Tuscany
by sim1
Siena is located in the beautiful region of Tuscany. This part of Italy combines wonderful hilly landscapes with picturesque historic villages, often located on some idyllic hilltop.Of course some Tuscany also has some delicious food and wine to offer. No wonder that this region is so popular. And that is actually its main disadvantages. The region is not 'unspoiled' anymore and during high season it can be very busy. But having said that, it is and will be a lovely spot to visit.
Here are some places I've visited over the years in Tuscany and might give you some suggestions for yourself when visiting this part of Italy:
Arezzo
Borgo a Mozzano
Montalcino
Monte Argentario
Montepulciano
Monteriggioni
Pisa
Pitigliano
San Gimignano
Saturnia
Siena
Sovana
You can read more about all these places on my Tuscany page
THE SWORD OF SAN GALGANO-THE REAL EXCALIBUR!
by Georgio
Really exists only one sword in the stone, all over the world.
It's S.Galgano's sword.
We find it in Tuscany, between Monticiano (Siena) and Chiusdino, near the wonderful ruins of an impressive Abbey without roof with a meadow of green grass as floor and one sword in the stone.
A lot of Britan carried in Tuscany.The sword also seems to be Arthurian.
The story
Galgano Guidotti was a knight born to rich parents in 1148. He wants to renounce the material world and also the arts of war. As sign to renounce violence, Galgano thrust the sword in the stone, adoring it as the Cross.
Later on he does some miracles and die in 1181. Was declared Saint in 1185.
Today S.Galgano Abbey, is one of the most important and beautiful Gothic buildings in Italy.....
The sword is actually contemporary to the spreading in Italy of King Arthur's legends; however it represent the opposite gesture: while King's Arthur sword was pulled out by the young future king, this one was pushed into the stone by a St Galgano.
St Galgano's sword and King's Arthur legends are not totally unrelated, however... there are links that should be explored.
World class Osso Buco
by davequ about Ristorante Il Biondo
On the other hand, this restaurant in Siena had some of the best Veal Osso Buco (one of my favorite Italian dishes) I have ever eaten in my life.
Terrific ambience sitting out on the front terrace, good service, affordable, highly recommended.
I think it is closed on Wednesdays. The specialize in pesce/seafood, but I loved the Veal Osso Buco.
Duomo
by jag17
Built between 1215 and 1263 by architect Niola Pisano. Besides being filled with Tuscan art, the floor is a mosaic of 59 etched and inlaid marble panels. The floors date from 1372-1547. Many top artists working in Siena contributed to this work. Much of the flooring is usually covered to protect it. It is uncovered from August 23rd to October 3rd in honor of the Palio.
The market on Wednesdays
by alysania
Wasn't sure if I should file this in shopping, but it really is a must see adventure. well over a hundred vendors set up shop selling anything and everything from clothes to home good and lingere around the fortezza.
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Just to the right hand vcorner is the parking area
Siena by Jelena
Pulpit, Detail
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