Ciao Siena

Tuscany is made for day trips and spontaneous jaunts through the countryside and there is no better place to stop than arguably the most famous township of Siena.

When J and I arrived, we took our agritourismo owners’ advice and headed straight to the Basilica di San Francesco, the often overlooked church on the outskirts of the city. Upon entering, after our eyes adjusted, we took in the simple cavernous interior only to discover the walls were adorned with faded century old frescoes, each telling intricate stories. We continued through into the courtyard where beautiful pine trees whistled in the wind as we walked beneath the cloisters. We couldn’t believe there were still sculpture fragments from the 1300’s upon the walls.

Heading into the centre of town, it wasn’t long before we came across the Consorzio Agrario di Siena, the most incredible luxury market you could spend hours perusing. With all local products from wine and cheese to salami and bread, stacked from the floor to the ceiling, it was a foodies’ paradise.

After devouring delicious panini, we decided to head back in for seconds. This time, slices of pizza were calling our name.

It was time to experience arguably, the most iconic element of any day-trip to Siena, the Il Campo. This unique piazza is in the shape of a fan and known for its annual bareback horse race, Palio di Siena. Instantly, you are struck by the huge slant of the piazza but it only helps to take in the elegance of its surrounding architecture. The buildings are as stunning as its turquoise water feature, the Fonte Gaia.

The Pubblico Palace and Tower of Mangia border the southern side of the piazza and are unmistakable images of Siena, the latter providing the perfect birds-eye view of the city and surrounding Tuscan hills.

We ventured further south to the Piazza Mercato and were so pleased to find some of the most typically Tuscan scenes we had come across on our travels through the region.

Last on our list was the Duomo di Siena, a truly remarkable building of the most beautiful marble. There are often long lines to visit this monument so ensure you leave enough time as the façade is only the start of its beauty, Within, you will find intricate mosaic floors, a golden dome and stained glass window all worth discovering.

With a delicious dinner awaiting us at our agritourismo, it was time to head back to our little fiat and onto the Tuscan roads.

xx Carla, The Strawberry Story