Thinking of booking a walking holiday for this summer? Experience the Siena Palio in July, an event highlighting the heritage and culture of Tuscany, with the help of the EasyWays walking holiday team.
Take a look at our last post to find out more about the Via Francigena route.

The Siena Palio – Highlight of the Via Francigena

What is the Siena Palio?

The Palio is the most important event in Siena. It takes place on the 2nd of July and 16th of August every year. In the Palio, the various Sienese “Contrade,” or areas into which the city is divided, challenge each other in a passionate bare-back horse race in the heart of the city in the Piazza del Campo. Originally, there were about 59 Contrade now there are 17. 10 of which take part in the historical pageant and in the race at each Palio.
The 17 Contrade which still exist today are: the Eagle, Snail, Wave, Panther, Forest, Tortoise, Owl, Unicorn, Shell, Tower, Ram, Caterpillar, Dragon, Giraffe, Porcupine, She-Wolf and the Goose.
Each Contrada has its own unique emblem and colours which represents an area of the city. As you walk through the streets of Siena it is easy find out which Contrada you currently are in by observing the flags and emblems displayed along the street. Much like street signs, corners often designate the entrance into a different Contrada with signs. EasyWays can arrange your Via Francigena walk to coincide with being in fabulous Siena on a Palio date with tribune tickets provided as an optional extra.

Best Time of Year to Walk the Via Francigena

To discover and learn about Tuscan history, summer is definitely the best time of year to walk the Via Francigena. Not only can you immerse yourself in local events and taste delicacies whilst in the Italian sunshine, the EasyWays walking route package can be completely tailored to your specific needs. From the West Highland Way to the Isle of Skye, EasyWays will organise your dream walking holiday in Scotland or Europe.
Trust EasyWays to arrange your Italian walking adventure, today!