The Palio di Siena is one of Italy's most iconic and historic events, drawing tourists and enthusiasts from around the world. At the heart of this centuries-old celebration are the contrade, each with its own history, symbols, and traditions.
The contrade of Siena date back to the medieval period when the city was divided into military districts for defensive purposes. Over the centuries, these units evolved into civic communities with a strong territorial identity. These small territorial and social units of Siena not only compete in the Palio but also play a fundamental role in the community life of the city.
The Palio di Siena
The Palio di Siena is one of the most iconic and engaging traditions of the Tuscan city. It is a horse race held twice a year, on July 2 (Palio di Provenzano) and August 16 (Palio dell'Assunta), in the famous Piazza del Campo. This event has its roots in the Middle Ages and continues to be celebrated with great enthusiasm and passion by the Sienese and visitors from around the world. The race features 10 of Siena's 17 contrade, each represented by a horse and jockey, competing for victory and the prestigious hand-painted banner, the Palio. The race is filled with emotions, rivalries, and folklore, attracting thousands of spectators each year.
Palio di Siena, with the Selva in the lead
The 17 Contrade of the Palio di Siena
The 17 contrade of Siena are divided into various areas of the city, each possessing its own distinctive identity. Here is a list of the contrade and their symbols:
- Aquila: Represented by a crowned eagle, colors gold, black, and blue.
- Bruco: Symbolized by a crowned caterpillar, colors yellow and green.
- Chiocciola: Represented by a snail, colors brick red and yellow.
- Civetta: Symbolized by an owl, colors red and black with white stripes.
- Drago: Represented by a winged dragon, colors green and red with yellow stripes.
- Giraffa: Symbolized by a crowned giraffe, colors white and red.
- Istrice: Represented by a porcupine, colors white, red, black, and blue.
- Leocorno: Symbolized by a rearing unicorn, colors orange and white.
- Lupa: Represented by a she-wolf nursing Romulus and Remus, colors black and white with orange stripes.
- Nicchio: Symbolized by a seashell, colors red, yellow, and blue.
- Oca: Represented by a crowned goose, colors white and green with red stripes.
- Onda: Symbolized by a crowned dolphin, colors white and light blue.
- Pantera: Represented by a black panther, colors red, blue, and white.
- Selva: Symbolized by a rhinoceros, colors green and orange with white stripes.
- Tartuca: Represented by a turtle, colors yellow and blue.
- Torre: Symbolized by an elephant with a tower, colors red, white, and blue.
- Valdimontone: Represented by a rearing ram, colors yellow and red.
The Contrada with the Most Palio di Siena Wins
Among the contrade of Siena, the Oca is the one with the most Palio victories (66/67). With a long series of successes spanning the centuries, the Oca is often considered one of the strongest and most competitive contrade.
The Rival Contrade in Siena
Rivalries among the contrade of Siena are ancient and deeply felt. These rivalries, dating back to historical conflicts, add extra passion and competition to the Palio. Some of the most notable rivalries include:
Aquila versus
Pantera.
Bruco versus
Giraffa.
Chiocciola versus
Tartuca.
Civetta versus
Leocorno.
Drago versus
Onda.
How Many Contrade Participate in the Palio di Siena?
Each edition of the Palio features ten contrade, selected through a lottery. Seven contrade that did not run in the previous year's Palio participate automatically, while the remaining three are chosen from the other ten through a draw.
The Contradaioli
The contradaioli, members of the contrade, actively participate in the social and cultural life of their community. The contrade organize events such as dinners, historical parades, and religious ceremonies, which reinforce the sense of belonging and solidarity among members. The traditions, passed down from generation to generation, help keep the roots of the contrade alive.
In conclusion, the contrade of Siena represent a unique cultural heritage that continues to thrive and inspire generations of contradaioli. With their centuries-old traditions, iconic symbols, and palpable rivalries, the contrade are a vital essence of the Tuscan city. Exploring the contrade of Siena means immersing oneself in a history rich in passion, pride, and belonging.
