Each contrade has its own unique flag. Walking through the city, you can immediately tell which quarter you are in by looking up at the flags on the building. With Renaissance architecture and a city built in a circular form, it is an experience of wonder walking the streets of Siena. My immediate comparison to the different flags and pride taken in each quarter from the citizens of Siena was to the four houses of Hogwarts from the Harry Potter series. It's really a Disneyland-like atmosphere. Not to mention the great festive procession, which takes place before each horse race. An amazing procession and very cheerful citizens of Siena, what could be more spectacular? I always enjoy a competitive environment! It's all good fun. Contrades of the Palio, Siena
While studying in Italy, I learned about the desserts that are enjoyed regularly and on special occasions throughout the regions of Italy. While visiting Siena, I came across a sweet shop called Nannini. I found the most brilliant array of traditional Italian pastries and delights, gelato included! One pastry, which at the time I had just discussed in class, stood out to me at Nannini. It's called Panforte and is an extremely popular delight! Dated back to around the 13th century in Siena, this dessert contains a variety fruits and nuts. A delicious masterpiece often dusted in powdered sugar! Other popular sweets I discovered were Cavallucci, a honey sugar biscuit, and ricciarelli, a crisp marzipan-based biscuit. Other Nannini sweets are shown in the photograph below.
While in Siena you will run into the large Duomo, Cathedral above Piazza del Campo. A brilliant cathedral filled with masterpieces from the greats, including Michelangelo and Pisano! If circling the city, you may come across a wonderful pizzeria and bakery, "panificio" called Menchetti. I highly recommend tasting their delicious pizza! You will also find delicious panforte and other traditional sweets there! Siena is the most wonderful, creative, jubilant city with unique architecture and delights! Love Always, Mia.
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AuthorHi guys! My passion is anything and everything SWEET! I am a graduate from Los Angeles, California with a hospitality degree. I have experienced many inspiring delights of the world as I have traveled here & there. Whatever the future may bring, I will always observe with my eyes & enjoy with my heart. Love Always, MARIA CEKO (Mia) Always #HEARTInspired Archives
January 2017
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