Siena - Step back in time
Siena Cathedral
Final destination: Siena
When Cori and our two children visited Villa Chiara on our way to Siena we were stunned by the beauty of the rolling hills and the quaint village of Pienza located south of Siena. This chic Tuscan villa with its immense pool and fantastic views made us want to stay a couple of days but we had to hit the road again to see more villa rentals.
As we made it to Siena late afternoon we thought Siena still looks and feels like a medieval town. Its stone and brick streets with high brick buildings, slender arches, and narrow alleys and squares give it an ancient charm. It is small compared to Florence, has a small town friendly and familiar feel, and is quite easy to see on foot. And of course that kind of a tour easily lends itself to the spontaneous enjoyment of numerous cafes, bars, bakeries, and designer shops.
Villa Chiara, Pienza
Piazza del Campo, Where it all happens
Piazza del Campo is the center of the town plan, with all the streets radiating from here. This square is on a slight slope, suggesting an amphitheatre, and is the site for Palio. The famous buildings surrounding the square form a shell where city life originates. The most famous of these buildings is the Palazzo Publico with the Tower of Mangia, the best example of 14th century civil architecture. It was here that the Sienese faced the most important events in their history, bringing both rejoicing and suffering. Our clients enjoy staying at Il Palazzino located only a few hundred meters from the square.
Piazza del Campo
Art, Art and more Art!
Though Siena is a medieval town, it is mostly a town of art. Besides outstanding architecture and fountains displayed throughout the city, much of the artistic masterpieces of sculpture, painting, and gold work is in the interior of the Cathedral and other churches, as well as the museums. There is also an original and renowned school of sculpture, one of the best in Italy, as well as the Accademia Musicale Chigiana, which has exceptional importance among Italian musical institutions.
I recommend a minimum of 2 days inside Siena, time enough to tour the streets on foot as well as view some of the artistic masterpieces housed here. The Cathedral is an absolute must-see, being one of the best known and most magnificent cathedrals in Europe. Here you will view architectural features at their best as well as frescoes, sculpture, and painting. Such famous names as Michelangelo, Martini, Vecchietta, Pisani, Duccio, and Pietro have graced the interior.
Fountain in Siena
Our Rentals in the Siena region: The best way to explore and Relax
RentAvilla Tuscan villas and apartments make Siena easy to enjoy. We offer many accommodations both inside the walls as well as in the countryside surrounding. If you drive, it's simple and straight forward. Large parking lots located at the base of this hill town make it easy to leave your car and take the large and expeditious escalators up into town. Signs and information centers give easy directions. No matter the season, Siena is always a welcome stop!
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