SIENNA

Sienna - what a really lovely city.  It is so easy to say that here in Tuscany with each city built out of the local red brick and the faded, sunny colours of the houses.  Still the main piazza of Sienna must be one of the most beautiful in the world, it looks like a large scallop shell    Most people think of it as the place where the huge, famous horse race takes place every year when each tiny district (contrada) puts all their faith on a daredevil rider who careens around the area at high speed bareback wearing the colours and emblem of his contrada.  There is huge rivalry and the only rule is that they are not allowed to touch each others reins.
The city is medieval and almost the size of Paris.  Most of the central area is for pedestrians only.  Again most of the greatest artists have left their works in the great Churches here in the paintings, frescoes and statues.  It is said that Wagner cried when he came to visit the absolutely wonderful Cathedral saying that it provoked the most emotion of any building he has ever seen.

The Campo

The cathedral

plaza del Duomo

 Inside and out there are bands of black and white marble and this is even continued in the pavements
and archways.  The eyes don't know where to look.  The Crypt is fully frescoed and there's still the Baptistery, library and Oratory to visit with all their treasures.

 

inside

lovely view