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Il Campo
Siena
Situated atop three hills, Siena qualifies as Italy's ultimate "hill town." Its thriving historic center, with movie-set-worthy lanes cascading every which way, offers Italy's best medieval city experience. For those who dream of a Fiat-free Italy, Siena is a haven. Pedestrians rule in the old center of town, as the only drivers allowed are residents and cabbies. Nurse a drink on the stunning main square, wander narrow streets, tether an imaginary horse to the old metal rings, be stirred by colorful flags. While nearby Florence has the blockbuster museums, Siena has an easy-to-enjoy soul: Courtyards sport flower-decked wells, alleys dead-end at rooftop views, and today, even with all the tourists, a strong local spirit pervades.
At a Glance
▲▲▲ Il Campo Best square in Italy.
▲▲▲ Duomo Art-packed cathedral with mosaic floors and statues by Michelangelo and Bernini.
▲▲ Civic Museum City museum in City Hall with Sienese frescoes, the Effects of Good and Bad Government.
▲▲ Duomo Museum Siena's best museum, with cathedral art (Duccio's Maestá) and sweeping Tuscan views.
▲▲ Santa Maria della Scala Museum with much of the original Fountain of Joy, Byzantine reliquaries, and vibrant frescoes depicting day-to-day life in a medieval hospital.
▲ City Tower Siena's 330-foot tower climb.
▲ Pinacoteca Fine Sienese paintings.
▲ Baptistery of San Giovanni Cave-like building with baptismal font decorated by Ghiberti and Donatello.
▲ Sanctuary of St. Catherine Home of St. Catherine.
