Palio di Siena

Italy · horse racing · tradition

Bareback horse racing. Ten riders race on horses without saddles, dressed in colorful costumes that represent different neighborhoods called contrade. The riders lean forward and hold on tight as their horses gallop around the ancient streets.

Ancient city tradition. The Palio di Siena started in the 17th century and is still held exactly twice each year, on July 2nd and August 16th. People in Siena have been celebrating with these races for over 300 years.

Races honor Mary. The July race is named Palio di Provenzano to celebrate a special religious icon from Siena. The August race is named Palio dell'Assunta to honor the Assumption of Mary, both important to people in the city.

City wards compete. Ten of Siena's seventeen contrade take turns racing in the Palio. Each contrada is like a neighborhood family, and being chosen to race is a huge honor.