In the medieval city of Siena, Italy, the Palio horse race is a centuries-old tradition of colorful costumes, enthusiastic fans, and pageantry. Locally-bred Barbary horses are ridden by jockeys who use their whips not only to urge their horses on, but also to defend themselves against rival riders. Despite its short ¾-mile course, the cobblestone Piazza del Campo is a challenging terrain, with many horses finishing riderless.
Grandad of Races
The Palio di Siena is a dazzling display of color, grandeur, and tradition set against the historic backdrop of Piazza del Campo.
