Siena Province
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Latest page update: 6 March 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The Siena Province occupies a total geographical area of 3,821 square kilometres including the city of Siena itself, the provincial capital.
Within the province there are 35 provincial towns, known as communes (comune singular or comuni plural in Italian), containing a total population of around 267,000 inhabitants. |
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Among the highlights in the province are the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Val d'Orcia, San Gimignano and Pienza.
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Siena Province • Tuscany • Central Italy
The province of Siena is located in the southern part of Tuscany, surrounded by the rolling hills and vineyards that characterise the region's landscape. It is renowned for its medieval towns, beautiful countryside, and historical significance. Siena, the provincial capital, is one of Italy's most iconic cities, famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture and rich cultural heritage. The province is also home to many charming villages, vineyards producing renowned wines, and peaceful, scenic landscapes.
Siena itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its stunning Piazza del Campo, which hosts the famous Palio horse race every summer. The cathedral, the Duomo di Siena, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, adorned with intricate marble floors and stunning frescoes. The Palazzo Pubblico, which houses the city's municipal art collection, and the Torre del Mangia, offering panoramic views of Siena, are also key attractions. The city’s historic centre, with its narrow streets, beautiful squares, and medieval buildings, provides a glimpse into its past as a powerful republic during the Middle Ages.
The province surrounding Siena is equally rich in attractions. The Chianti region, famous for its vineyards and wine production, offers visitors the chance to taste world-class wines and explore the picturesque hilltop villages. The Val d'Orcia, another UNESCO World Heritage area, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, with cypress-lined roads, rolling hills, and traditional Tuscan farmhouses. Small towns like Montalcino, famous for its Brunello wine, and Pienza, known for its Renaissance architecture, are highlights of the province. With its mix of history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage, the province of Siena offers an unforgettable experience for visitors to Tuscany.
Siena itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its stunning Piazza del Campo, which hosts the famous Palio horse race every summer. The cathedral, the Duomo di Siena, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, adorned with intricate marble floors and stunning frescoes. The Palazzo Pubblico, which houses the city's municipal art collection, and the Torre del Mangia, offering panoramic views of Siena, are also key attractions. The city’s historic centre, with its narrow streets, beautiful squares, and medieval buildings, provides a glimpse into its past as a powerful republic during the Middle Ages.
The province surrounding Siena is equally rich in attractions. The Chianti region, famous for its vineyards and wine production, offers visitors the chance to taste world-class wines and explore the picturesque hilltop villages. The Val d'Orcia, another UNESCO World Heritage area, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, with cypress-lined roads, rolling hills, and traditional Tuscan farmhouses. Small towns like Montalcino, famous for its Brunello wine, and Pienza, known for its Renaissance architecture, are highlights of the province. With its mix of history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage, the province of Siena offers an unforgettable experience for visitors to Tuscany.
Highlights
- Siena: The province's namesake city is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its medieval architecture, stunning Gothic cathedral (Duomo di Siena), and the aforementioned Piazza del Campo. Visitors can explore narrow cobblestone streets, visit museums, and taste traditional Tuscan cuisine in local trattorias.
- San Gimignano: Famous for its well-preserved medieval towers, San Gimignano is often referred to as the "Medieval Manhattan." The town's unique skyline and historical charm make it a popular destination for tourists.
- Val d'Orcia: This beautiful valley in southern Siena Province is characterized by rolling hills, cypress trees, and picturesque villages. The landscapes here have inspired numerous artists and photographers.
- Montalcino: This hilltop town is renowned for its Brunello di Montalcino wine. Tourists can visit wineries for tastings and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
- Pienza: Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Pienza is a beautiful Renaissance town known for its harmonious architecture and delicious pecorino cheese.
- Chianti Region: Siena Province is part of the renowned Chianti wine region, offering tourists the chance to explore vineyards and taste world-class wines.
- Crete Senesi: This unique lunar-like landscape features clay hills and winding country roads, making it a dream destination for photographers and nature lovers.
- Abbey of San Galgano: Visitors can explore the ruins of this Cistercian abbey and marvel at the legendary "Sword in the Stone."
- Festivals and Events: Siena Province hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including the Palio di Siena, historic reenactments, and traditional feasts.
Provincia di Siena
Neighbouring provinces: Metropolitan City of Florence, Pisa, Grosseto, Arezzo, Perugia, Terni, Viterbo
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