Friday, October 9, 2026
Siena boasts such an abundance of art and architecture that it can be daunting to know where to begin. In this walking tour, you’ll be guided through the medieval heart of the city to uncover hidden corners, all thanks to a personalized itinerary crafted specifically for guests of the Siena Awards. It’s an adventure delving into Siena’s most intimate and quiet spots, far from the tourist crowds.
The morning walk will conclude in the evocative setting of the Natural History Museum of the Accademia dei Fisiocritici, where the inauguration of the Flamingo Bob exhibition by Dutch photographer Jasper Doest will take place. A buffet will be offered at the end of the event to celebrate the occasion.
In the afternoon, you’ll have the opportunity to attend the SIPA Talks, one of the most anticipated events during the festival’s opening days. Here, some of the most prominent photographers on the international scene will offer a unique opportunity to explore their most significant retrospectives and latest reportages.
An exclusive aperitif dinner will be held in the Courtyard of the Podestà, a unique venue generously offered by the Municipality of Siena exclusively for Siena Awards guests. It is an opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable experience and to connect with photographers from around the world, sharing a rare moment of interaction and friendly exchange.
The day will conclude with a talk by James Nachtwey, one of the most influential contemporary photojournalists, who will explore conflicts and crises through iconic images, examining the role of photography as both a historical testimony and an ethical form of visual storytelling.
INFO
Meeting point: Basilica of San Domenico – Siena
Time: 9:30 am to 11:00 am
Flamingo Bob Exhibition opening: from 11:30 pm
SIPA Talks: from 2:45 pm to 7:45 pm
Welcome Aperitif: from 7:45 pm
Interview with James Nachtwey: from 9:30 pm
