The Palio is Italy’s heart-thumping horserace held in the Piazza del Campo in the center of Siena, just 35 minutes from Villa Ardore. Ten riders compete as champion for their contrada, or neighborhood, pridefully sporting racing silks in the colors of their home tribe. With roots dating back to medieval times, the festival atmosphere is palpable throughout the city. There are plenty of costumed party-goers adding to the mood and colorful flags draping from window ledges that define each neighborhood as its own contrada. Thousands of locals and visitors alike cram the piazza for the 1000-meter, 2-minute challenge to catch a glimpse of who secures the victory flag . Visiting during Palio provides a unique insight into the rich heritage of Tuscany.
