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
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 stables
The stable is a sacred place where the horse is kept during the Palio of Siena. The Palio is four
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 Masgalano
Coveted prize won by the most elegant performers in both historical parades. On the day of the Palio di Siena,
Contrada museums
History and traditions of the people of Siena. The city of Siena is historically divided into 17 contrade (neighbourhoods), which