Siena is a larger town than the ones we have been posting on. It is famous for its Palio race. The center piazza (Palio) is divided into triangles for each competing contrade (area of the city). Ten of the 17 contrade race in a horse race called il Palio. They bring in tons of dirt around the top of the piazza for the race twice a year. The race lasts only 90 seconds but the celebrations go on. We were not there for the Palio (July 2 and August 16). The piazza normally is a place for residents and tourists to sit and sun bathe or eat a gelato or just talk with friends.
Even though Siena is large it has the normal small streets. There are some stairs but not that many.
The Duomo in Siena is nicer inside than the one in Florence. Outside they look similar (white & black marble). They designed it to be much larger than the one in Florence. It was to include the current duomo, the building next door and the piazza in-between. Funds ran out and it remained its current size. Tickets must be bought next to duomo to enter it.
Siena has great neighborhood restaurants, bars and sights. Stroll it slowly and enjoy what you see and experience.
Monday we will be going to my favorite small city in the world, San Gimignano.
George & Jo Anne
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georgefebish
Great city but like you I really love San Gimignano