In July students experience the world-renowned horse race, the Palio di Siena. This summer festival first began in the early 14th century and is marked by a series of intense bareback horse races between the seventeen contrade, or neighborhoods, of the city. The winning contrade receives the palio (a large silver plate), a silk banner, and months of intense celebrations.
Palio di Siena
In July students experience the world-renowned horse race, the Palio di Siena. This summer festival first began in the early 14th century and is marked by a series of intense bareback horse races between the seventeen contrade, or neighborhoods, of the city. The winning contrade receives the palio (a large silver plate), a silk banner, and months of intense celebrations.