Il Campo and Palazzo Pubblico

The magnificent Piazza del Campo, one of the most beautiful medieval town squares in all of Europe, was the city's principal marketplace for most of Siena's early history.

Since 1283, this Piazza has been the site of the twice-yearly Palio delle Contrade, a bareback horse race between the city's contrade, or neighborhoods. The Palio is a significant event for all of Tuscany, and is preceded by weeks of pageantry and 15th century costumes, culminating in the horse race.

The building with the dominating tower catching the last rays of sunlight is the Palazzo Pubblico, Siena's town hall. This building and its tower (the Torre del Mangia) is a famous symbol of Siena. The tower was built in 1348 and it completely dominates the square and surrounding area. Fourteenth century visitors from rural Tuscany must have been awed when they first visited Siena.

Today, the Piazza is ringed by cafes and fine restaurants. Drinking cappuccino at one of the outdoor tables on the Piazza is one of my favorite memories from our trip to Italy.

LENS: 17-35 at ~20mm | FILM: Fuji Velvia | EXPOSURE: f/8 at 1/?", polarizer, 0.6 ND grad | DATE: 10/03

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