The Palio di Siena festival
Sacred and profane blend together and ancient traditions are revived in the streets of Siena.
June 28, 2022
Among the cities of Tuscany, Siena is certainly one of the most beloved and visited. The city is a medieval masterpiece, a place rich in history, art and traditions still rooted in the Sienese.
From the old town to the suburbs toward the walls, you can visit museums, churches, aristocratic palaces, parks and botanical gardens, workshops and old bakeries. But in addition to the best-known sites, Siena also hides fascinating and diverse attractions outside the city. From tours of the surroundings to sporting events, which invite visitors to get lost in the Sienese countryside, as well as cultural and religious events.
They say that the Palio is not seen, but experienced. At least once in your life, you should experience the Palio di Siena and participate in the life of the 17 Contrade (neighbourhoods). It’s a competition of medieval origin that warms the hearts of the Sienese in the central Piazza del Campo square, which is why it’s considered a unique and enveloping experience amidst coats of arms and hallmark colours.
We must make it clear, this is not an event designed for tourists, nor is it a folkloric event. The Palio is a real ‘battle’ that fully engages every citizen of Siena, men and women, young and old. The Palio is held on 2 July and 16 August every year, preceded by spectacular and colourful historical processions.
On the roads of Monte Sante Marie, in the province of Siena, a cycling race is held every March called Strade Bianche (white roads), originally called Monte Paschi Eroica, The route features sections of ‘white roads’, which are the dirt roads typical of the Tuscan countryside, making it a unique race in the Italian context and beyond.
Siena boasts a prestigious historical-architectural heritage. We recommend you start your walk early in the day and lose yourself among the narrow medieval alleys, stairways, gates, scenic terraces and striking monuments for which the city is famous worldwide including the Cathedral, Torre del Mangia towerand Palazzo Pubblico.
During this city tour, those who love shopping will find several workshops to purchase local handicrafts and typical Sienese delicacies.
For those with a sporty spirit, we recommend exploring the enchanting landscapes of Chianti and Val D’Orcia by bike. Eroica® is an exciting cycling event that allows you to pedal on the white roads and trails through the legendary Tuscan landscape.
Sacred and profane blend together and ancient traditions are revived in the streets of Siena.
A majestic cycle of 15th-century frescoes in the ancient hospital of Siena In the frescoes
A small, charming theatre that has hosted performances and concerts in Siena for centuries. Beyond
The ancient shortcut to Siena Cathedral Go up Via di Monna Agnese, Via delle Campane
This is how the famous Sienese tradition originated The word palio derives from the Latin
A romantic walk amidst greenery in the historic centre of Siena. A few steps away
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