The Palio horse race in Siena in piazza del Campo is one of the most famous popular Italian manifestations. It takes place every year on July 2 and August 16 (due to the Covid-19 health emergency, the Palio is currently suspended). The Palio is run to celebrate the miraculous apparition of the Virgin Mary near the old houses that belonged to Provenzano Salvani. The holy apparition was therefore called “Madonna di Provenzano” in whose honour the very first Palio was run on August 16, 1656. The Palio was run for the first time in 1701 in honour of the “Madonna dell’Assunta” the patroness and Advocate of Siena through all the tragic events since she protected the Sienese militia at the famous battle of Monteaperti on September 4, 1260, against the Florentines.
The Palio is a historical secular tradition strictly connected with the origin of the Contradas of Siena (districts into which the town is divided). The Contradas are spectacular agonistic institutions each having their own government, oratory, coat of arms, appellations, sometimes titles of nobility, emblems and colours, official representatives, festivities, patron Saints, with protectors, delimited territories and population which consist of all those people who were born or live within the topographic limits of the district, according to the proclamation issued by Violante Beatrice of Bavaria on January 7, 1730, at that time, Governess of the town.
This traditional popular manifestation lasts four days (from June 29 to July 2 and from August 13 to 16) and finishes in the streets of the victorious “Contrada” where the people celebrate the happy event in a most joyous way. Winner pays all.
Whoever happens to be in Siena during these exciting days can, but join in the enthusiasm of the people for the Palio and, of course, the final victory. Visitors, in fact, often go roaming through the winding streets of the ancient town sympathizing with the “Contrada” in which they are living; they do their best to understand the alliances and rivalries between the contradas and temporarily become fervent “contradaioli” (as the inhabitants of each Contrada are called) having much at heart the health of the race horse and of the jockey.
Are you attending the famous Palio di Siena?
For our guests that will be so lucky to attend one of the dates of this event, the Hotel Brunelleschi offers a complete and exclusive transfer service.
A luxurious Mercedes “E” will pick you up at our Hotel Brunelleschi and bring you in Siena, where one of the most awaited summer events of all Tuscany will take place. After the show the driver will be already waiting for you to take you back to your elegant and confortable rooms.
Will be available on board all our elegant cars:
– Wi-Fi
– Bottle of water
– Refreshing Wipes
For information and reservation please contact us at info@hotelbrunelleschi.it or by phone +39.055.27370.
