Torrita di Siena

THE TOWN OF THE FOUR DOORS

Torrita di Siena is in the province of Siena, in the Val di Chiana. The historic center of Siena through the halls made with the typical Sienna-colored bricks.

The town was built in a strategic position between Siena and Montepulciano and city walls, which still are intact, were built in 1200. To enter the old town there are four gates: "Porta Nova", "Porta Gavina", "Porta a Pago", "Porta a Sole". Three date from the time of the first building, and the fourth was added in 1800. From Porta Gavina you can enjoy beautiful views of the Valdichiana.

Piazza Matteotti is the civic, religious and commercial center of Torrita since its origin. Here stands the Palazzo Comunale (formerly known as "Palazzo Pretorio"), the large building that houses the Town Hall since 1200. The Tower of the Town Hall recalls the Torre del Mangia in Siena. The romanesque "Chiesa di Santa Flora e Lucilla" is the oldest church in the city and houses many works of art, including a bezel-relief sculpted by Donatello.

 

Traditions and Typical products

At Torrita di Siena each March 19 , the "Palio dei Somari". During the Festival you can taste traditional dishes, enjoy street performances and shows. The city is also known for its annual Blues Festival, at the end of June.

Since the beginning of the twentieth century Torrita di Siena knew a great development in the field of crafts, especially in woodworking.

 

Photo Credits [ecomuseovaldichiana.org]