The beating heart of the City of the Palio

Piazza del Campo, one of a kind. The heart and soul of Siena, it is an essential part of our city and its inhabitants. Known worldwide for its distinctive shape and for being the site of the Palio horse race, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The square, also commonly called “Il Campo”, was once a green space where markets and fairs were organised, and it is from this origin that its name derives.

The heart of the city center, it was designed on the small main streets that led into the ancient city and was intended to be a neutral place, independent of ecclesiastical and noble power, where festivals, jousts and important political events could be celebrated.

This square is a fundamental part of our tradition. Not only is it a gathering place for everyday conviviality, but it's also the place where we experience our emotions every year during the Palio. Here, the horses' hooves have echoed, every jockey has had to contend with their opponents, and every Sienese has rejoiced or cried with anger for their contrada. A single place, a thousand emotions.

You can't understand Siena without exploring this magnificent square, which embodies the city's distinctive pride. That's why we at Nannini want to tell you a little about it. Our region inspires us to continually improve, and we want to share it with you, along with our products.

Let's go and see its main features.

A century-old history

The design of the square dates back to the late 13th century, with the Government of the Nine, which brought Siena to its peak of cultural, artistic, urban planning, and architectural splendor. The square's layout is shell-shaped, with nine sections commemorating the Nine Lords who governed from 1287 to 1355. The paving dates back to 1347 and is composed of bricks arranged in a "knife" pattern over an irregular space that slopes downward.

Overlooking the square is the Palazzo Pubblico, also built between 1200 and 1300 to house the Nine Lords who governed Siena. A Gothic-style building, it originally comprised only stone arches. It was later expanded with the side sections and upper floors in red brick. Nine Guelph battlements were also added, one for each governor of the Republic. Inside the Palazzo Pubblico is now the Civic Museum, which houses numerous Sienese artworks.

On the left side of the Palazzo Pubblico we find the famous Torre del Mangia, built starting in 1325 by Francesco and Muccio di Rinaldo and completed around 1348. The picturesque name of this tower seems to derive from a certain Giovanni di Balduccio, who was in charge of striking the hours and nicknamed “Mangia” or “Mangiaguadagni” because he was apparently a spendthrift.

The summit of Torre del Mangia can be reached via four hundred steps and offers an unparalleled panoramic view of Siena. From that height, you can admire the geometric shell shape of the square and understand its importance in the city center.

Piazza del Campo and Fonte Gaia

In the upper part, right in the center of Piazza del Campo, opposite the Palazzo Pubblico, we find Fonte Gaia. This magnificent fountain, made of white marble and surrounded by a wrought-iron gate, is magnificent.

Built in 1346, it was adorned with original engravings by Jacopo della Quercia from 1409, now housed in the museum of the Spedale di Santa Maria della Scala. The current engravings date back to 1868 and are reproductions sculpted by Tito Sarrocchi.

Tradition has it that this fountain is named Gaia in honor of the joy the Sienese felt the first time the water gushed forth in the square.

In short, as you can see, Piazza del Campo is a complex work of art steeped in history. It's the heart and soul of Siena. Along with the Duomo and other notable works of art, the city of the Palio tells its story and its tradition.

Piazza del Campo thrives on the emotions of those who come to admire it. Every day, curious eyes gaze upon it and fall in love with it. Every day, tourists and city residents enjoy the beauty of this magical place, perhaps while enjoying a good coffee or a glass of Chianti wine.

It's a place where people share their lives even if it's just for a few minutes.

We at Nannini believe that Piazza del Campo, along with the Duomo , is the essence of Siena, and together with our culinary tradition, we want to accompany you on this journey to discover our beloved city.