BestPrivateTours.com - Siena:Medieval Gem

OVERVIEW

Siena, a powerful republic for 400 years, enjoyed its golden age from 1260 to 1348: a period of stability, prosperity and both artistic and architectural growth. Siena has largely maintained its Gothic appearance which developed during this period. The city’s historic center, a World Heritage site, is defined by UNESCO as “the embodiment of a medieval city.”

Leaving Florence in your private, air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver, you’ll travel the scenic Chiantigiana roadway that winds through the heart of the Chianti. This personal driving tour allows you easy access to this fascinating city’s historic heart and its many monuments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Banking brought Siena great wealth and power. The Sienese developed their city to reflect this prestige. The town is characterized by the warm brick facades of its Gothic architecture, the “Sienese Arch”, repeated in various forms throughout the city and its palaces and churches, decorated with paintings of the Sienese school.

Amazingly, Siena’s historic center has maintained much of its medieval character. The Piazza del Campo is one of Europe’s greatest medieval squares; the original 15th century street plan still exists; the contrade or districts are still the heart soul of the city; and many of the traditional activities are still carried out in the same areas of town as in bygone days. A visit to Siena is a charming journey back through time.