The Duomo, Siena, Itlay
The Tuscan town of Siena is one of my favorite places to visit in Italy. It is a beautiful hilltop city with a history that goes back to the Etruscans, around 600 BCE. It sits about 63 Km (38 miles) south of Florence, about a one hour drive, or 2.5 hour train ride. Trains now run directly from Florence to Siena, but they have to pass through Empoli, explaining the longer time. The trip is very reasonably priced, at around € 10 each way. One great thing I found on this trip is that Italy has upgraded its smaller train stations, so all the platforms now have elevator service, a boon for those who have trouble with stairs or are bringing significant luggage. My first full day in Siena came with a forecast of strong rain showers, so I planned several indoor explorations. I was staying at the Hotel I Tetti di Siena, which was just off of Piazza Giacomo Matteotti, one of the main entrances to the old city. From there it is a walk of about 700 m (0.43 miles) to the Duomo, Siena’s...