History of the city of Siena
Historical background of Siena
Legend has it that the city was founded by Senio, son of Remus, who was killed by his twin brother Romulus. Senio allegedly left Rome with his brother Ascanius because he was persecuted by his uncle Romulus. They found refuge in the Sienese countryside and founded the city. Commemorating the mythological foundation is the depiction of the Sienese She-wolf, which is very present in the city. One only has to walk through the squares or enter some of the buildings to discover how many references are scattered throughout Siena’s old town.
Discover the history of the city of Siena.
The Basilica of San Domenico
A very important church for Siena, closely linked to the life of St Catherine The Basilica of San Domenico stands
Chapel and Madonna of the Vow
The Sienese devotion to the Madonna has a long and fascinating history… You may be surprised to learn that in
The chapel in Piazza del Campo
In Piazza del Campo, which is the centre of political power in Siena, there’s also a corner of faith and
The Contrade of Siena
A social place and symbol of belonging for the Sienese. The term ‘contrada’ appears in Sienese sources as early as
Fontanine di Contrada
In Siena every citizen is baptized twice: in the church and then in the contrada to which they belong… with
State Archive
It safeguards the historical documents of Siena’s public bodies. The State Archive of Siena is located in Via Banchi di
