Alberto Angela explores the Piccolomini Altarpiece with sculptures by Michelangelo, and the beautiful frescoed Piccolomini Library within the walls of the Siena Cathedral

The Siena Cathedral is large, but it was supposed to have become much, much bigger. Alberto Angela tells the fascinating story.

We have a look at two important medieval manuscripts in the State Archives. They are the original Constitution of the Republic of Siena. Alberto Angela gives us some fascinating facts concerning it that reaffirm how wise the rulers of that republic were.

How could accounting books be so fascinating? The ones from the State Archives in Siena are veritable works of art and tell some interesting stories.

Alberto Angela shows us a volume from 1554 that bears witness to one of the most dramatic moments in Sienese history. We then go on to the beautiful city of Pienza.

Franco is crazy about spices. He draws us into his world, the world of the 7 (not just 5) senses. In his stream of consciousness style, he prepares us for traveling the four corners of the earth to discover all the tastes and fragrances awaiting us.

The Republic of Siena ends in the 16th century and power goes to Florence, where we go next, to see some of the architectural wonders there.

Franco Calafatti knows a great deal about spices but he also loves to experiment. The star of this segment is cinnamon.

This video focuses on one of the most famous artists of all time, Leonardo da Vinci. In particular, we start looking at one of his greatest masterpieces, the Last Supper.

We look at Leonardo's Last Supper from close up — the details, the symbolism — but also from the refectory floor, seeing how Leonardo's genius made the fresco part of the room itself.

This fascinating segment is all about salt: Our spice journey takes us to Sicily, where much of Italy's salt is harvested. Franco talks about how salt is life, salt is gold.

Two geniuses left their indelible marks on civilization: Leonardo with the Last Supper and Michelangelo with his David.

Franco shows us some infused salts that we would never think of off hand. His descriptions are colorful and make us want to try out these delicacies.

This episode will take us to Umbria. We start with one of the most beautiful cities in the region, Assisi, a city that's practically synonymous with the Franciscan monastic order and its founder, Saint Francis.

Nobody in the class volunteers to talk about the Molise region, but by chance, Anna gets called on. And we get to learn all about this small region.