Exploring the Historic Charm of Siena with My Spouse

Farewell, Siena!

As our Sienese adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've had. Today, our final day, was a culmination of history, art, and Tuscan charm. Elena and I set out to explore the hidden gems and iconic landmarks that make Siena so special, creating memories that we will treasure long after we return to Stratford. It's hard to believe our time here is already up; it feels like just yesterday we were marveling at the Duomo for the first time.

Our day began with an early breakfast at Ristorante San Desiderio. The aroma of fresh pastries and strong Italian coffee filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our final day of exploration. It’s amazing how a simple meal can encapsulate the spirit of a place. The restaurant, located near the Duomo, was charming, with photos of the Palio races adorning the walls. I savored the mushroom soup, while Elena enjoyed the gnocchi. It was the perfect way to fuel up before heading out.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante San Desiderio in Siena—where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

Our first stop was the awe-inspiring San Galgano Abbey, a short drive from Siena. As we approached, the roofless walls of the Gothic-style abbey church stood majestically against the Tuscan sky. The abbey, founded in the 13th century, has a fascinating history. It thrived for centuries before falling into disrepair, pillaged by mercenary troops and eventually abandoned. Today, only the skeletal remains stand, creating an evocative and hauntingly beautiful scene. Elena and I wandered through the roofless nave, imagining what life must have been like for the Cistercian monks who once called this place home. The absence of a roof allowed the sunlight to stream in, casting an ethereal glow on the ancient stone walls. It felt like stepping back in time.


Explore the enchanting San Galgano Abbey, where history, architecture, and natural beauty converge in the heart of Tuscany.

The beauty of ruins lies not just in their weathered stones, but in the stories they whisper of bygone eras.

Nearby, we visited the Chapel of Montesiepi, a Romanesque chapel built on the site where Saint Galgano lived as a hermit. Inside the chapel, we saw the legendary sword embedded in the stone, said to have been driven there by Galgano himself when he renounced his worldly desires. The legend of the sword is reminiscent of the Arthurian legend of Excalibur, adding to the mystique of the place. It was a truly unique and spiritual experience.

Back in Siena, we headed to Piazza del Duomo, the religious heart of the city. The Siena Cathedral, with its striking black and white facade, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. We spent hours exploring the cathedral's interior, marveling at the intricate floor inlaid with 56 panels depicting historical and biblical scenes. The panels, created by about 40 artists over 200 years, are a testament to the artistic achievements of the Sienese people. Elena was particularly impressed by the Piccolomini Library, a small hall adorned with vividly colored frescoes by Pinturicchio, depicting events in the life of Pope Pius II. The sculptures by a young Michelangelo on the Piccolomini altar were also a highlight.


Explore the captivating beauty and historical significance of Siena's Piazza del Duomo, home to the stunning cathedral and vibrant local culture.

As we strolled through the Piazza del Duomo, I couldn't help but reflect on the history of this place. The cathedral was built on the site of a former Roman temple, and it has been a site of significant religious events and celebrations for centuries. The square is surrounded by other notable landmarks, including the Baptistry of St. John and the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo, each contributing to the rich cultural heritage of Siena.

Next, we ventured off the beaten path to find Vestri Palace, a hidden gem in the city center. This 18th-century palace, designed by the Prato architect Giuseppe Valentini, is a testament to neoclassical elegance. What makes Vestri Palace particularly intriguing is its internal helicoidal ramp, a staircase without steps that spirals from the inner courtyard to the top floor. It's a unique architectural feature that conveys a sense of lightness and movement.


Explore the historical charm of Vestri Palace in Siena, a captivating tourist attraction filled with art, culture, and stunning architecture.

As we learned, Vestri Palace also has a fascinating connection to the Risorgimento history of Siena. It was once the home of Garibaldina Baldovina Vestri, a brave woman who followed Garibaldi in the battle of Mentana, and was given a red shirt by Garibaldi himself, impressed by her courage. Her father Giovanni, after wounding a policeman, was imprisoned in Volterra. Here he learnt to work alabaster, an art that he later taught to his tenant, none other than Cesare Maccari, and other renowned artists who attend his workshop. Baldovina dedicated herself to caring for the suffering and the poor. It’s stories like these that breathe life into the stones of these old buildings.

Before dinner, we stopped by Ceramiche Antica Siena By Martini Marisa, a charming ceramics shop where we hoped to find a unique souvenir to remind us of our trip. The shop was filled with beautiful hand-painted ceramics, each piece reflecting the artistic traditions of Siena. I was particularly drawn to the tiles depicting the contrade, the city's historic neighborhoods. Elena, ever the practical one, admired the hand-painted bowls and plates. We ended up purchasing a small ceramic ornament, a reminder of our time in this beautiful city. It felt good to support local artisans and take home a piece of Siena's artistic heritage.


Explore the charm of traditional Italian craftsmanship at Ceramiche Antica Siena, showcasing exquisite handcrafted pottery and unique gifts.

For our final dinner, we chose Il Bargello, a cozy restaurant known for its authentic Tuscan cuisine and excellent wine selection. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff were incredibly friendly. We started with a cheese and charcuterie plate, showcasing the local flavors of Tuscany. For my main course, I had the pici pasta, a traditional Sienese dish, while Elena opted for the beef tagliatelle. The food was delicious, and the wine pairings were perfect. As we savored our meal, we reminisced about our favorite moments from the trip, from exploring the Duomo to wandering through the Tuscan countryside. It was the perfect way to end our Sienese adventure.


Discover Il Bargello: A Tuscan culinary treasure offering exquisite Italian dishes and a cozy atmosphere in historic Siena.

As we prepare to leave Siena tomorrow, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences we've had. This city has captured our hearts with its rich history, stunning architecture, and warm hospitality. From the roofless walls of San Galgano Abbey to the hidden gems of Vestri Palace, Siena has offered us a glimpse into a world of beauty and wonder. I know that we will carry these memories with us always, a reminder of the magic of travel and the joy of discovering new places with the one you love. Ciao, Siena! Until next time.

Our trip ends tomorrow, and while I’m sad to leave, I’m also excited to return home to share our experiences with Miguel and plan our next adventure. Perhaps we’ll explore more of Italy, or maybe venture to a new continent. The world is full of possibilities, and I can’t wait to see where our travels take us next.