Siena

June 28

We traveled from Florence to Rome, and on the way, visited the Tuscan village of Siena. Siena is perched atop a hill, and so the entire city is made up of winding, hilly streets. At the center of the town is a large piazza, or plaza that is the location of the Palio, an intense horse race that takes place every July 2 and August 7. The town is divided into neighborhoods, each with its own mascot such as panther, snail, etc. Each neighborhood is represented in the race, and they are very enthusiastic about their particular horse winning. We saw the preparations the town is making for the race, including applying a thick layer of dirt to form a track surrounding the piazza.