The Palio dell’Assunta: Siena’s Historic Horse Race
by Adriana ruiz
The Palio dell’Assunta in Siena is a historic and vibrant horse race held annually on August 16th. This event, deeply rooted in medieval traditions, takes place in the picturesque Piazza del Campo. It is one of the two Palios held in Siena each year, the other being the Palio di Provenzano on July 2nd.
What is the Palio dell’Assunta?
The Palio dell’Assunta is more than just a horse race; it is a celebration of Siena’s rich cultural heritage and community spirit. The race features ten of Siena’s seventeen contrade (districts), each represented by a horse and jockey. The event is steeped in tradition, with each contrada having its own unique colors, songs, and rituals.
How it will be celebrated in 2024
The 2024 Palio dell’Assunta will follow the traditional schedule, starting on August 13th with the selection and assignment of horses to the participating contrade. The days leading up to the race are filled with various trials and festivities, including the “prova generale” (general rehearsal) on the evening of August 15th.
On race day, the city of Siena comes alive with excitement. The day begins with a solemn mass at the Duomo, followed by a grand parade featuring participants in medieval costumes. The race itself is a thrilling spectacle, with horses and jockeys racing around the Piazza del Campo, which is transformed into a dirt track.
Events
1. Horse Selection and Assignment: On August 13th, horses are selected and assigned to the contrade in a ceremony that involves much anticipation and excitement, from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM at Piazza del Campo.
2. Trial Races: From August 13th to 15th, trial races are held to prepare the horses and jockeys for the main event at Piazza del Campo. Morning trials start at 9:00 AM, and evening trials start at 7:15 PM. The access gates to the Piazza close at 8:45 AM for morning trials and at 6:45 PM for evening trials, but it is recommended to be there between 8:30 AM and 8:45 AM and 6:15 PM.
3. Prova Generale: The general rehearsal on the evening of August 15th is a key event where the final preparations are made at Piazza del Campo at 7:15 PM. The access gates to the Piazza close at 6:45 PM.
4. Historical Parade: On race day, a grand parade featuring participants in medieval costumes takes place, adding to the festive atmosphere. The Historical Parade starts from the Prefecture between 3:30 PM and 4:00 PM. The parade route before entering the Piazza is: Courtyard of the Prefecture (Cortile delle Prefettura) – Piazza del Duomo – Via del Capitano – Via S. Pietro – Casato di Sopra – Casato di Sotto.
5. The Race: The main event, the Palio race, is held on August 16th, where the ten contrade compete for victory. It is recommended to enter the Piazza del Campo no later than 3:45 PM. Children under 10 years old are not admitted. The race starts at 7:00 PM.
The Palio dell’Assunta is not just about the race; it is a celebration of community and tradition. The event brings together locals and visitors alike, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere throughout the city.
*All the events are free.
* Photo by Andrea Bonfanti.
Read more about:
Exploring Italy’s Stunning Beaches by Train: A Guide for Expats
Off the Beaten Path: Unique Things to Do in Italy in Summer.
Italy’s Summer Festivals 2024
Exploring Puglia: From Beaches to Baroque Towns
An 8-Day Tour of the Amalfi Coast
Exploring Italy’s lakes by train
Italy’s Most Enchanting Towns Accessible by Train
Discover Rome’s Beaches Easily Accessible by Public Transportation
Preparing For Cooler Weather: Fall Hiking Tips For Expats
Guest Article written by Sal from Nature of Sal As summer fades into fall, the cooler weather provides a refreshing change for hikers in Rome. For expats, it’s important to adjust your hiking gear and preparation to enjoy the trails comfortably and safely. Dressing for Fall Hikes – Layering: Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, […]
Voting From Italy: Ensure Your Ballot Counts in the 2024 U.S. Elections
The General Election on November 5 is just around the corner! Please review the important guidance below to ensure you register, request your ballot, and cast your vote on time. Please review the important guidance below to ensure you register, request your ballot, and cast your vote on time. Register and request your […]
Best Cities for Expats to Buy a House in Italy
For those looking to buy a home in the country, the diversity of regions and cities offers a variety of options to suit different lifestyles, from bustling urban centers to peaceful countryside escapes. Whether you’re drawn by Italy’s art, food, or slower pace of life, the following cities stand out as top destinations for expats […]
How to Obtain the Electronic Identity Card (Carta d’Identità Elettronica) in Italy
The Electronic Identity Card (Carta d’Identità Elettronica, CIE) is the modern electronic version of the traditional paper identity card in Italy. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to obtain or renew your CIE. 1. Where and When to Apply You can apply for the CIE at your local Comune (municipality) of residence or domicile. If […]
Learn about the residence permit for digital nomads from non-EU countries working in Italy
Italy’s Investor Visa: A Visa to Attract Strategic Investments from Abroad
Find and Buy Your Ideal Property in Italy with Our Professional Services
Buying Property in Italy – How to Get a Mortgage as a Foreigner
How to Open a Bank Account in Italy as an Expat
Learn Italian and open up new possibilities for your career and personal growth
Prepare for the CILS B1 Citizenship exam to obtain citizenship by marriage, residence or study or work in Italy.
Switching to a self-employment permit from a study or job-seeking one
Understanding the Tessera Sanitaria: Your Italian Health Insurance Card
Non-Married Partners: How to Obtain a Residence Permit in Italy as De Facto Cohabitants
How to get tax identification number for foreign citizens (Codice Fiscale)
How to register in Italy as an EU citizen
Mastering Public Transport in Italy
The Advantages of Dual Citizenship with an Italian Passport: Unlocking Boundless Opportunities
What you need to know about Visas and Permits to stay in Italy
Red flags to identify a scam when renting in Italy
Leave a Comment:
You must be logged in to post a comment.