Palio di Siena

One of the greatest spectacles Italy has to offer is the Palio in Siena. The horse race is held twice each year in the Piazza del Campo. Competitors from the 17 contrade( city quarters) take part bearing their areas colours. Siena’s 17 contrade were armies created in the Middle Ages to defend the city after they won their independence from Florence. Ten contrade take part in the first race on July 2.The other seven plus three from the July race compete on August 16. The historical costumes worn throughout the festivities bring back the atmosphere from the golden age of the Republic of Siena.

Piazza del Campo