Piazza del Campo, Medieval square in Siena, Italy.
Piazza del Campo is a shell-shaped square in central Siena, Italy, paved with red brick divided into nine sloping sections. The 14th-century tower rises over 100 meters (330 feet) at the lower end, while Gothic facades line the entire perimeter.
The square started as a market where three hillside communities converged, before becoming the seat of city government in the 13th century. Paving proceeded in stages during the following decades, while the tower was added between 1338 and 1348.
The nine sections of the paving recall the nine rulers who governed from here starting in 1287, while the fountain at the upper end was created later. Today residents use the square to sunbathe on the brick, meet friends, and watch activity from the steps.
Eleven lanes climb from different parts of the city up to the square, which slopes downward toward the tower. Restaurants with outdoor tables occupy many of the surrounding buildings, while the steps around the edge often serve as seating.
Twice a year the square transforms into a racetrack when dirt is spread over the brick and horses gallop in a circle. The race lasts little more than 90 seconds, but preparations and celebrations go on for several days.
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