| Page Views: 158 Last Visit to Siena: - | The true star of Tuscany by Tijavi - last update: Aug 1, 2009 |
| Interior of central dome, Siena's Duomo |
The rivalry between Tuscany's two major cities - Florence and Siena - is anything but legendary. Rivals since the Middle Ages, Florence was identified with the pro-pope Guelphs while Siena sided with the pro-imperialist Ghibellines. Florence's renaissance artistic treasures compete head on with Siena's spiky gothic masterpieces. Even in this age of Serie A, a match between Fiorentina and AC Siena draws more passionate fervor from the respective fans.
The rivalry is so intense that tourists are inevitably confronted with the age-old dilemma: who is most worthy of the Tuscan crowm - Renaissance Queen Florence or Gothic Empress Siena?
My vote goes to Siena. And this has little to do with its magnificent gothic masterpieces, or even the jaw-droppingly gorgeous Duomo.
Siena's charm comes from its laidback-yet-culturally-sophisticated vibe that offers visitors lots of things to see and do - without the stress that comes from long queues at entrances to Florence's museums and the top dollar tickets that go with them (not to mention waking up at ungodly hours to beat the rush). Siena's narrow, wandering alleys are a great place to be lost in with treats waiting for the adventurous tourist in every corner, be it a handsome palazzo, a quaint osteria offering mouthwatering Tuscan specialties, or sublime views of the city and the surrounding Tuscan landscape. Not surprisingly, the more laidback ambiance engenders a more courteous, more welcoming local population (than more tourism-oriented Florence).
The best way to enjoy Siena would be to spend a few days here, and take things slow and easy, nibbling on every morsel of culture, cuisine and architecture that Siena dishes out to those with the patience to discover its many delights - and the stamina to explore its hilly terrain. |
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 Comments for Tijavi about Siena | | | | |
icunme Tue Oct 13, 2009 20:41 UTC
Outstanding insights. I have not seen the differences between Florence and Siena articulated in a better manner. Grazie for a great tour. Good foundation for my visit to both cities. | deecat Fri Oct 9, 2009 12:23 UTC
What a great page to entice first-time visitors but even better for Siena fans who have returned because they loved it as you do. Sure brought back memories and, I must admit, showed me spots I had missed. Excellent food tips, too. | Yaqui Mon Sep 21, 2009 23:43 UTC
A absolutely marvelous page. Your attention to detail is wonderful. I've truly enjoyed the tour. Your photo's are lovely too! Thank you! | kokoryko Mon Sep 14, 2009 22:18 UTC
Another beautiful page about a beautiful city, Titus! You render so well the Renaissance atmosphere of this city, and it seems you enjoyed a lot the food there! Piazza Salimbeni appears to be a “must see”! Best from here! |
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