WATCH: Italians under coronavirus lockdown sing to each other from their windows

As Italy continues its nationwide lockdown in an attempt to halt the ever spreading coronavirus, one video has captured what many are calling a heart-warming sight, as neighbours leaned out of their windows and sang together, above a desolate city street.

The video that has now gone viral was taken from a window in a neighbourhood street in Siena, Tuscany, many calling it a “beautiful” act of humanity.

“People of my hometown Siena sing a popular song from their houses along an empty street to warm their heart during the Italian COVID-19 lockdown,” wrote a Twitter user who posted the video.

The song they were singing was a folk song entitled, ‘Canto della Verbena’ (‘And While Siena Sleeps’). It would typically be sung to express local pride and this was no exception.

Traditionally, the song was sung by members of the contrada, districts that were set up during the Middle Ages to help supply troops to the military companies who were defending Siena’s independence from Florence and other nearby city states.

Many were deeply touched by the communal gesture, with some saying it brought them to tears. “People breaking out in song, lifting each other’s spirits during this tragedy, is an act of striking beauty,” said one person.

“It’s a reminder that, especially during a tragedy, the human spirit keeps us all going in hope. We shine our best in the darkness. Thank you, Siena. You made my day.”

Another said the sound was “Reminiscent of the chants from Wuhan high-rise apartments early in the epidemic there. Stay strong Italy. Praying for you guys.”

Nearly 16 million people have now been quarantined as a result of the shut down and all shops have closed, with the exception of supermarkets and pharmacies, according to the Independent.

The outbreak has taken more than 1,000 lives in Italy, and officials confirmed the tally was at 15,000 cases on Thursday.