Siena’s Palio: Tradition, Rivalry and History Ahead of the July 2 Race

With just days to go before the Palio of July 2, Siena has unveiled the Drappellone, the painted silk banner that will be awarded to the winning contrada in the city’s historic horse race. This year’s banner was created by Trentino artist Ismaele Nones and, alongside the traditional dedication to the Madonna of Provenzano, references the 800th anniversary of the death of Saint Francis of Assisi.

The presentation of the Drappellone is one of the most anticipated moments leading up to the Palio. While the race itself lasts little more than a minute, it is the culmination of centuries of history, intense neighbourhood rivalries and civic traditions that remain central to life in Siena.

More than a horse race

Held twice a year in Siena’s shell-shaped Piazza del Campo, the Palio is one of Italy’s oldest and most distinctive public events. The race takes place on July 2, dedicated to the Madonna of Provenzano, and on August 16, dedicated to the Assumption of Mary.

Ten horses and riders compete in each race, representing ten of Siena’s seventeen contrade, or historic city districts. The participating contrade change according to a rotation system and previous results.

For residents, the Palio is far more than a sporting contest. Each contrada functions as a social and cultural community with its own museum, traditions, colours, symbols and headquarters. Many Sienese identify strongly with their district throughout their lives.

The importance of the Drappellone

Although the winning horse receives widespread attention, the real prize is the Drappellone — often called the Cencio by locals. The banner is commissioned from a different artist for each race and typically combines religious themes, references to Siena’s history and contemporary artistic interpretations.

This year’s work by Nones includes symbols linked to the city, such as the Balzana — Siena’s black-and-white coat of arms — as well as references to the legend of the city’s origins and to Saint Francis. The artist also drew inspiration from the so-called “Little Testament of Siena”, a brief text dictated by Francis during a stay in the city in 1226.

After the race, the Drappellone is carried in celebration to the winning contrada, where it becomes part of the district’s historical collection.

A tradition watched around the world

The Palio attracts thousands of visitors from Italy and abroad every year. In the days leading up to the race, Siena hosts historical processions, religious ceremonies, horse trials and neighbourhood dinners that bring together residents and visitors.

While the event is deeply rooted in local identity, it has become one of Tuscany’s best-known cultural traditions internationally, offering a glimpse into a form of civic life that has survived for centuries.

Practical information

The next Palio will take place on 2 July 2026 in Piazza del Campo, the main square in Siena, about 75 kilometres south of Florence.

Access to the centre of the square is free but limited by capacity, while balconies, windows and reserved seating areas are generally booked well in advance. Visitors are advised to arrive several hours before the race, as large crowds gather throughout the day.

The race itself lasts only a few laps around the square, but the celebrations and ceremonies surrounding it continue long after the winning contrada crosses the finish line.

(Cover photo Roberto Vicario via Wikipedia)

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