Contrada Culture Walk
Self-Guided TourDive into the fiercely loyal neighbourhood system that defines the city's social fabric. This tour hunts for the subtle and overt symbols of the seventeen contrade—the animal flags, the ceramic plaques, and the dedicated baptismal fountains. It is an exploration of living history, revealing how medieval tribalism evolved into a passionate, modern-day community structure.
SURFACE BREAKDOWN
ELEVATION PROFILE
WHY WE LOVE THIS ROUTE
Understanding the contrade is the key to understanding the city's soul. This tour makes the complex, passionate local culture tangible and visible.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
- • If you see locals wearing neckerchiefs with animal symbols, take note—they are proudly displaying their contrada affiliation.
- 1HIDDEN GEM
Church of San Giovannino
CHIESA DI SAN GIOVANNINO DELLA STAFFAThe intimate interior of the neighbourhood church proudly displays historic racing banners won over centuries of competition.
FULL PLACE DETAILS
OVERVIEW & STATS
- Established
- In 1611, making it 415 years old
ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE
- Architectural Styles
- Renaissance
WEB & AMENITIES
to next stop - 2ATTRACTION
Tower of the Eater
TORRE DEL MANGIAThe massive bell at the summit rings out to call all citizens together, briefly uniting the rival factions during major civic events.
FULL PLACE DETAILS
OVERVIEW & STATS
- Established
- In 1338, making it 688 years old
- Annual Visitors
- 54,555 (2022)
- Wi-Fi
- No
ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE
- Heritage Status
- Italian National Heritage
- Architectural Styles
- Medieval
WEB & AMENITIES
to next stop - 3FREE THING TO DO
Contrada Fountains
FONTANINE DELLE CONTRADEThe unique, animal-themed bronze fountains are used for the symbolic 'baptism' of babies into their respective neighbourhoods.
to next stop - 4HIGHLIGHT
Campo Square
PIAZZA DEL CAMPOThe vast, sloping brick arena serves as the ultimate battleground where neighbourhood pride is fiercely contested twice a year.
Other Self-Guided Tours
Check out other routes in Siena
Gothic Architecture Trail
This tour focuses on the stunning architectural unity that defines the city's golden age. It traces the evolution of Sienese Gothic design, from early fortified towers to elaborate, multi-coloured marble facades. By observing the distinct pointed arches, slender columns, and crenelated rooflines, you can read the history of a wealthy republic obsessed with beauty and civic pride.
view route
Footsteps of Saint Catherine
Follow the life and legend of Italy's patron saint, a 14th-century mystic who influenced popes and politics. This narrative journey visits the places where she lived, prayed, and experienced her visions. It provides a deeply spiritual and historical perspective on the city, exploring how religion permeated everyday life during the Middle Ages.
view route
Alternative Ways to Tour the City
Switch your pace. Discover curated routes by bike, foot, or self-guided exploration.
Medieval Alleys Walk
This walk deliberately avoids the main commercial streets, seeking out the narrowest, most atmospheric brick alleyways in the historic centre. It focuses on the architectural details, dramatic archways, and sudden, surprising viewpoints that define the city's unique urban fabric. It is a quiet, contemplative journey through the shadows of the past.
Chianti Castles Trail
Heading north, this ride weaves through the lush vineyards and dense oak forests of the world-famous Chianti wine region. The path connects several historic estates and medieval fortified hamlets. The landscape here is softer and greener, characterized by perfectly aligned vines and ancient stone walls.