Stunning Siena: The Architecture of One of Italy’s Most Magnificent Cities

By Sloane Suiters

The view of Siena, Italy, taken from the rooftop of a house.

Tucked tightly into the heart of Tuscany, Italy, lies a tiny city called Siena.

Easily distinguished by its slanted streets, gothic churches, and an array of arches, Siena is full of architectural wonders.

Founded in 900 BCE, Siena was originally established as an Etruscan settlement. It endured for about 500 years until the Romans took over. Although there are Etruscan underground tombs dispersed around the city that still exist, almost none of the significant architectural sites from the Etruscans remains.

As the Roman Republic began to expand rapidly across Italy, it overtook many Etruscan lands, including Siena. Therefore, from 63 BCE to 14 CE, under the reign of Emperor Augustus, it became a Roman colony called “Saena Julia.”

Aside from its architecture, Siena is known for its stunning scenic views.

Later, during the 12th century, Siena developed into a self-governed city. During this time period, it grew rapidly, increasing trade and economic expansion.

As a result of this prosperity, Siena’s architecture truly flourished. Wealthy families constructed breathtakingly large palaces across the city, which was done to demonstrate that the city had developed into a strong economic power.

The creation of the majority of Siena’s buildings ranges from the 12th-17th century. Today, Siena’s city center is arguably one of the most well-preserved in all of Europe.

An Ambitious Undertaking

The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta took over 150 years to build.

At the summit of Siena’s tallest hill sits one of its most stunning and majestic pieces of architecture: The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. Also known as the Duomo di Siena, this profound and significant place of worship is located in what is considered to be the heart of the city.

The construction of the cathedral was an ambitious undertaking that aimed to demonstrate the riches and power of Siena’s ruling classes, while also leaving an infinite architectural legacy.

The Siena Cathedral symbolized Siena’s cultural identity and economic pride, and a representation of the city’s intellectual and artistic endeavors during the Middle Ages.

The cathedral is covered with white marble both outside and inside. The pointed arches, vaulted ceilings, and stone-carved gargoyles accurately uphold the ideals of Gothic architecture. They also serve as a testament to the wealth, power, and rich history of Siena amid the Middle Ages. Its exterior is covered in intricate marble designs and elements that clearly demonstrate the craftsmanship of its creators.

A remarkable visual contrast is produced by the use of alternating strips of white and greenish-black marble, which are eye-catching to those who pass by. Sculptures of important biblical figures and settings decorate the outside, adding depth and significance to the cathedral’s story.

The architecture across Siena also features a multitude of arches. These were first put in place to protect the structure of buildings during earthquakes, and can be spotted all across the city.

Renaissance Renovations

Upon stepping inside, one of the most distinct and noticeable features is the unique, 56-panel, marble floor. The floor consists of a multitude of marble mosaics, called the “Pavimiento del Duomo.” Each mosaic represents a different biblical story or historical event, shown in a remarkable amount of detail. “Renovated during the Renaissance, the floor features shades of white, dark green, red, black, gray, and yellow,” explained tour guide Cynthia DeLuca.

DeLuca enthusiastically shows her tour group a historical landmark on a map of Italy before beginning their tour.

DeLuca, a Siena local, has been a tour guide for over six years. When asked by a student on her tour why her job is so important to her, she responded by saying, “There is so much beauty, creativity, and excitement this city has to offer. I think it is my duty to show that to people.”

The interior of the cathedral is spacious and features a large nave, decorated by tall arches and pillars, drawing attention to the high altar. Surrounding the altar is a marble choir, embellished with complex and fascinating marble designs. Marble ornaments and detailed sculptures cover the walls.

While photography is permitted in some parts of the building, it is strongly discouraged in order to keep the color and quality of the architecture intact.

The City Square

Many tourists flock to Palazzo Pubblico, in awe of its unique shape and structure.

Constructed in the mid 1300s, Piazza del Campo is the main square of the city of Siena. One of the most stunning medieval squares in all of Europe, it serves as the primary meeting spot for locals and tourists alike. The Piazza has a downward sloping layout, designed to create an ampitheatre like setting.

In the middle of the square sits the Palazzo Pubblico. Similar to the Cathedral of Santa Maria, the architecture of the building showcases Gothic influences. The building features stone on the lower level and brick toward the top, and the shape adds a vertical element to the square’s architectural design. While it once stood as the tallest building in Siena, it is now second to Torre del Mangia, which stands at 288 feet.

Students on a tour of Siena stop at the fountain to snap a picture.

Another prominent feature of Piazza del Campo is Fonte Gaia. The fountain has a distinct sense of symbolism, making it different from the other pieces of artwork in Siena. Wolves, birds, and the cardinal Virtues are among the many diverse animal sculptures that surround the outer basin. The water in the fountain is both fresh and drinkable, with a spout located on the right side.

Costa tends to come out more often in the warmer weather, because that is when the most tourists and locals are outside.

Alec Costa, a Siena local who owns a fruit stand near Piazza del Campo, sets up shop five days a week. He explained that, “The fountain at the piazza is a beautiful central piece with so much history behind it. The designs encompassing it are one of a kind.”

It Takes a Village

Siena, Italy, is covered from head-to-toe with creative and distinct designs that make its city unique. As a result of its dedication to cultural identity and physical preservation, it has become a popular tourist attraction. The architectural history of this city continues to enthrall visitors, and is clear evidence of its enduring artistic and cultural legacy.