Even just looking at the photos of Piazza del Campo, I get ‘goosebumps’ and already have the desire to visit again this amazing city with it’s fantastic atmosphere, culture and history!

If you can’t tell already, it’s my favourite Tuscan city and with some much on offer to visit, see or just take in…..I don’t think I’ll ever tire of the city…. 

As night descends, the atmosphere turns even more magical and with the upcoming festive season, it is another place that offers unforgettable events,

Christmas markets, musical concerts in the piazza and memories that will last a lifetime!

Here we explore some of Siena’s highlights - and places that we just can’t resist once in the town

Palazzo Papesse, located in Siena, Italy, is a historic building that reflects the artistic and cultural splendor of the Renaissance period. Originally constructed in the 14th century, it served as the residence of Pope Pius II's family, the Piccolomini. The Palazzo is an exemplary representation of Gothic architecture, featuring intricate facades and elegant interiors.

In the 20th century, it was entrusted to the city of Siena, serving as a contemporary art gallery. The building has hosted numerous exhibitions, merginghistorical significance with modern artistic expressions. Its blend of past and present makes Palazzo Papesse a vital landmark in Siena's cultural landscape.

Palazzo Papesse, a historic landmark in Siena, Italy, is currently utilized as a contemporary art gallery, providing a dynamic space for exhibitions and cultural events. Originally built in the 14th century and serving as a residence for the Piccolomini family, the Palazzo has undergone various transformations, reflecting the city’s rich artistic heritage.

 It served as the headquarters of the Banca d'Italia from 1936 until the 1990s. Today, it stands as a pivotal center for the promotion of modern art, welcoming both local and international artists.

The Palazzo Papesse is known for its commitment to innovative and thought-provoking exhibitions that challenge conventional artistic narratives. It frequently hosts a variety of contemporary art forms, including installations, video art, and performance pieces. This engaging environment attracts a diverse audience, fostering dialogue between the artwork and the visitors.

Currently, Palazzo Papesse is featuring an exciting exhibitiontitled "Visions of the Future," which explores themes of identity, technology, and the environment through the lens of contemporary artists.

The exhibition showcases works from both established and emerging artists, highlighting their unique interpretations of current societal challenges. Visitors can experience a variety of mediums, including paintings, sculptures, and multimedia installations that provoke thought and inspire discussion.

The Altana, or rooftop terrace, of Palazzo Papesse in Siena offers a unique vantage point for both the city's historical landscape and its scientific legacy.

This architectural feature, typical of Sienese palaces, provided residents with an open space for relaxation and social gatherings, as well as a place to observe the surrounding environment.

Due to the strong conncetion between Galileo Galilei and the Piccolomini family, the legend says he “used” the altana to abserve the sky and go on with his studies on Astronomy, afetr he has been “SCOMUNICATO” BY THE CHURCH.

In my opinion, due to the specatlaur view over the roofs of the city, up to the “Torre del Mangia”, the visit of altana worths the full ticket.

The Piccolomini family, a powerful noble lineage in Italy, played a pivotal role in the history of Siena and Pienza. Originally from the region of Tuscany, the family gained prominence in the 15th century, especially with the election of Enea Silvio Piccolomini as Pope Pius II. This elevation led to significant architectural contributions, notably the redesign of Pienza, which became a model of Renaissance town planning. The family's influence extended beyond politics; they were avid patrons of arts and culture, leaving a lasting legacy in both Siena and Pienza.

Today, their contributions are celebrated through various monuments, including the Piccolomini Library in Siena Cathedral.

The Synagogue of Siena, a remarkable example of Jewish heritage in Italy, is situated in the historic city. Built in the early 18th century, this synagogue showcases a unique blend of Baroque and Neoclassical styles.

The Jewish community in Siena has a richhistory, dating back to the Middle Ages, although it faced periodsof hardship. The synagogue serves not only as a house of worshipbut also as a cultural center, housing an important museum that displays artifacts and documents from the Jewish history of Siena. Visitors can appreciate both the architectural beauty of the synagogue and its significance in preserving the Jewish heritage.

Santa Maria della Scala, located in Siena, is one of the oldest hospices in Europe, dating back to the 9th Originally serving as a charitable institution for pilgrims and the sick, it became a pivotal center for social welfare. The building has undergone various transformations over the centuries, evolving from a hospital into a cultural and artistic venue. Today, it houses a museum that showcases artworks, historical artifacts, and exhibitions illustrating its rich past. The complex stands as a testament to Siena’s commitment to compassion and care over the centuries, reflecting the city’s historical development.

The Chigi Saracini family has a storied history that intertwines with the cultural and political landscapes of Siena and Rome. The family's origins trace back to the 14th century when they emerged as a prominent noble clan in Siena. They gained significant wealth and influence through banking and trade, establishing themselves as key players in the political and economic arenas of the time.

One of the most notable figures in the Chigi Saracini lineage is Agostino Chigi, born in 1466. A wealthy banker and patron of the arts, Agostino wielded considerable influence in Renaissance Rome. His extensive connections allowed him to sponsor some of the era'sgreatest artists, including Raphael and Michelangelo. The Chigi family’s residence in Rome, known as the Palazzo Chigi, became a hub of artistic and cultural patronage, reflective of the family’s commitment to the arts.

The Chigi Saracini family’s impact extended to Siena, where they remained deeply rooted in the city's history and cultural development. In the 19th century, the family made a significant contribution to Sienese culture by acquiring the Palazzo Saracini. This beautiful building became the seat of the Accademia Chigiana, a prestigious music academy founded in 1932 by the noted conductor and composer Franco Ferrara. The academy has since attracted talented musicians and distinguished faculty, further solidifying the family’s legacy in the realm of music and the arts.

Today, the Chigi Saracini family continues to play a role in promoting the cultural heritage of Siena and Rome. Their contributions to architecture, music, and the arts remain significant. The Palazzo Chigi in Rome and Palazzo Saracini in Siena stand as testaments to their enduring legacy, showcasing the historical significance of the family in the broader context of Italian history.

The Chigi Saracini family's rich narrative reflects the dynamic interplay between wealth, power, and cultural patronage in Renaissance Italy. Their dedication to the arts has left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of both Siena and Rome, ensuring that their legacy endures through the centuries.

Palazzo Chigi Saracini, located in the heart of Siena, is an architectural gem that embodies the rich history and cultural heritage of the city. 

Constructed in the 12th century, the building is notable for its stunning blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles, showcasing the craftsmanship and artistic sensibilities of its time. Originally built as a residence for the Chigi family, a powerful and influential noble lineage, the palazzo has undergone various transformations over the centuries.

The palazzo itself is adorned with beautiful frescoes, intricate stuccoes, and elegant furnishings that reflect the opulence of its historic past.

The Great Hall, with its grand ceiling and exquisite decor, serves as a focal point for various cultural events, enabling visitors to appreciate both the beauty of the architecture and the significance of the arts nurtured within its confines.

In addition to its musical contributions, Palazzo Chigi Saracini regularly hosts art exhibitions, lectures, and cultural programs that celebrate the intersection of music and visual arts.

This dynamic space not only preserves the historical legacy of the Chigi family but also serves as a modern cultural hub that promotes creativity and artistic expression.

Today, Palazzo Chigi Saracini stands as a testament to Siena's rich artistic heritage and its continuing influence on contemporary culture.

As one of the city's most cherished landmarks, it invites visitors to explore its history while experiencing the ongoing vibrancy of its cultural offerings.

A few years ago, a new cafè on the ground floor has become my favourite place where drinking a tea and reading, in a special and unique place.

Close by, on piazza Postierla, the people from Siena are proud to show you the smallest window in the world, set on Palazzo Della Rovere (see picture).