They are two of the most architecturally stunning locations in the world – but which has the edge between Italy’s underrated destination of Siena, and the similarly overlooked city of Chester in Cheshire?
Even though Italy is one of the most desirable holiday destinations in the world, many travellers overlook Siena in favour of the obvious attractions of Rome, Florence and Venice. Similarly, many of those considering a city break in England would opt for London, Bath or Cambridge and miss out on what Chester has to offer. So if you’re determined to discover one hidden gem this year, which should you opt for?
Culture vultures rejoice
Considered by many to be the jewel under the Tuscan sun, Siena is a unique city soaked in historical architecture and traditions that date back to the 13th Century.
The centre of Siena has been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the country’s most visited attractions – in 2008 it boasted more than 163,000 visitors. Its main sights include Siena’s Cathedral, which dates back to the 12th Century and is a fantastic example of Romanesque-Gothic architecture. Originally intended to be the largest cathedral in the world it has an axis that runs north-south and inside you can find the famous Gothic octagonal pulpit by Nicola Pisano and the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo.
The town square houses the Palazzo Pubblico and the Torre del Mangia, the latter of which is famous for hosting the Palio horse race, while the former houses its own important art museum. In addition, the city’s gardens are well worth visiting including the Orto Botanico dell’Universita di Siena; while the Medicean Fortress is home to the Siena Jazz School, which has its own major festival every year.
Chester, meanwhile, has a number of medieval buildings of its own – although some of the black and white buildings in the city centre are actually restored Victorian buildings. It is however, one of the best preserved walled cities in all of the UK – with nearly all of the Grade I-listed walls complete. A footpath runs across the walls and crosses roads over a series of bridges taking in sights and structures such as the Phoenix Tower, the Goblin Tower, the Water Tower and Morgan’s Mount.
The Chester Rows are unique in Britain with the shops and dwellings on the lowest floor often lower than the street – they are entered by steps. Meanwhile, those on the first floor are entered behind a continuous walkway that often has a sloping shelf close to the railings that overlook the street. The most prominent buildings in the area include the town hall and the cathedral.
There is plenty to see during a stay in Chester away from the city centre too. For example, Chester Castle is one of its most important surviving structures; while Grosvenor Park is great for a day out; or alternatively, you could take a trip along the River Dee.
Horses for courses
One attraction that Siena is truly famous for is the Palio di Siena – a medieval horse race that is run around the Piazzo del Campo twice a year – on July 2 and August 16. The event is widely televised with 17 city neighbourhoods vying for the trophy. It is often a dangerous competition for both the horses and the bare back riders, but the city thrives on the pride that the event brings.
Chester is not unaccustomed to horse racing of its own – albeit in a more civilised setting. Chester Racecourse holds several flat race meetings from the spring to the autumn – the races, which are in view of the city walls, attract tens of thousands of visitors. However, Chester’s animal-related attractions do not end there – because the city also has its own zoo, one of the UK’s largest zoos at 111acres and home to species including elephants, apes, chimpanzees, orang-utans, penguins, lions, tigers, leopards and more. It is also within close reach of the Blue Planet Aquarium at Ellesmere Port, where you can take a dive with the sharks.
Our verdict – Chester on a budget or Siena
Choosing between Chester and Siena, would mean taking your pick from two of the most beautiful cities in the world – if you have the money we’d highly recommend seeing both.
Certainly Siena may have the architectural edge, particularly if you’re passionate about art and old school traditions. However, if you want a medieval city with the hallmarks of days gone by combining with some distinctly modern attractions and more of a family vibe, then Chester may just be one step ahead of its admittedly stunning Italian rival.
Monday: Oxford on a budget or Lyon.