The shell-shaped square, one of the most beautiful in the world
Piazza del Campo slopes gently like a shell, divided into nine segments of red brick that recall the Government of the Nine, which ruled Siena at its height in the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries. It lies where the three hills of the city meet, and every street seems to flow into it.
At the lowest point stands the Palazzo Pubblico with the slender Torre del Mangia, 88 metres high: 400 steps lead to one of the finest views in Tuscany. At the top of the square, the Fonte Gaia by Jacopo della Quercia (here in a copy) was fed by an aqueduct of medieval tunnels, the bottini, that still run under the city.
Tip: sit on the brick paving like the Sienese do, ideally in the late afternoon, then lose yourself in the contrade, each with its own emblem, fountain and church.
Where it is
More things to see in Tuscany
Where to stay near Siena
Tours and activities nearby
Offers from GetYourGuide. Some links are affiliate links: if you book we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.