The Palio dell’Assunta: Siena’s Historic Horse Race

by Adriana ruiz

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The Palio dell’Assunta in Siena is a historic and vibrant horse race held annually on August 16th. This event, deeply rooted in medieval traditions, takes place in the picturesque Piazza del Campo. It is one of the two Palios held in Siena each year, the other being the Palio di Provenzano on July 2nd.

What is the Palio dell’Assunta?

The Palio dell’Assunta is more than just a horse race; it is a celebration of Siena’s rich cultural heritage and community spirit. The race features ten of Siena’s seventeen contrade (districts), each represented by a horse and jockey. The event is steeped in tradition, with each contrada having its own unique colors, songs, and rituals.

How it will be celebrated in 2024

The 2024 Palio dell’Assunta will follow the traditional schedule, starting on August 13th with the selection and assignment of horses to the participating contrade. The days leading up to the race are filled with various trials and festivities, including the “prova generale” (general rehearsal) on the evening of August 15th.

On race day, the city of Siena comes alive with excitement. The day begins with a solemn mass at the Duomo, followed by a grand parade featuring participants in medieval costumes. The race itself is a thrilling spectacle, with horses and jockeys racing around the Piazza del Campo, which is transformed into a dirt track.

Events

1. Horse Selection and Assignment: On August 13th, horses are selected and assigned to the contrade in a ceremony that involves much anticipation and excitement, from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM at Piazza del Campo.
2. Trial Races: From August 13th to 15th, trial races are held to prepare the horses and jockeys for the main event at Piazza del Campo. Morning trials start at 9:00 AM, and evening trials start at 7:15 PM. The access gates to the Piazza close at 8:45 AM for morning trials and at 6:45 PM for evening trials, but it is recommended to be there between 8:30 AM and 8:45 AM and 6:15 PM.
3. Prova Generale: The general rehearsal on the evening of August 15th is a key event where the final preparations are made at Piazza del Campo at 7:15 PM. The access gates to the Piazza close at 6:45 PM.
4. Historical Parade: On race day, a grand parade featuring participants in medieval costumes takes place, adding to the festive atmosphere. The Historical Parade starts from the Prefecture between 3:30 PM and 4:00 PM. The parade route before entering the Piazza is: Courtyard of the Prefecture (Cortile delle Prefettura) – Piazza del Duomo – Via del Capitano – Via S. Pietro – Casato di Sopra – Casato di Sotto.
5. The Race: The main event, the Palio race, is held on August 16th, where the ten contrade compete for victory. It is recommended to enter the Piazza del Campo no later than 3:45 PM. Children under 10 years old are not admitted. The race starts at 7:00 PM.

The Palio dell’Assunta is not just about the race; it is a celebration of community and tradition. The event brings together locals and visitors alike, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere throughout the city.

*All the events are free.

* Photo by Andrea Bonfanti.

 

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