The Palio

This classic horse race whose origins can be traced back over 700 years is a must see event. Imagine the occasion where ten horses and their jockeys race around the Piazza del Campo of this medieval city of Siena, at the centre of which is some 60,000 spectators whose passion and fervour has to be seen to be believed. Included, naturally, in such an historic event, is all the pomp and pageantry you would expect reflecting its long traditions and customs.

Siena

During the middle ages Siena fought a long battle to establish its fiercely held independence from Florence and other nearby city states. The existing seventeen contrada or districts that make up the Siena of today were formed for military and administrative reason to help defend the city. These roles have now expanded and are bound by the common emotions and interests of each contrada.

Each year these emotions are reflected in the Palio, an event as fiercely fought over as any past battle. Ten contrada contest each race where each highly paid jockey does not even have to finish in the saddle for the horse to win the event. Each contrada has its own symbol and colours such as ‘Goose’, ‘Dragon’, ‘Shell’ etc and you should choose your contrada and give it your full support and really engage in the race.

Camping Collerverde

This city based campsite has undergone a major refurbishment over the winter and boasts brand new facilities including shower blocks, restaurant, bar and 3-metre swimming pool — the perfect location from which to visit the city.

Getting there

Siena is serviced by both bus and train and there is a direct shuttle service to and from Pisa airport into which budget airlines such as Easyjet fly.

What's Included:

• Three nights accommodation (as selected: Camping or Cabins)
• Three breakfasts
• Welcome drink on night of arrival
• A three-course lunch with wine
• Viewing of one of the pre-race ‘trials’
• Guided walking tour of Siena
• Full Palio race day including entrance to main square and viewing of parade
• Services of Festival Adventures tour guide