Having lived in Siena for about two weeks, I’ve been overwhelmed by the beauty of the city and how effortlessly life seems to run here. Moving to a new city, in an entirely new country nonetheless, has the power to make everything seem more majestic and moving than maybe it really is. It doesn't help that Siena is a medieval city and being casually surrounded by so much history has always left me kind of breathless. Although the beauty of this city is endless, and I have not been here long enough to soak it up in its entirety, I want to share four of the most beautiful sights I’ve seen so far.
Santa Maria della Scala
Although it looks like an average Siena building on the outside, the Santa Maria della Scala spans over seven levels encasing a multitude of beautiful art and history. The Santa Maria della Scala was once a hospital that also served as a hostel for the poor, orphaned and pilgrims around the 13th and 14th centuries. In the late 20th century, the hospital became a museum with each level varying from art exhibits to ancient prayer rooms. The entrance level showcases a series of detailed 15th century frescoes that explain the history behind the hospital. But, one of the most remarkable things about the building is the contrast between the ancient structure of the building with the bright, modern art that fills its walls.
Duomo di Siena
The Santa Maria della Scala’s name derives from its position being located across from the stairs (le scale) of the famous Duomo di Siena. I had seen many photos of the Duomo before I even stepped foot in Siena, but none of them do justice to the intrinsic, detailed beauty of the cathedral that can be seen in person. I’ve spent so much time admiring the Duomo from the outside, I have yet to actually make my way inside. Built between the 12th and 14th centuries, the Duomo is an example of Gothic and Romanesque architecture that can be seen in its combination of round and pointed arches on the front of the building. More Gothic features are noticeable in the cathedral’s meticulous embellishments including the carvings of the angels along the arches and columns, the celestial stained glass window and the sculpture of Romulus and Remus sitting atop a column. I have loved spending time sitting across the plaza and simply admiring all that the building has to offer before grabbing an espresso at the nearest cafe.
L'Accademia Musicale Chigiana
The Accademia Musicale Chigiana is a music school that offers master classes and also serves as a concert venue throughout the year. This might seem like a random place to find beautiful enough to include in this list, but the inside is overtly extravagant. The academy has a series of fabric wall-papered rooms that feature decades old pianos, paintings and photographs of famous alumni of the school. It’s not just the history that makes this building so amazing though, it’s the giant open windows, light flowy curtains and high painted ceilings. It’s extraordinary how the most random places, the most conventional looking buildings on the outside, can be hiding so much history and charm on the inside.
The top of any large hill
Siena exists upon three large hills, which might make for some sore calves at the beginning of any journey, but it also makes for some amazing views every time you reach the top. On my small hike to school I am treated with one of the most amazing views of Siena I’ve found so far. From the top of the hill, both the city and some nature are visible, which, when slightly covered in morning fog, makes for a refreshing start to the day. But no matter where you are in the city, if you find a high point you are guaranteed a breathtaking overlook of all that Siena is.
