Fact, Fiction, and Legend: Writing Urban History and Identity in Medieval and Renaissance Siena

Siena's urban identity was forged through strategic narratives, challenging its perceived lack of Roman heritage. The city countered criticism by crafting legends—such as the she-wolf and Saint Ansanus—rooted in historical materials like archives and artworks. During the Renaissance, Siena redefined its history, drawing on classical culture to assert legitimacy amid Italian rivalries. This study reveals how local identity formation in Siena was a dynamic interplay of fact, fiction, and legend, offering insights into the enduring complexity of urban narratives.

Yin, M. (2025). Fact, Fiction, and Legend: Writing Urban History and Identity in Medieval and Renaissance Siena. Religions, 16(3), 337. https://doi.org/10.3390/rel16030337