[World Heritage Site] What is the historic centre of Siena? | Visit the most beautiful square in the World!

The Historic Centre of Siena, located in the Tuscany region, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site registered in 1995. Built on a gently sloping hill, Siena's old town is known for its distinct and beautiful brown hues—so much so that there's even a paint color called "Siena." For many years, Siena had a rivalry not only for dominance but also for beauty with neighboring Florence.

With attractions like the world-renowned Piazza del Campo, the magnificent Siena Cathedral, and the traditional Palio horse race, Siena is a city full of charm. In this article, we'll introduce the UNESCO World Heritage Site: the Historic Centre of Siena.

What is the Historic Centre of Siena?

Located about 50 km south of Florence, Siena has one of the most graceful atmospheres in Tuscany. The city feels like stepping back into the Middle Ages.

Since around the 12th century, a civic government known as the Comune was established, and Siena thrived as an autonomous city-state and a hub for commerce and finance. For several centuries, the Comune was led by wealthy merchants and bankers, and during the 13th and 14th centuries, Siena flourished as a financial center of Europe. Its rival during this period was Florence, with which it clashed frequently. The Siena Cathedral was a unifying construction built by the citizens during these struggles.

As you walk through the city of Siena, you'll see various flags hanging throughout the streets. These are the banners of the different Contrade, or city districts, each bearing its own emblem. Siena hosts the famous traditional festival "Palio" twice a year, on July 2 and August 16. The main event is a competitive horse race among the Contrade.

In the Palio, the outer edge of Piazza del Campo is covered with dirt, and horses race at full speed around it. This dynamic and historic event has been held since 1644 and is one of Siena’s most beloved traditions. Now, let’s take a stroll through the Historic Centre of Siena.

Access to the Historic Centre of Siena

Although you can reach Siena from Florence by train, buses are more convenient because the train station is located far from the Historic Centre. From Florence, a direct express bus takes about 70 minutes, and even local buses take around 90 minutes to arrive.

Highlight ①: Piazza del Campo

When visiting the Historic Centre of Siena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, your first stop should be “Piazza del Campo.” Known as “the most beautiful square in the world,” it is fan-shaped and gently slopes toward its base, creating a unique architectural beauty.

Looking around the square, you’ll find buildings like the 14th-century City Hall and the Torre del Mangia, the square’s symbolic bell tower. Visitors gather here to dine at the restaurants or relax in the cafés facing the square. On pleasant days, you’ll even see people lying directly on the ground. Shops around the square sell photos of the Palio horse race and flags representing Siena’s “contrade” (neighborhood districts).

Highlight ②: Torre del Mangia

To take in panoramic views of this beautiful World Heritage city, climb the Torre del Mangia, the brick tower adjacent to the Palazzo Pubblico (City Hall) in Piazza del Campo. In medieval Europe, building tall towers was fashionable as symbols of liberty and power. From the 102-meter-high tower built in the 14th century, you can enjoy spectacular views of the square below, the terracotta rooftops of the old town, and the rolling hills of Tuscany in the distance. Note: There is no elevator, and the narrow staircase can be challenging, especially when passing others.

While you're there, don’t miss the Civic Museum inside the Palazzo Pubblico. Highlights include frescoes like “Maestà,” “Effects of Good Government,” and “Effects of Bad Government,” as well as other artworks and sculptures.

Highlight ③: Siena Cathedral (Duomo)

Standing on the highest of Siena’s three hills is the “Siena Cathedral (Duomo),” a structure expanded and remodeled several times throughout history. While the overall design is Romanesque, the façade is a Gothic masterpiece constructed with white, red, and black marble.

The interior is equally striking with alternating black and white marble stripes. The cathedral’s most important feature is its marble mosaic floor, considered a priceless piece of art. It was created using the sgraffito technique—cutting lines into the marble after assembling images from intricately shaped pieces. The floor depicts 56 scenes, including biblical stories, and is a must-see if you visit during the limited time it is uncovered each year.

Notes

If you visit the Siena Cathedral while exploring the World Heritage Historic Centre, don’t miss the stunning interior decorations as well as the magnificent façade. However, note that the marble mosaic floor is usually covered to prevent damage. It is revealed only during scheduled periods, so be sure to check in advance.

Summary

As of January 2018, Italy holds the world record with 53 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. While walking through Siena’s historic city, you’ll sense a refined atmosphere and a consistent aesthetic, a reflection of the pride the Sienese people have had in their city since medieval times.

Siena’s specialties include Tuscan olive oil, wine, and cheese. But one especially iconic treat is “Panforte,” a dense cake filled with dried fruits, nuts, and honey. It’s rich, filling, and makes an excellent souvenir thanks to its long shelf life.

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[World Heritage Site] What is the historic centre of Siena? | Visit the most beautiful square in the World!