Exploring the Historic Charm of Siena with My Spouse

Sacred Spaces and Hidden Art

Today in Siena was a journey through faith, art, and history, offering a deeper understanding of this captivating city. Elena and I explored magnificent churches, admired stunning architecture, and savored the local flavors, creating memories that will forever be etched in our hearts. It’s days like these that remind me why we love to travel together, discovering new facets of the world and ourselves.

Our day began with a delightful gluten-free breakfast at Ristorante San Domenico - Gluten Free. Knowing Elena's dietary needs are well catered for always sets a relaxed tone for our explorations. We enjoyed a simple yet satisfying meal of fresh fruit, yogurt, and gluten-free pastries. It reminded me of the breakfasts we used to have back in Laoag, Philippines, with the fresh mangoes and the warm hospitality. This breakfast was a perfect start to a day filled with exploration and spiritual reflection.

Our first stop was the Basilica of San Francesco. As we approached, the sheer size of the basilica was impressive. Inside, the atmosphere was serene and contemplative. The basilica, with its Gothic architecture, was a peaceful escape from the bustling streets of Siena. We spent some time admiring the stained glass windows, which cast colorful patterns across the stone floors. The light filtering through the glass created an ethereal ambiance, inviting quiet reflection. I took a few photos, trying to capture the essence of the space, hoping to share its tranquility with those back home.

Elena and I lit a candle for our family, a small gesture of love and remembrance. I found myself reflecting on the importance of faith and community, values that have always been central to our family. The basilica's history, dating back to the 13th century, added another layer of depth to the experience. It was fascinating to learn about the various renovations and additions that had shaped the basilica over the centuries. We learned that the basilica is known for housing the incorrupt body of Blessed Antonio Patrizi, which is a significant point of pilgrimage.

Exploring sacred spaces allows us to connect with history, art, and our own spirituality, creating a profound and enriching travel experience.

Next, we ventured to the Battistero di San Giovanni Battista. The Baptistery is located beneath the Siena Cathedral and is accessed through a staircase in the Piazza San Giovanni. The exterior was impressive, but the interior was breathtaking. The highlight was undoubtedly the baptismal font, a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture. Designed by Jacopo della Quercia and featuring contributions from Donatello and Lorenzo Ghiberti, the font was a testament to the artistic genius of the era. Elena and I were mesmerized by the intricate details of the sculptures, each telling a story from the life of John the Baptist. The atmosphere was hushed and reverent, adding to the sense of awe.

I tried to imagine the countless baptisms that had taken place within those walls over the centuries. It was a humbling experience to stand in a place so steeped in history and tradition. Elena, with her background in nursing, was particularly moved by the stories of healing and renewal associated with baptism. We spent a good hour simply absorbing the beauty and significance of the Baptistery. The frescoes adorning the walls and ceilings added another layer of visual richness to the space. Painted by various Sienese artists, the frescoes depicted scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary, creating a cohesive and compelling narrative.

For lunch, we headed to Osteria Il Carroccio, a charming restaurant known for its traditional Sienese cuisine. We shared a plate of pici pasta with wild boar ragu, a local specialty that was both hearty and delicious. The pasta was perfectly al dente, and the ragu was rich and flavorful. We also tried the ribollita, a Tuscan bread and vegetable soup that was both comforting and satisfying. The atmosphere at Osteria Il Carroccio was warm and inviting, with friendly staff and a lively ambiance. It felt like we were dining with family. I made a mental note to try recreating the ribollita back home in Stratford, thinking it would be a perfect dish for the cooler months.

After lunch, we strolled through the streets of Siena, taking in the sights and sounds of the city. We passed by Palazzo Salimbeni, the historic headquarters of the Monte dei Paschi di Siena, one of the oldest banks in the world. Although we couldn't go inside, the grandeur of the palace was evident from the outside. The architecture was imposing, a reminder of the power and influence of the bank. I imagined the countless financial transactions that had taken place within those walls over the centuries. It was a stark contrast to the religious sites we had visited earlier in the day, but equally fascinating in its own way.

Elena and I stopped for gelato at a small gelateria near the Campo. I opted for a scoop of pistachio, while Elena chose stracciatella. We sat on a bench in the piazza, enjoying our gelato and watching the world go by. The Campo was bustling with activity, tourists and locals alike mingling in the square. It was a perfect moment, simple yet profound. The warm sun, the delicious gelato, and the vibrant atmosphere of the Campo created a sensory experience that was truly unforgettable.

As the day wound down, we decided to visit San Paolo Pub for a pre-dinner drink. The pub had a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and we enjoyed a couple of glasses of local wine. It was a great way to relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing. We chatted with some of the locals, learning more about Sienese culture and traditions. They recommended a few places to visit tomorrow, which we added to our list. The warmth and hospitality of the Sienese people were truly heartwarming.

For dinner, we had reservations at Ristorante Mugolone, known for its refined Tuscan cuisine. We started with an appetizer of crostini toscani, topped with chicken liver pate. It was rich and flavorful, a perfect introduction to the meal. For our main courses, Elena ordered the osso buco, while I opted for the bistecca alla fiorentina. Both dishes were cooked to perfection. The osso buco was tender and succulent, while the bistecca alla fiorentina was perfectly seared and seasoned. We savored every bite, appreciating the culinary artistry of the chef. The ambiance at Ristorante Mugolone was elegant and sophisticated, making it a perfect setting for a special meal.

As we walked back to Hotel Minerva, hand in hand, we reflected on the day's experiences. Siena had once again captured our hearts with its beauty, history, and culture. We talked about our plans for tomorrow, which include visiting the Facciatone for panoramic views of the city, exploring Palazzo Piccolomini, Siena, and discovering the Fonte Nuova D'Ovile. We also plan to visit Casa della Pelle to check out the leather goods that Siena is known for. We're both looking forward to another day of adventure and discovery in this enchanting city.

Back at the hotel, I took out my travel journal and jotted down the day's highlights. It's a habit I've developed over the years, a way to preserve the memories of our travels. Elena, meanwhile, was busy sorting through the photos we had taken, eager to share them with our family and friends back home. As I closed my journal, I felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such a beautiful and culturally rich city with the woman I love. Siena, with its sacred spaces and hidden art, had left an indelible mark on our souls.

Tomorrow, we look forward to continuing our exploration of Siena, venturing into new corners of this historic city. We plan to visit the Facciatone, Palazzo Piccolomini, and Fonte Nuova D'Ovile, each promising new discoveries and unforgettable moments. And, of course, we'll be sure to sample more of the local cuisine, indulging in the flavors of Tuscany. Good night from Siena!