Episode Overview Join us for a circular walking tour through the heart of Siena, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its medieval cityscape. This episode guides you through the "Big 10" sights of the city, starting and ending at the iconic Piazza del Campo.

Spanning approximately 2.5 km (1.5 miles), this route is designed to take between 4 to 6 hours, allowing time for museum visits. From the seat of medieval government to the spectacular "zebra-striped" Cathedral, this tour covers the essential history, art, and architecture of one of Tuscany's most treasured cities.

Tour Highlights

• Piazza del Campo: We begin at the shell-shaped brick square that serves as the heart of the city and the venue for the famous Palio horse race.

• Palazzo Pubblico & Museo Civico: A look at the seat of Siena's government, home to Ambrogio Lorenzetti's masterpiece frescoes, The Allegory of Good and Bad Government.

• Torre del Mangia: The 87-meter tower offering panoramic views of Tuscany; built to equal the height of the Cathedral to symbolize the balance of church and state powers.

• Fonte Gaia: A visit to the "Fountain of Joy" features 19th-century copies of Jacopo della Quercia’s Renaissance sculptures.

• Duomo di Siena (Cathedral): A tour of the spectacular Romanesque-Gothic cathedral, famous for its black and white marble facade and intricate etched floor panels.

• Piccolomini Library: Located inside the Duomo, this library houses Pope Pius II's book collection and features vibrant 16th-century frescoes by Pinturicchio.

• Museo dell’Opera & Il Facciatone: We explore the original facade statues and climb the "Great Wall"—the remains of an abandoned cathedral expansion that offers a stunning profile view of the Duomo.

• Battistero di San Giovanni: A visit to the Baptistery behind the Cathedral to view the baptismal font featuring works by Donatello and Ghiberti.

• Santa Maria della Scala: Originally a hospital for pilgrims and orphans, this massive complex is now a museum featuring the "Pilgrim's Hall".

Sources

• Siena - Wikipedia

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• Siena - Wikivoyage

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