Are you looking to explore the history of Siena through the ages? There are a number of historical destinations in Siena including the time-honored buildings, monuments, palaces, and parks where you can learn about the glorious past of Siena. The presence of these historical sites and museums will take you on a walk through Siena ‘s rich history.
If you are willing to have an in-depth historical information about Siena, we recommend that you take a wonderful guided tour to cover the major historical attractions. Also, check the opening and closing time for each so that you can organize your time. Make sure that you go through the complete list of historical places in Siena for a great trip!
Top Historical Places in Siena
Let's witness the history of Siena with these top historical places - monuments and landmarks:
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Siena Cathedral
(1799 Votes)
Located close to the Piazza del Campo, Siena Cathedral is a beautiful gothic building that has the stamp of artistes like Pisano, Donatello and Michaelangelo. A jaw dropping exterior facade prepares you for the ornate interiors that are decorated with white and green marble and magnificent artworks. Everywhere you look, intricate craftsmanship reveals itself; whether it is in the paintings in t...Read more -
Abbazia Di San Galgano
(1301 Votes)
The majestic ruins of Abbey of San Galgano were found in the valley of the river Merse. It was built by the Cistercian monks and was dedicated to St. Galganus. This 13th century abbey was built in the gothic style and was once a wealthy, thriving church that was later left to ruins until recent restorations. The abbey declined in the 16th century due to a long period of corruption. As of now, a...Read more -
Mangia Tower Or Torre Del Mangia
(2376 Votes)
Located in Piazza del Campo, the Mangia Tower was originally built between 1338 to 1348. At that time, it had the pride of being one of the tallest towers of medieval Italy. It stands at a commanding height of 289 feet. Fascinatingly, the tower is named after a gluttonous watchman. The top of the tower is privy to outstanding views of the city. It stands out at the Piazza del Campo, not just be...Read more -
Palazzo Publico And Museo Civico
(2023 Votes)
The Palazzo Pubblico of Siena (also known as the Palazzo Comunale) was built in the Piazza del Campo between 1297 and 1310 as the new headquarters of the Government of the Nine. The first nucleus, which dates 1284, was expanded and reconstructed until 1310 when the government moved in permanently. The Palazzo Comunale is the headquarters of the modern city’s administration and houses the ...Read more -
Located in the eponymous square, the Baptistry of San Giovanni is a building dating back to the 13th Century. The marble facade is it’s most striking feature, made in Sienese gothic style. Beautifully decorated, the ceilings adorn frescos made by celebrated artistes like Michele di Matteo Lambertini and the remarkable painting of Baptism of Jesus by Alessandro Franchi. The hexagonal bapti...Read more -
Museo Dell'opera Metropolitana
(1151 Votes)
This museum contains the Duomo's treasury and some of the original decoration from its facade and interior. The first room on the ground floor displays 13th-century sculptures by Giovanni Pisano. The most noteworthy artworks are artist Duccio's Maestà, with 26 panels depicting historic episodes on one hand and on the other a Madonna and Child Enthroned. Visitors can head to the top of th...Read more -
Casa Di Santa Catarina
(385 Votes)
This historic house tells the incredible story of Caterina Benincasa who took the order of a nun when she was only eight years old. She was instrumental in shifting the papal seat from Avignon to Rome. She was one of the two women to be elevated to the Doctors of Church and served as the patron saint of Italy in 1939. Her house was converted into a sanctuary and has become a pilgrimage in its o...Read more -
Pinacoteca Nazionale
(269 Votes)
An absolutely remarkable collection of Sienese paintings and other works of art await you at this interesting museum. The Pinacoteco Nazionale houses beautiful artworks from the medieval and renaissance period. It is located in the 14th Century Palazzo Buonsignori which is a gorgeous building by itself. A must visit for art enthusiasts, this museum, although a little chaotically organized, is a...Read more -
From being used as a place for public executions, public uprisings to a roman marketplace, Piazza del Mercato has now evolved as a lively place full of interesting sights and activity. It is now a marketplace that sells interesting merchandise and has a number of small restaurants surrounding it. The square is still a great place to take in the feel of Siena. It is located directly behind the S...Read more -
Basilica Di Santa Maria Dei Servi
(187 Votes)
Standing atop a hill, this beautiful 13 th century church is as peaceful as it is spell binding. It stands in the place that was once the church of St Clement until it was totally reformed in the Renaissance style between 1471 and 1527. The marble interiors of the church accentuate the gorgeous paintings and frescos inside. The exterior of the church is in stark contrast of its decorated interi...Read more -
Natural History Museum Of Siena Or Museo Di Storia Naturale Dell'Accademia Dei Fisiocritici
(106 Votes)
The Museum of Natural History is a part of the Academy of Physiocritics and is housed in a 12th century Camaldolese monastery. Its three main sections: Geology, Zoology and Anatomy address the natural history of the earth and hold fascinating collections of objects and research. Particularly addressing the natural history and evolution of the Tuscany region, the minerals and rocks discovered fr...Read more -
Biblioteca Piccolimini
(304 Votes)
This fantastic Roman building was built by Pope Pius II in the memory of his beloved uncle Enea Silvio Piccolimini. The colorful walls of this library are decorated with ancient frescoes that depict the expertise of the great Italian artist who is to be given complete credit for the amazing concept. The library mainly houses the belongings of Piccolimini and apart from this also has on display ...Read more -
Palazzo Chigi Saracini
(159 Votes)
Dating from the 14th century, the Palazzo Chigi-Saracini now houses the Accademia Musicale Chigiana of Siena. The facade facing Via di Citta is curvilinear and upon entering the courtyard strains of classical music fill the air adding to the lively, vintage atmosphere. In the mid-12th century the powerful Marescotti family erected their town house here. The grandiose stone tower is still visibl...Read more -
A vineyard set against a magnificent castle, Barone Ricasoli is a unique destination in Siena. The medieval castle proves to be a charming backdrop for the vineyards that produce some delicious, refreshing wine. The castle exchanged hands and went to the Ricasoli family in 1141. Over the centuries the castle has suffered attack and destruction in a number of historical battles, from Aragonese a...Read more -
Museo Archeologico Di Siena
(79 Votes)
Not just for archaeology enthusiasts, but also for those with little knowledge about it, the Archaeological museum is a place full of surprises. Located in the ancient complex of Santa Maria Della Scala, the Archaeological museum is divided in two sections- The Topographical section provides an overview of the archeology of the area "Siena" with particular regard to cultural areas of the city o...Read more