Siena & Il Palio

Sorry, I've fallen behind on the blogging :) Been quite worn out and don't have the patience for computer stuff after a long day of painting in the sun. You'd think by now I'd be black, but alas I am still my pasty ol' self :)

Anyway, We had a terrific time in Siena. It was quite an experience!! They have this horse race 2 times a year called il Palio. We just happened to be in Italy when it was going on so Jason offered to take those of us who wanted to go.

This race is a huge spectacle. People from all over the world come to see this race. Basically all 10 Contrades or city wards are represented by a horse and rider. There is a huge parade preceding the race where everyone dresses in costume and throws their contrades' flag. It is a full day experience.

It took forever to get into the piazza. We had to run to each gate and try to get in before they closed it. Finally we got to one gate that was still letting people in. We had to wait about a half an hour in a little alley way with elbow to elbow people, who did not smell very good :( For those who are claustrophobic, I would not recommend this event. Plus once you get into the Piazza you can't get back out, so no potty breaks for 3-4 hours. It was 100+ degrees and none of us wanted to drink any water, cuz we wouldn't be able to pee. And they call this fun!!

So we waited around int the Piazza for the race to start, in the sweltering heat with no water. It was supposed to start at 7, but you know those Italians, they can never start on time. So at 8:30 the race finally started. Which by the way did I tell you that the race is only 3 laps!! So we waited around in a stinky, sweaty mob of people for 4 hours for a 20 second race. No kidding it took about 20 secs!!

After the race, the wining Contrades people come stampeding through the crowd toward the winner and then rip all of his clothes off. Well that part was interesting :) Except for the almost getting stampeded by insane Italians.

All I have to say is I'm glad I went, but I can't say that I'd do it again :)

Arrivederci