The Palio of Siena

A friend recently sent me these pictures of the Palio of Siena, the famous horse race and one of the most important pageants of our province.

Every year, in July and then in August, a horse race is held in the Piazza del Campo, the main square of Siena, where horse races have been organized since the 13th century. 

In the race, 10 of the 17 "contrade" or "wards" of Siena compete to win the "palio" or "banner".

The exciting race and the accompanying pageantry is one of the most thrilling moments in the cultural life of Siena.

The photos are by Photo Fabio MUZZI © http://www.fabiomuzzi.it