A Short History of Siena

Visit Siena Guide editorial·May 19, 2026·6 min read

Siena's identity is rooted in its medieval past — specifically the Council of Nine (1287-1355), when the city peaked.

# A Short History of Siena

Siena's identity is rooted in its medieval past — specifically the Council of Nine (1287-1355), when the city peaked.

Key facts

Etruscan origins, Roman city ('Saena Julia') under Augustus.
Medieval banking republic, rival to Florence.
Battle of Montaperti (1260): Siena's greatest victory over Florence.
Black Death (1348): killed 50-60% of the population. Siena never fully recovered.
1555: defeat to Florence ends the republic. Cosimo I builds the Fortezza.

What I tell visitors

If you read one book before visiting: 'Imagining the Renaissance City' or any general Sienese history. Even a Wikipedia skim transforms the museum visits.

Related guides

Final word

Whatever brings you to Siena — food, the Palio, the Tuscan countryside — slow down. The city repays attention. If you have a tip to add or a correction, write us at redazione@visitsienaguide.it.