PIZZA, PASTA & LOTS OF RED VINO

MONDAY 4 SEPTEMBER - ROMA TO SIENA

It was an early start so we could catch the 8.47am train to Siena via Chiusi. We arrived at 11.40am ready to explore the wonders of the well preserved medieval city set in the heart of Tuscany. Churches, musuems and atmosphere was plentiful. Rach and I were a little disappointed to learn that we had just missed out on the running of the horses (known as Palio) at Piazza del Campo which happens twice yearly in July and August.

Our sight seeing commenced with lunch at a lovely ristorante on the city square, Piazza del Campo. We had great views of the surrounding buildings, abundant tourists and even a busker playing jokes on passer-bys. With al dente pasta and beer in our tums it was time for exploration including the Torre del Mangia (complete with bell tower) and Palazzo Pubbilco, Duomo (most towns have these maginificent cathedrals - this one from 1200s and decorated with works by Michelangeo, Bernini and had a intricate marble floor however unfortunately the facade was covered in scaffolding), Museuo dell'Opera (complete with artistic collection), Facciatone (facade with brilliant views of the whole district), Crypt (painted walls from 1200s), Bapistery, Basilica Santa Maria Dei Servi (from 1533) and the Piazza San Fransico.




After all the walking and our first run in with a very rude Italian lady at the bus station (we decided to catch a train to Montepulciano the next day instead) we had worked up an appetite so endulged in pizza, red wine and beer once again on the Piazza del Campo.