A square that tells centuries of passages
Nestled in the Terzo di Città, the oldest part of Siena, Piazza Postierla seems to stop time. The name comes from a small medieval door, now disappeared, which once marked the access to the ancient city walls. Also known as “Dei Quattro Cantoni,” the square has been a natural crossroads for pilgrims, students, merchants, and religious, a strategic passage point to the south. Walking among its stones almost means feeling the rhythm of the steps of travelers and students of the Studio Senese, the ancient university that once animated this corner of the city.
Columns, fountains, and symbols to observe
In the center of the square stands a 15th-century column, topped by a wrought iron flag bearer and the Sienese Wolf, emblem of the city, a work by Giuliano Vangi. Not far away, the 19th-century fountain “delle Due Facce” displays two sculpted heads, facing in opposite directions. Once it provided water to residents, travelers, and children of the neighborhood; today it is a small sign of the daily life of the past, a discreet reminder of the collective memory.
Palaces and tower houses that tell stories
The square is surrounded by noble palaces and tower houses that speak of Sienese families and centuries of history. Among these stand out Palazzo Chigi Piccolomini, with the curious smallest window in the world, Palazzo Bardi, and Palazzo Borghesi. Bifore, brick arches, bright facades, and luminous 17th-century palaces combine without confusion, creating a sense of harmony where every detail tells something. Here, one can perceive the layering of centuries, the dialogue between medieval and baroque, between daily life and nobility.
Streets leading to the heart of Siena
From Piazza Postierla, four historic streets open up: via di Città, leading towards the Duomo; via del Capitano, ascending towards Santa Maria della Scala; via San Pietro, descending towards the university area; and via Stalloreggi, leading to Porta San Marco. It is a perfect starting point to discover the city, a square that unites history, art, and a small taste of Sienese life between culture and shopping.
