Twice year at the beginning of July and mid of August, the city of Siena celebrates Palio. Patio is horse race that and don’t even think this is something for the tourists. People in Siena live for it. There are seventeen contrada that has their own symbol and color and they take part in this race.
Though siena is a medieval city made in dark stone but during this horse race the whole place is thronged with colors. Each street and contrada blossoms in its own unique colors. This horse race is held in one of the most beautiful squares of the world. But this isn’t just the race; it is a kind of a war where every jockey keeps an eye only on his horse but on the opponents as well.
This is a kind of race with no holds barred. The whip is used not only to drive horse but hit other opponents as well. Even the crowd goes crazy, each individual supporting their own contrada, crying and exulting. And if your contrada wins you are happy for throughout the year. Visit Piazza del Campo and experience the three minute adrenaline rush through your veins
Keep the contrada war aside, this race has some religious aspects in it as well, rooted deep into the cult of Madonna. The winning horse is taken to the cathedral for thanks giving.
For tourists this can be the best moment to experience and enjoy. Though the tourists hardly understand anything what’s happening, but they will surely like after race celebrations. They can even book a dinner with contrada. Thee is nothing similar, nothing close to Palio Race in Italy. Entry to Piazza Del Campo is totally free but you have to rush there early morning because it can become quite difficult to cut the tightly packed crowd.
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