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"Il Palio" di Siena is a traditional and spectacular horse race held every year on the 2nd July (Palio di Provenzano) and on the 16th August (Palio dell'Assunta). What makes this horse race special is that it takes place in the very centre of the medieval Siena town centre, in a semi-circular...
more"Il Palio" di Siena is a traditional and spectacular horse race held every year on the 2nd July (Palio di Provenzano) and on the 16th August (Palio dell'Assunta). What makes this horse race special is that it takes place in the very centre of the medieval Siena town centre, in a semi-circular square called "Piazza del Campo". The surface is uneven and its shape is that of a medieval Roman amphitheatre closed at the base by the straight line of the "Palazzo Pubblico". The first modern Palio took place around 1650.The horse and rider represent one of the seventeen Contrade (city wards) and they are dressed in the colours and arms of the Contrade: Aquila, Bruco, Chiocciola, Civetta, Drago, Giraffa, Istrice, Leocorno, Lupa, Nicchio, Oca, Onda, Pantera, Selva, Tartuca, Torre and Valdimontone.
Only ten of the city wards can take part in the Palio on any occasion. The trophy for the winner is a banner of silk, the "Palio".
Trial races are run before the real "Palio". The race itself is preceded by other performances (e.g. flag-wavers in medieval costumes). Spectators arrive very early in the morning, filling completely the town square, inside the track, and also the surrounding buildings and streets. The race runs for three laps, the corners of the square are covered with crash barriers for the horses. 9 horses start from the starting line and the 10th (called "rincorsa") stands behind and steps at the end, when the Mossiere removes the "canapo", the starting cord. The winner is the first horse to cross the finish line, the jockey does not necessarily need to be there. However, until the riders are there, they are allowed to use their whip with their own horse but also for disturbing other Contrade's horses.
The atmosphere and the tension in the square and in Siena before, during and after the Palio are amazing.
Please remind that the "Palio" is not organized on purpose for tourists, it is a local event strictly connected to the people of Siena and to the city's history. It might be not suitable for people who do not like large crowds gathered together, it can also be very hot and uncomfortable if you are standing in the middle of the square (watching the "Palio" from there is free). There are drinks on sale but there are no toilets. Via Giovanni Dupré, one of the streets around "Piazza del Campo", is sealed by the authorities only a few minutes before the race starts, but it is almost impossible to access the Piazza from anywhere else.
Once the race is over, the celebrations start. Be careful as sometimes they can be rough.close
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