curated by Mauro Civai

Origins of the city

Built on three hills and surrounded by a magnificent territory, Siena is one of the most beautiful cities in the world; recognized for the quality of its monuments, it has managed to conserve its essence and its mediaeval appearance.

Originally an Etruscan settlement and then a Roman colony, it was not until the mediaeval period that the city began its most significant phase of development. This was mainly due to the growing importance of the Via Francigena, the main artery that connected Rome with northern Europe. This growth eventually led to the transformation of Siena into one of the richest and most populated cities in the world and capital of a large and highly organised state.

During this period the city also developed the features and monuments which still distinguish it today: the Palazzo Publicco, the Piazza del Campo, the cathedral and the imposing city walls.

Historic events

Afflicted by the plague, penalized by a fierce rivalry with neighbouring Florence and reluctant to fall under the influence of a despot as the other main centres in Italy did at the time, the city slowly began to lose its leading role until finally it lost its independence in the mid XIV century, following defeat at the hands of Spanish armies it was incorporated into the Granducato mediceo.

During the following centuries, up until the present, the city has succeeded in retaining its precious and peculiar characteristics, continuing throughout its later history, accumulating numerous artistic and historical treasures.