We were also shaking our heads in wonder at the invasion of large plastic animals in all colors.
Turns out these are part of a temporary "contemporary art" exhibit (said with barely restrained disdain by our city guide in the afternoon)--along with statues of very well-padded women and a huge metal smile placed upon city hall.
We joined the group at 1 pm--there are 13 travelers plus various guides. As in other European countries they take their tourism very seriously and you have to be licensed to do certain types of tours. Gianni will be our guide for the countryside but today we hace a city guide trained in the art and history of the area.
Siena was a very big power until they were defeated by Florence in the 1300's, so there is an extensive and beautiful old city dating back several hundred years that is a UNESCO heritage site.
The city is divided into historical contrade (neighborhoods) from long ago that are still very much alive and well today with shifting alliances and often well marked boundaries indicated by sculptures, tiles mounted on buildings, or baptismal founts. See examples of panthers (Gianni's home neighborhood), eagles, turtles, dolphins, and rhinos.
This is played out every year in two major horse races in the very center of town, called the Palio races, which are dedicated to Mary.
The Duomo, also dedicated to Mary, would need a whole book to describe all the art inside and out.
Did I mention the gelato? More pics later...
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