Overview
A noble and austere building
Built between 1561 and 1563 by order of the Duke of Florence Cosimo I de' Medici, the Medici Fortress stands in beautiful Siena. It is located in the vicinity of the San Prospero district, close to the historic city centre. Also known as the Santa Barbara Fort, the structure recounts the military events that characterised the town in the 16th century.
Originally built in an 'L' shape, the structure was later modified to its current quadrangular plan with four pentagonal bastions, each bearing the Medici coat of arms in travertine.
The Fortezza Medicea, which is made entirely of brick, is considerably large. The total perimeter is about 1,500 metres and, along the top of the walls, run avenues lined with benches and trees that are perfect for strolling along. From this elevated position there is a wonderful panorama of the city.
On its inside, the building hosts numerous temporary exhibitions while externally it is surrounded by the Rimembranza Park which almost seems to embrace the entire structure with the Lizza gardens and the scenic San Prospero fountain.
