““Siena From Assisi we took the bus to Siena, another walled medieval city. It is built on 3 hills and divided into 17 districts. Each district, known as a contrada, is represented by an animal, like a goose, eagle, or elephant. One district even has a dragon as its symbol! Each year 10 districts are chosen to compete in the Corsa del Palio (Parade of the Banner). It is held twice a year on July 2 and August 16. First there’s a procession with flag bearers, musicians, horses, and riders. Everyone dresses up in medieval costumes. The main event is a bareback horse race around the Piazza del Campo, a slanting, fan-shaped plaza. More than 40,000 spectators come to watch.””
