The Palio of Siena

one of the contrade's flag bearers

The Palio of Siena is a traditional bareback horse race, which takes place each year in Siena in Tuscany, in the heart of the historical city centre, on the famous square Piazza del Campo, generally on July 2nd and August 16th.

The Palio is not an event which is organized for the purposes of tourism: it is the life of the people of Siena in time and in its various aspects and feelings. It has ancient origins and some rules are still valid since 1644, the year in which the first Palio was run. 

Tuscany's most popular attractions

Things to go and see if you visit Tuscany for the first time.

There are plenty of beautiful towns and places in Tuscany which are all worth a visit: the golden triangle with the cities of art of Florence, Siena and Arezzo; the most beautiful historic towns, or the extensive coastline and the islands of Elba and Giglio. Where do you begin if you are in Tuscany for the first time?
This is the list of the most famous places in Tuscany. Make sure you visit these places to become familiar with Italy's most attractive region, Tuscany.