Art & Culture
The Palio di Siena
The famous Palio di Siena horse race is held in the medieval city’s Piazza del Campo twice a year on 2nd July and 16th August. It is spectacular and somewhat insane!
Apart from the big race, other side events such as race trials and historical parades, take place in the preceding days.
Siena is only around 25 minutes from Villa Cetinale, and if your stay coincides with the Palio, it is worth visiting in the days leading up to the race as well as on the day itself.
This is when the city really changes character: contrada flags line the streets, processions appear throughout the centre and neighbourhood celebrations begin to take over. The race lasts barely more than a minute, but the build-up is a large part of what makes the Palio so memorable.
Away from the Campo, Siena remains one of Tuscany’s most beautiful cities. Visit the Duomo, explore its winding streets, or stop for lunch on one of the quieter squares before returning to the peace of the estate.
For private transport, local guides or advice on viewing locations around Piazza del Campo, the house manager will be happy to assist.
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