Il Palio Siena horse race carries on an 800-year-old tradition, making it the oldest horse race in the world. The race is held twice a year and competitors represent a contrade, or city district. The July 2 race, called Palio di Provenzano, pays tribute to the Madonna of Provenzano. The Aug. 16 race is the Palio dell’Assunta and honors the Assumption of Mary.

Il Palio Siena

Siena racing has roots dating back to the 6th century, but became more recognized in the 14th century. Il Palio Siena developed after bull fighting was outlawed in 1590 and was officially introduced in 1633. The contrades organize races and each contrade, or district, has a competing horse and jockey. The Piazza de Campo, or main square, has always been a common area for entertainment, so it was natural to use it for horses to race through the city. The Palio di Siena is an important event for locals, both in culture and in tourism. Locals spend most of the year planning for it.

The Il Palio Siena really is an event lasting four days. The first day is filled with drawing lots and horse assignments for each contrade. There are 17 contrades, but only 10 are allowed to compete for safety reasons. Those contrades not participating the last race are automatically entered while a lottery is held for the last three spots. Contrades can pick their jockeys, who ride without saddles, but horses are drawn in a lottery. Pure bred horses are not allowed. Officials prepare the race route with dirt, set up bleachers and other activities to accommodate 50,000 people. Six heats are held over the next three days.

Il Palio Siena

Race day is a spectacular event that begins with an 8 a.m. blessing by the Bishop, followed by the mayor certifying jockeys and horses and a contrade blessing ceremony of each horse. It culminates with a the Corteo Storico, a fabulous pageant complete with Medieval costumes, flags, and sword-wielding carabinieri on horseback. Throngs of thousands are invited to dine outside in each contrade prior to racing. The race starts at 7:30 p.m. lasts 90 seconds, but the event continues with street parties.

Tuscany Day Trip to Siena and San Gimignano from Florence

Every day at 9am 8 hrs

Il Palio Siena

The Il Palio Siena is known for its culture, tradition and pageantry, making it a destination for many around the world. It is an event that wraps around the city, involves every part of the city and showcases hospitality. It is something not found anywhere else in the world, making it something to do at least once in your life.

Il Palio Siena

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