The Palio of Siena, a famous horse race dating back to the 17th century, resumed its run in the Tuscan city’s main square on Saturday after a two-year hiatus due to Covid-19. The horse won the race in the colors of the Dragon District.
After a two-year forced stop, we had to abandon our famous festival, the city, its surroundings and all the people of Siena have joyfully and enthusiastically recovered their culture, their traditions and their values, the mayor welcomed before the race. of the city, Luigi de Mossi, was quoted by the daily La Repubblica.
Thousands of people gathered in the magnificent Piazza del Campo, an architectural gem recognizable by its curved and sloping shape like an amphitheater. Among those present was the Speaker of the US House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, who had earlier met with Pope Francis via Rome.
Lashes are allowed
The race pits seventeen ‘odds’ or ten of the city’s districts against each other and participants are drawn by lot. The winner is the horse that completes the first three laps of the place, which often happens. The district that loses the race will be ranked second and not last.
In the ring, riders have the right to hit other horses and riders.
The race is very fast, but all the rites and rituals surrounding it make the event exceptional: a huge parade in period costumes, the blessing of the horses, feasts. The winner receives a painted silk flag called a ‘paleo’ specially designed for each race.
The Palio takes place twice a year, on July 2 and August 16, and each time attracts tourists from all over the world.
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