臺北市新住民專區網站英文版

The Palio di Siena is a traditional horse race held every year on July 2 and August 16 in Siena, Italy. The race takes place in Piazza del Campo, the city’s main square. Among Siena’s 17 districts, 10 are selected to compete in each race. Each district is represented by one rider, and no saddles are used, making it a demanding test of skill and balance. Riders wear brightly colored costumes that represent their district. The July 2 race is called the Palio di Provenzano, held in honor of the Madonna of Provenzano. The August 16 race is known as the Palio dell’Assunta, commemorating the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.

There’s no traditional racetrack — instead, the horses race three laps around the edge of the square. Riders are even allowed to block or bump each other, which leads to intense action and sometimes riders flying off their horses. But here’s the twist: a horse can win the race even without its rider — as long as it finishes first!