The 17 Fantastic Animals of Siena

Siena’s streets are home to a whimsical menagerie of fantastical creatures that have captured the imaginations of visitors for centuries. These 17 Fantastic Animals, crafted by local artisans, blend medieval history with magical realism, each sculpture possessing a distinct personality. From playful lions to fierce griffins and graceful unicorns, these enchanting figures invite you to explore the charming city and uncover the artistic tapestry that defines its rich heritage. As you wander Siena’s picturesque piazzas, you can’t help but wonder what secrets these captivating creatures might reveal about the city’s past.

Key Points

• Siena, Italy, is home to 17 whimsical sculptures of fantastic animals, including playful lions, fierce griffins, unicorns, and dolphins.
• Each creature possesses a unique personality and reflects Siena’s medieval history blended with magical realism.
• Exploring the city center and following the Polaguide map uncovers the hidden gems and original settings of these captivating sculptures.
• Visitors can rent a complimentary instant camera and films to capture the essence of the enchanting creatures and the city’s architectural wonders.
• The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with inclusive features ensuring a complete experience for all travelers.

Overview of the Fantastic Animals

The Fantastic Animals of Siena are a captivating array of whimsical sculptures found throughout the historic city.

These 17 fantastical creatures, each with their own unique personality and charm, have become a beloved part of Siena’s cultural heritage. From the playful dragon perched atop a building to the majestic winged lion guarding a city gate, these imaginative sculptures inspire wonder and delight in all who encounter them.

Crafted by local artisans, the Fantastic Animals of Siena blend the city’s medieval history with a touch of magical realism, creating an enchanting landscape that beckons visitors to explore and discover the hidden gems scattered throughout Siena’s winding streets.

Discovering the 17 Creatures

When exploring the winding streets of Siena, visitors can’t help but be captivated by the 17 Fantastic Animals that appear around every corner.

These whimsical creatures, carved into the city’s architecture, depict a variety of animals, from playful lions and fierce griffins to mysterious unicorns and serene dolphins.

Each one tells a unique story, reflecting Siena’s rich history and vibrant culture.

As you follow the trail of these fantastical beasts, you’ll be transported into a world of imagination, where the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur.

Whether it’s the commanding presence of the Manticore or the graceful elegance of the Swan, these enchanting animals will leave a lasting impression on all who encounter them.

Exploring the Siena City Center

Siena’s city center is a captivating labyrinth of medieval streets and piazzas, where the Exploring the Siena City Center truly comes alive.

Travelers are swept up in the enchanting atmosphere, their eyes drawn to the stunning Gothic architecture and the intricate Fantastic Animals adorning the facades.

Around every corner, they discover new delights – from the lively Piazza del Campo, the famous shell-shaped square, to the Duomo, a masterpiece of Romanesque and Gothic styles.

The city’s vibrant heart pulsates with the energy of local artisans, cafes, and shops, inviting visitors to enjoy Siena’s rich heritage and traditions.

This walking tour offers a chance to uncover the city’s hidden gems, bringing the Fantastic Animals to life in their original setting.

Using the Instant Camera and Films

Travelers delight in the complimentary instant camera rental, which allows them to capture the whimsical Fantastic Animals in all their vibrant glory.

With 10 or 20 instant films at their disposal, visitors can immortalize their favorite discoveries, from the fierce dragon perched on the side of a medieval building to the mischievous rabbit peeking out from a narrow alleyway.

The included Polaguide provides a handy map and details on all 17 creatures, ensuring no magnificent beast goes unnoticed.

The backpack keeps hands free for easy navigation and photographing.

Exploring Siena’s hidden gems has never been easier or more enjoyable.

Key features:

1. Instant camera rental
2. 10 or 20 instant films
3. Polaguide with map and creature details
4. Backpack for hands-free exploration

Following the Polaguide Map

With the Polaguide map in hand, participants embark on a captivating journey through Siena’s hidden alleyways and historic squares. The map serves as a treasure trove, guiding them to discover the 17 Fantastic Animals – a collection of whimsical sculptures and architectural details that have become the city’s hidden gems.

Tracing the route, they’ll stumble upon ornate doorways, fanciful gargoyles, and intricate carvings, each one a testament to Siena’s rich artistic heritage. Along the way, they’ll snap instant photos, capturing the essence of these enchanting creatures and the charming surroundings.

The Polaguide provides context and insights, bringing the animals to life and deepening the participants’ understanding of Siena’s unique cultural tapestry.

Accessibility and Transportation

The tour is highly accessible, catering to a range of visitors. Wheelchair users and those with strollers can easily participate, and service animals are welcome.

The tour is also conveniently located near public transportation, making it accessible for those without a car. The meeting and ending point at the PolaRoad store in Siena’s city center adds to the overall convenience.

The highlights of the accessibility include:

1. Wheelchair accessible
2. Stroller accessible
3. Service animals allowed
4. Near public transportation

With these inclusive features, the "17 Fantastic Animals of Siena" tour ensures that all interested travelers can fully experience the enchanting sights and discover the city’s hidden wonders.

Booking and Tour Details

Booking the "17 Fantastic Animals of Siena" tour is a straightforward process, offering travelers the convenience of a private experience and the flexibility to reserve and pay later.

With a 100% recommendation rate and a perfect 5-star overall rating, this immersive activity is a must-do for anyone visiting Siena.

Upon booking, you’ll receive instant camera rental, 10 or 20 instant films, a useful guidebook, and a map – everything you need for a memorable exploration of the city’s whimsical animal sculptures.

The tour starts and ends at the centrally located Peace&Road Siena store, making it easy to access.

Whether you’re traveling with a wheelchair, stroller, or service animal, this experience accommodates a variety of needs, ensuring an inclusive and enjoyable outing.

Traveler Experiences and Ratings

Travelers raving about the "17 Fantastic Animals of Siena" experience can’t be wrong. With a perfect 5-star rating from all 15 reviews, this unique tour is a must-do for visitors to Siena.

Highlights of the experience include:

1. Instant camera rental for capturing one-of-a-kind photos of the city’s enigmatic animal statues.
2. A handy guidebook detailing the history and significance of each of the 17 "fantastic animals."
3. A backpack to comfortably explore the streets and piazzas while on the hunt for these whimsical creatures.
4. The ability to explore at your own pace, with a convenient meeting point to start and end the tour.

This 5-star experience is a fantastic way to discover Siena’s hidden gems and create lasting memories.

Since You Asked

How Long Does the Tour Typically Take to Complete?

The tour typically takes 2-3 hours to complete. Visitors can explore the city at their own pace, taking time to snap photos of the unique animal statues and learn about their history and significance along the way.

Can I Purchase Additional Instant Films During the Tour?

Yes, visitors can purchase additional instant films during the tour if they need more than the 10 or 20 films included. The tour provider offers this option to ensure everyone can capture all the fantastic animals they discover.

Are There Any Restrictions on Where I Can Take Photos?

You’re free to take photos throughout the tour, but there may be some restrictions on where you can photograph. The guide will provide guidance on appropriate areas and any rules to follow to ensure a positive experience for everyone.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Beyond the Standard Duration?

While the standard tour duration is not extended, travelers can inquire about additional time or customizing the experience to fit their needs. The tour operator is typically accommodating and willing to work with guests to make the most of their time in Siena.

Can I Bring My Own Camera Instead of Using the Provided One?

Yes, you can bring your own camera instead of using the provided one. The tour allows flexibility, so you can choose to use your own equipment if you prefer. Just be sure to return the rental camera at the end of the experience.

The Sum Up

The 17 Fantastic Animals of Siena captivate visitors, blending medieval history with magical realism. Each whimsical sculpture tells a unique story, inspiring wonder as you explore Siena’s charming streets and piazzas. From playful lions to fierce griffins, these enchanting creations by local artisans invite you to uncover the artistic tapestry that defines this historic city.