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One of many people’s favourite things to do in Tuscany is to spend some time in Siena, a beautiful Italian town known for its rich history and picturesque views. This authentic Tuscan city features fabulous architecture, a fascinating medieval history and colourful streets filled with mouth-watering pastries and artisan shops. Keep reading for more of our top picks for things to do in Tuscany during your next visit to Siena. Piazza del Campo & Torre del Mangia Piazza del Campo, Siena’s central square, is one of the city’s main attractions. Here, you can see the beautiful marble Fonte Gaia fountain, the Gothic-style palace of Palazzo Sansedoni and the towering Palazzo Púbblico, the city’s town hall. Be sure to check out the Torre del Mangia at the far end of the square, a towering 102-metre spire dating back to medieval times. Constructed in the 1300s, adventurous visitors can dare to scale the many hundred steps to the top of the tower for breath-taking views over Siena and the countryside beyond – making this truly one of the most wonderful things to do in Tuscany. The Duomo This soaring medieval cathedral has a history dating all the way back to 1179. The structure itself was built during the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries, and features the work of some of Italy’s greatest artists from medieval and Renaissance times. It includes marble work by Giovanni Pisano, Pinturicchio’s famous frescoes and sculptures by Donatello, Gian Lorenzo Bernini and Michelangelo. The Palio The Palio is a thrilling annual sporting event in the city featuring a wild horse race through the main square, plus several exciting pageants to commemorate the day. Beginning in the Middle Ages, this celebration features Siena’s ten districts competing for a prized silk banner, as jockeys ride bareback on horses to the finish line. Colourful parades, flag throwing competitions and knights in armour line the narrow streets leading up to the race and the atmosphere is nothing short of electric. Palazzo Púbblico & Museo Civico While you’re at the town’s central square, Piazza del Campo, be sure to make a stop at the Palazzo Púbblico, the impressive town hall. Constructed in the Gothic style, this building truly is a work of art, decorated with delicate windows and arches. Inside the Palazzo Púbblico, visitors can see marvellous frescoes and a chapel too. The building’s Museo Civico is located on the top floors and features many important artefacts from Siena’s history, including paintings, sketches and even ornamental art from the Baroque and Renaissance eras. Try it Yourself Now that you’ve learned about the many sights and rich history in Siena, why not see some of them for yourself? There are many reputable local companies offering guided tours of the town. These tours are a great way to ensure that you can take in all of the important sites even if you will only be there for a short amount of time. Whether you’re looking to see famous Michelangelo sculptures at the Duomo, the charming marble fountain at the Piazza del Campo or learn more about history at the Museo Civico, there are plenty of great things to do in Tuscany in this amazing place. Author Plate Mauro Bramante is the Director of WalkAbout Florence, an independent business offering unforgettable tours and excursions around Italy including a host of things to do in Tuscnay. Whether you want to ride a Vintage Vespa, try the famous Chianti wine or get cooking with fresh local ingredients, Mauro's company promises excitement, adventure and above all, fun. If you're keen to experience the magic of Italy with the help of some passionate and knowledgeable tour guides, look no further than WalkAbout Florence for your next getaway.
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