to her hometown from Rome and is an important pilgrimage site and one of the most intriguing things in the city.
Those of religious devotion or who are intrigued by the bizarre will find the object fascinating.
4. Great Wines!
While great wines aren't uncommon in Tuscany, Siena, in particular, is surrounded by fertile land and many different types of wine are produced in the surrounding area.
The most famous are Brunello and Rosso di Montalcino, Nobile di Montepulciano, Chianti Classico, Chianti Colli Senesi and Vernaccia. A visit to Siena means day-trips to local vineyards to learn about the wines and taste them can be readily arranged and the wines in local restaurants will always be of a high calibre.
5. The view from the Torre del Mangia
The Torre del Mangia, located in the Piazza del Campo is a 102 tall tower that can be climbed and, at the top of the 400 step trek, you'll find one of the best views over Tuscany – well worth the sweat and with plenty of bars and restaurants back down in the piazza to refresh oneself afterwards, it is perfectly located for recuperating after the climb.
5. The view from the Torre del Mangia
The Torre del Mangia, located in the Piazza del Campo is a 102 tall tower that can be climbed and, at the top of the 400 step trek, you'll find one of the best views over Tuscany – well worth the sweat and with plenty of bars and restaurants back down in the piazza to refresh oneself afterwards, it is perfectly located for recuperating after the climb.
Of course, there are more reasons to visit Siena so be sure to read on to the next post and discover more things to fall in love with about this beautiful city in Tuscany.
Photo credits
picture 2: Cerrigno / CC BY-SA 3.0
picture 2: Cerrigno / CC BY-SA 3.0