Siena and its Renaissance
The history of Siena as a free and independent municipality starts by the end of the eleventh century, when the middle class rebel against the bishops imposed by Charles V, putting an end to feudalism, and then stops with the defeat of the Sienese Ghibellines into conflict with the Guelphs of Florence, between the third and fifteenth century.
Despite the subsequent dependence from the Seigniory of Florence, the Renaissance will leave indelible and grandiose imprints on Siena.
Siena is a treasure chest full of gold, every street corner has stories to tell, each square has seen birth and death of love stories, political happenings and traditions. The Duomo, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, is one of the best examples of that era, with rich sculptural decoration by great Renaissance artists such as Donatello al Ciborio, Francesco di Giorgio, Beccafumi and of course Michelangelo.
The unique and incomparable Piazza del Campo, with its classic shell shape, is embraced by many important buildings of the Renaissance period, as the town hall dominated by the Torre del Mangia, the residence of the Seigniory and the Podestà, and the magnificent Fonte Gaia.
Another fine example of Renaissance architecture is the Palazzo Piccolomini and delle Papesse, the residence of the noble family of bankers of the Pope. Even if the Renaissance of Florence prevails over that of Siena, the truth is that the architecture and the artistic production of Siena remain among the most interesting examples for historians and tourists around the world.
Photo by Rodrigo_Soldon
About the Author
Francy Hi! My name is Francesca I love travelling, getting in touch with new lifestyles, new ways of thinking and most of all always discovering news places around the world! I like reading travel books and magazines, art and food. These are my passions that I try to share with you.
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