Siena's ascent to becoming a golden metropolis in Italy, despite almost constant warfare with neighbouring Florence, was suddenly blackened by a plague that decimated two-thirds of its population. Financially weakened and lacking manpower, its development was stunted. Siena is celebrated as the quintessential medieval city, strikingly original and compelling.

Enveloped by massive walls, Siena is filled with brick lanes that wind up and down three steep hills. The Piazza del Campo, located at the base of the hills, rates as one of the most pleasant public squares in Europe. The square's opus is its Gothic cathedral, which houses prized frescoes and sculptures. As important are the exceptional dining establishments, shops, scenery and atmosphere the square affords. The fierce pride of the Sienese is exhibited during July and August at the Palio horse race, an event celebrated with pageantry and zeal for over 300 years.