What is the Palio di Siena?
Information and history of the Contrade of Siena
It’s one of the most celebrated events in Italy and famous all over the world. The Palio di Siena is a competition between the city’s seventeen Contrade (neighbourhoods) of very ancient origins.
On this page, you will find all the information related to Siena’s great historical and religious events including secrets, trivia and anecdotes. As well as the tradition and rules of this race that attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world every year in the summer.
Discover the Palio di Siena
The Contrade of Siena
A social place and symbol of belonging for the Sienese. The term ‘contrada’ appears in Sienese sources as early as
Fontanine di Contrada
In Siena every citizen is baptized twice: in the church and then in the contrada to which they belong… with
History of the Palio
This is how the famous Sienese tradition originated The word palio derives from the Latin ‘pallium’ meaning drape. In the
Contrada Oratories and the Blessing of the Horse
In Siena, the sacred and the profane are constantly intertwined, even in church. The Palio is just around the corner:
The Palio di Siena festival
Sacred and profane blend together and ancient traditions are revived in the streets of Siena. The events that mark the
The winner’s Drappellone
The prize for the triumphant Contrada in Piazza del Campo in Siena The Drappellone, also called ‘Palio’ or ‘Cencio’ by
