Siena by Peter

Peter Dunne says...

Peter Dunne says...

Italy, a fanatastic country to get yourself lost in for months on end. Such an expanse of variety from beaches to hillsides to mountains and glorious cities. Wine, cheese and some incredible meals to be had and what ices the cake (in my books) is the history. 

No country can compare to Italy and its intriguing diversity!

Talk to me Now!

October 2009

Siena is just amazing and I can’t believe I haven’t visited here before, very silly considering this is probably about my 20th visit to Italy. I have longed to come here since watching the famous horse race, the Palios, on TV as a school kid. Learning today about the 17 contrades or city neighbourhoods that vie to run the Palios each time, twice a year, I was transported back to a Machiavellian world of passions and rivalry culminating in 3 minutes of high drama. There is no finer setting than the Piazza Del Campo and dinning there tonight just whetted my appetite for the time I come back to see the Palios for real.

The Palio held on July 2 is named Palio di Provenzano, in honour of Madonna di Provenzano, who has a church in Siena. The Palio held on August 16 is named Palio dell'Assunta, in honour of Assumption of Mary.

Send this page to a friend

Explore More

Want to know more?