Siena

Located in the heart of Tuscany, Siena ranks among the most beautiful cities in the region and also boasts some of the Italy’s best preserved medieval architecture. Legend states that the town was founded by Senius, son of Remus (twin brother of Romulus, founder of Rome) which explains the city’s symbol of the she-wolf suckling twins. In reality Siena was first settled by the Etruscans but became a Roman military colony named Sena Julia in the 1st century BC.

The building of the Via Francigena, the main road from Rome to France and a busy pilgrimage and trade route aided Siena’s growth during the Middle Ages and the town became an independent city state with thriving industries in textiles and banking industry which provided employment and security to its citizens and helped the city to flourish.

Siena’s wealth and success rivalled that of Florence and the 13th and 14th centuries saw the two cities in continuous battle for power. During this time many of the city’s magnificent buildings and artworks were produced while Siena become the most important city in Tuscany. However the arrival of the plague in 1348 marked the start of Siena’ slow decline which culminated when Siena was conquered by Florence in 1555. 

Today tourism represents Siena’s main source of income. Its medieval city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the historical, twice yearly, Palio horse race is famous throughout the world. Although sometimes overlooked in favour of Florence, Siena is a lively yet sophisticated city, steeped in culture and tradition and is an increasingly popular choice for both italian and foreign homebuyers.

The city itself is situated on a Y-shaped ridge and spreads over three hills, expanding into the adjacent valleys. The fortified old town is divided into 17 contrade or neighbourhoods, each depicted by its own symbol and crest. Rivalry between the districts is fierce, particularly during the Palio, which sees ten of the neighbourhoods compete in the twice-yearly horse race around Siena’s central square, the Piazza del Campo.

Who Lives in Siena?

Siena is a good choice for buyers wishing to combine easy access with the stunning Tuscan countryside with relaxed city life while still being reasonable close to the coast and international transport links. The town’s high student population makes it a lively and exciting place to be and the traditional surroundings and customs give an authentic glimpse into Italian life. Aside from apartments around the town, few of which can boast the view of Piazza del Campo, nearby rural areas offer plenty of grand estates, luxury villas and rustic farmhouses immersed in the picture perfect landscape.