 Situated about 1 hour from the guest house.
The city is world famous for its artistic heritage and the considerable stylistic uniformity of its medieval urban design. It has been declared a world heritage site by UNESCO. In Piazza del Campo in Siena on 2nd July and 16th August, the traditional “Palio” is held. This bareback horse race between the various quarters of Siena monopolises the city’s attention for several days as it is not just a historical show or the re-enactment of an ancient medieval joust but the manifestation of Siena’s most ancient and deep-rooted tradition. The horse race is far from being an event that can be thrown together in a few days.
 Indeed, it is the fruit of precise and careful organisation by the city’s quarters which lead a busy social life throughout the entire year. Siena’s craftsmanship still has a strong “hand-crafted” and “family business” emphasis. In addition to the usual activities required in any city, there is a focus on those linked to restoration and the “high” arts: restorers, decorators and carpenters specialising in ancient furniture.
Siena also has a long culinary tradition, due in part, perhaps, to the richness of the medieval period and the presence of numerous taverns and inns along Via Francigena.
Churches and places of worship of artistic interest: Siena Cathedral, the Baptistry of San Giovanni, the Church of the Santissima Annunziata in Piazza del Duomo, the Basilica dell'Osservanza dedicated to San Bernardino, the Basilica of Santa Maria dei Servi, the Church of San Domenico, the Church of San Francesco, the Church of the Holy Spirit, the Oratory of San Bernardino, the Sanctuary and house of Santa Caterina and the Synagogue.
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