Siena
175 km from hotel Il Negresco

Siena is one of the most characteristic cities of Italy, with important monuments, palaces and squares, the most evocative is the Piazza del Campo, one of the most beautiful medieval squares in Italy.

Located in the heart of Tuscany, this city built on hills, keeps its medieval appearance intact by its characteristic narrow winding streets and historic noble buildings. The Palio of is one of the most famous, beautiful and deeply felt traditions among Italians, which leads to the huge characteristics of a religious and public party a fascinating spectacle, a cultural and historical history lesson, culminating in a wild horse race in which the pride and ardent spirit of competition of the Contrada can been seen and felt. These are singular institutions whose origin dates back to XV centuries, each corresponding to the seventeen districts of the city, all have thier own seat, its own church (distinct and independent from the parish), a museum holding the different Palios won, and also rich in other ancient and modern relics, and is governed by a “Seat” (Council) of popular election chaired by a Priori and flanked by a Captaino who all assume full power of how the race should progress.

Contradas are distinguished by their emblems and their colors. The Palio happens twice a year, on July 2nd “Palio in honor of the Madonna of Provenzano” and August 16 “Palio of the’ Assunta”.