Siena

About an hour's drive from Florence is Siena strong> - a medieval town, situated on three hills, surrounded by a fortress wall. The city is protected by UNESCO, is proud of its ancient appearance, honoring the mores and customs of the Middle Ages and is considered the most conservative city in Italy. Siena, the city, unlike anything any other in Italy. Since medieval times it has retained its original appearance of severe unavailable. The streets are paved with brick and stone. Uncharacteristic for a small provincial town tall buildings, decorated with elegant two-and tripartite windows and lancet arches. The narrow alleys almost devoid of vegetation, but the air is surprisingly clean, but absolutely do not feel crowded - the city center is closed for most types of transport. The city was founded as a Roman colony. Like many Tuscan towns, Siena for many years remained in the shadow of the mighty Florence, subjected to constant attack from the provincial capital and the side of government forces. It is noteworthy that until now residents of the city with the cool and can say with contempt, refer to the Florentines, and they in turn are responsible to them the same affection. Siena - the city friendly and keeps true to their own traditions. He lives almost two parallel lives. On one side are tourists and thousands of professors and students of the university for foreigners, one of the best in Italy, on the other hand - Sienese tied to his custom, seemingly inscrutable neophytes. Siena is synonymous with pride, contrasts and natural connection with the land. Since ancient times, Siena is divided into 17 Contrada, each of which is a city within a city - with its boundaries, church, municipality, the patron saint, laws, flags, a symbol and name. Contrada friendships and feuding among themselves, in a fanatical devotion to their "city" children grow up. Twice a year, 2 July and 16 August, at the main square of Campo happens Palio - competition riders from around the Contrada of the city. Also called a flag that goes to the winner. Horse - the main party celebration. A few days before the race it round the clock guard 12 men. The horse finished first, even without a rider is the winner. Although this festival lasts only 2 days the people of Siena are preparing for it ahead of time, making themselves medieval costumes and walking in the guise of knights or festive attire XV century, the streets almost all summer.