PIAZZA DEL CAMPO (SIENA MAIN SQUARE) lies at the heart of Siena and has served as a focus for life in the city for centuries. It is widely regarded as the finest Medieval square in Europe and twice a year, in July and August, provides a splendid backdrop for the Corsa del Palio, a fast and furious bareback horse race dating back to the 15th century. Next to the Palazzo Pubblico stands the Torre del Mangia (Mangia Tower), a belltower which rises to 102m (334ft); from the top are seen views of the winding cobbled streets which fan out from the piazza, and timeless vistas of the Tuscan countryside. The magnificent DUOMO close by.