The 17 Fantastic Animals of Siena

The medieval city of Siena, nestled in the heart of Tuscany, is home to a remarkable architectural marvel – the Fountain of Joy. This whimsical fountain is adorned with the captivating figures of 17 fantastic animals, each possessing a unique personality and symbolism. Visitors who pause to admire this enchanting display are drawn into the city’s rich cultural heritage, hinting at the deeper meanings and stories waiting to be uncovered within these mythical creatures.

Key Points

• The facade of Siena Cathedral features 12 zodiac symbols representing the 12 apostles of Jesus.
• The Fountain of Joy in Siena is adorned with intricate carvings of 17 Fantastic Animals, each depicting a unique persona.
• Visitors can explore the symbolic meanings of the mythical creatures adorning the Fountain of Joy.
• The 17 Fantastic Animals represent an important part of Siena’s rich history and cultural heritage.
• A self-guided tour is available for visitors to uncover the legendary significance of the 17 Fantastic Animals in Siena.

Exploring the Iconic Siena Cathedral

What better way to begin your exploration of the Fantastic Animals of Siena than by enjoying the grandeur of the iconic Siena Cathedral?

This Romanesque-Gothic masterpiece, dating back to the 13th century, boasts intricate marble facades and a towering bell tower.

As you wander through the cathedral’s aisle, gaze upwards to marvel at the stunning black and white striped columns and vaulted ceilings.

Don’t miss the ornate pulpit, adorned with bas-relief carvings depicting biblical scenes.

This architectural gem sets the stage for your journey to uncover the 17 Fantastic Animals that adorn the city’s historic buildings and streets.

The Legend of the Twelve Apostles

How did the legend of the Twelve Apostles come to be associated with the Fantastic Animals of Siena?

According to local lore, the twelve zodiac symbols adorning the Siena Cathedral facade represent the twelve apostles of Jesus. Each animal is believed to symbolize one of the apostles.

This unique architectural feature reflects Siena’s rich history and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the cathedral and identify the twelve apostles, then venture out to discover the 17 Fantastic Animals that adorn the city’s streets and buildings.

This self-guided tour offers a captivating way to uncover Siena’s legendary past.

Uncovering the Secrets of the Mangia Tower

Dominating the Siena skyline, the Mangia Tower stands as an iconic symbol of the city’s rich history and architectural prowess.

This medieval marvel, reaching over 300 feet tall, is renowned for its three distinctive features:

1. The tower’s distinctive façade, adorned with intricate Gothic-style carvings and arches, showcases the skilled craftsmanship of the era.

2. The spiraling staircase, with its 400 steps, provides visitors with a challenging yet rewarding climb to the top, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Siena and the surrounding Tuscan countryside.

3. The tower’s bell, known as the "Martinella," has been ringing out over the city for centuries, marking the passage of time and serving as a call to civic duty.

Discovering the Fascinating Fountain of Joy

As one ventures through the charming streets of Siena, the Fountain of Joy emerges as a captivating landmark that commands attention.

This whimsical fountain is adorned with intricate carvings of the 17 Fantastic Animals, each depicting a unique persona. Visitors can explore the fountain’s intricate details and uncover the symbolic meanings behind these mythical creatures.

The Fountain of Joy serves as a central gathering place, where locals and travelers alike can pause, marvel at the artistry, and feel a sense of wonder.

Its enchanting presence adds to the timeless allure of Siena’s historic cityscape.

The Captivating Loggia Della Mercanzia

Nestled amidst the captivating cityscape of Siena, the Loggia della Mercanzia stands as a testament to the city’s rich commercial and architectural heritage.

This stunning loggia features:

1. Intricate stone arches and columns adorned with decorative carvings.
2. A central courtyard with a fountain, providing a serene respite from the bustling streets.
3. Elegant Renaissance-style architecture that harmonizes with the surrounding historic buildings.

The Loggia della Mercanzia once served as a meeting place for Siena’s merchants, where business deals were struck and goods exchanged.

Today, it remains a beloved landmark, inviting visitors to step back in time and admire its timeless beauty.

The Alluring Siena Public Palace

The Siena Public Palace, known as the Palazzo Pubblico, stands as a magnificent architectural marvel in the heart of the city. This 13th-century Gothic-style building served as the seat of Siena’s government for centuries. Today, it houses the Civic Museum, showcasing a remarkable collection of frescoes, sculptures, and other artifacts that offer a glimpse into Siena’s rich cultural heritage.

Feature	Description
Architecture	Distinctive Gothic-style facade with intricate stone carvings and a towering bell tower.
Civic Museum	Exhibits a trove of Sienese art and history, including Ambrogio Lorenzetti’s frescoes.
Torre del Mangia	The iconic bell tower, standing at over 300 feet tall, provides panoramic views of Siena.

The Enigmatic Fonte Gaia

Situated in the heart of Siena’s Piazza del Campo, the Fonte Gaia stands as a captivating focal point.

This Renaissance-era fountain, designed by Jacopo della Quercia, features a striking sculptural relief adorned with three distinctive elements:

1. Mythical creatures, including lions, griffins, and mermaids, showcasing the imagination of the sculptor.
2. Allegorical female figures representing the virtues of Justice, Fortitude, and Temperance.
3. A central basin adorned with intricate carvings, inviting visitors to pause and admire the fountain’s elegant design.

The Fonte Gaia, with its blend of mythology and symbolism, adds to the enchanting ambiance of Siena’s historic center.

The Intriguing Piazza Del Campo

Piazza del Campo stands as the vibrant heart of Siena, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its unique fan-shaped design. Surrounded by historic palaces and the iconic Palazzo Pubblico, the piazza is a captivating gathering place. During the famous Palio horse race, the piazza transforms into a thrilling arena, where jockeys compete in a high-stakes spectacle that has captivated audiences for centuries.

Feature	Description
Size	333 feet (102 m) in diameter
Pavement	Distinctive shell-patterned bricks
Architecture	Blend of Gothic and Romanesque styles
Attractions	Palazzo Pubblico, Torre del Mangia, Fonte Gaia
Events	Palio horse race (twice annually)

Exploring Piazza del Campo offers a glimpse into Siena’s rich history and vibrant cultural traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Group Size for This Tour?

The minimum group size for this tour is 1 person. The tour is priced per group (up to 5 participants), indicating that a single traveler can book and participate in the private tour.

Can I Use My Own Instant Camera During the Tour?

The tour includes an instant camera rental, but participants are welcome to use their own instant cameras during the tour if they prefer. The rental is provided for convenience, but not required.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

The tour does not offer discounts for children or seniors. The price listed is a flat rate for groups of up to 5 participants, regardless of age. The tour provides an instant camera and film for the group.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

According to the information provided, service animals are allowed on the tour. However, it does not specify if other pets are permitted. Travelers should check with the tour operator to confirm if bringing a personal pet is possible.

How Long Does the Full Tour Typically Last?

The full tour typically lasts approximately 2 hours. The tour includes exploring the city and discovering the 17 Fantastic Animals of Siena, along with the provided inclusions like an instant camera and backpack.

The Sum Up

The 17 Fantastic Animals of Siena are a captivating celebration of the city’s rich cultural heritage. Adorning the iconic Fountain of Joy, these whimsical creatures enchant visitors, inviting them to uncover the symbolic meanings behind each unique figure. As a must-see attraction, the fountain serves as a central gathering place, seamlessly blending Siena’s timeless allure with its vibrant artistic spirit.