Experience the magic of the Palio di Siena with our exclusive tickets!
Since the 1200s, Siena has been home to a thrilling horse race, and documents from before the 12th century recall a 'Palio di San Bonifazio', named after the patron saint of the ancient cathedral that once stood in Castelvecchio. In that era, the town's emblem was proudly displayed in the square of the New Cathedral, heralding the arrival of the exhilarating horse race. When Siena rose to become one of the wealthiest and most cultured cities in medieval Europe, the Palio became the crowning glory of the annual festivities, a joyous celebration of the Virgin Mary's Assumption, the patron saint of Siena and its state. The highlight of the festivities was the ceremony of offering candles and censi in the cathedral, a religious and political rite, a symbol of devotion to the Madonna of the Sienese and of submission to the rulers of the Municipality of Siena.
From world renowned wines to our award winning distilleries, and everything in between - here are the key sites to see when you visit.
From world renowned wines to our award winning distilleries, and everything in between - here are the key sites to see when you visit.
The balconies are private viewpoints on historic buildings, while the palco (grandstands or bleachers as they are called) are elevated structures along the perimeter of the square.
Private-use balconies or windows inside historic buildings, allowing guests to watch the event in a more exclusive and comfortable setting, often with catering and dedicated service.
Only 10 of the 17 Contrade, or districts, compete in each race. The remaining 7 are automatically registered for the following year, and 3 are randomly selected 1 month before the race.
AQUILA (Eagle): a double headed eagle with imperial symbols. Colours: yellow with black and blue bands.
CHIOCCIOLA (Snail): yellow and red with blue bands.
ONDA (Wave): a swimming dolphin wearing a crown. White and blue.
PANTERA (Panther): a rampant panther. Red and blue with white bands.
SELVA (Forest): a rhinoceros bearing a huge tree hung with hunting implements. Green and orange-yellow with white bands.
TARTUCA (Tortoise): yellow and blue.
CIVETTA (Owl): black and red with white bands.
LEOCORNO (Unicorn): white and orange-yellow with biue bands.
NICCHIO (Shell): a sea-shell “Nicchio” means sea-shell. Blue with yellow and red bands.
TORRE (Tower): an elephant with a tower on its back. Dark red with white and blue bands.
VALDIMONTONE or simply MONTONE (Ram) a rampant ram. White and yellow with red bands.
BRUCO (Caterpillar) a caterpillar. Colours: Yellow and green with blue bands.
DRAGO (Dragon) a flying dragon. Red and green with yellow bands.
GIRAFFA (Giraffe) a Giraffe. White and red.
ISTRICE (Porcupine) a porcupine. White, red, black and blue bands.
LUPA (She-Wolf) the Roman She-Wolf suckling the twins. Black and white with orange-yellow bands.
OCA (Goose) a crowned goose with the cross of Savoia round its neck. White and green with red bands..
The balconies are exclusive viewpoints located in the historic buildings of Piazza del Campo. They offer a privileged view of the Palio, ensuring a unique and captivating atmosphere.
The grandstands are elevated structures located along the perimeter of Piazza del Campo, offering a privileged and immersive viewing experience during the Palio
Exclusive opportunities that allow guests to experience the city's traditions, with unique activities to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the Palio.
