Siena was first inhabited by the Etruscans in 900-400 BC.  According to local legend, it was founded by Remus’ sons Senius and Aschius.  When Remus was killed by his brother Romulus, the brothers fled Rome.  With them, they took the statue of the suckling she-wolf suckling the twins, which would become a symbol of the town.

The Republic of Siena began in 1125, and existing for over 400 years.  During the Middle Ages, it was one of the major economic powers, as well as one of the most important commercial, financial, and artistic centers in Europe.  Its economic decline was sparked by the Black Death in 1346, which reduced the population of Siena from 42,000 people to 14,000 people.  

Siena is considered the one of the most well-preserved Medieval cities in the world.  After the 16th century, the majority of construction occurred outside of the city walls, essentially preserving the city within.