Siena is a perfect medieval city, centered around the famous Piazza del Campo, where the Palio is run twice a year. A medieval parade in full costume precedes the race. Seventeen contradas compete to have their horse and jockey run a treacherous three-minute race around the ancient square. Each contrada has a special identity, colors, flag, and song. Children and adults proudly support their contrada all year long in anticipation of this exciting event.

Siena is an elegant town, from which the names burnt siena and raw siena are clearly derived. She has a long history of artistic rivalry with Florence. Siena boasts a magnificent Duomo which took over three hundred years to complete and is famous for its black and white striated marble. An artist’s dream, Siena is at once enchanted and romantic. We will take a walking tour of Siena, (comfortable shoes and ability to navigate hills a must) and sample her delicious specialties, panforte, ricciarelli and outstanding rustic cuisine.