The Palio di Siena

The annual horse race in Siena is considered the toughest in Italy! Every year, on July 2nd and August 16th, the beautiful “Piazza del Campo” in Siena transforms into a racecourse, and the whole city fills with excitement.

The “Palio di Siena” originated in the Middle Ages when the “contrade” were founded as military companies assigned to individual districts. These companies cared for the well-being of the population during peaceful times and organized games and competitions.

History and Rules

From the beginning, the Palio served as an outlet for the population’s feelings and to resolve small enmities between the “contrade.” Strict rules govern the Palio. Only ten of the 17 “contrade” can race each year. Seven did not participate the previous year, and three are chosen by lot. The organizers also allocate the horses to the participating “contrade” by lot. A few days before the actual race, a rehearsal takes place on the Campo, covered with sand and clay.

Race Day

On race day, the whole city enters a state of excitement. The districts decorate everything with their colors and flags. In Siena, nothing runs as usual. Early in the morning, the district churches bless the riders, and in the afternoon, they bless the horses. Starting at 3 p.m., a two-hour procession begins at cathedral square, accompanied by flag-wavers, heading to “Piazza del Campo.”

At 7:30 p.m., the crowd’s excitement peaks as the dangerous race without a saddle begins. The riders and their horses must circle the place with the dangerous curve three times. The winner receives the elaborately embroidered standard, the “Palio,” and can decorate his “contrade” with the trophy until the next race.