Blog: Discover Italy

The Results are in Oca has won the July 3rd, 2025 Il Palio di Siena. Jockey Giovanni Atzeni who goes by the professional name Tittia wins for the 11th time. This is the 68th win for the Oca (Goose) Contrada. The Palio is by far the world’s wildest horse race and Atzeni has become the jockey who has been able to dominate this 392 year event. First held in 1656, The Palio di Siena, otherwise known as "Il Palio", is one of the oldest and most famous horse races in the world. Held twice a …

In the Middle Ages, Siena was partitioned into districts called contrade. Each Contrada formed a military company which was responsible for defending Siena. Originally there were 59 contrade, but today only 17 remain. Today the only battle these contrade fight is the Palio – a competitive bareback horse race that takes place on July 2 and August 16 every year in the city's main piazza - Piazza del Campo. Every person who was born or lives in Siena belongs to a Contrada. Each Contrada has …

(Photo Credit: Wikipedia Commons) Siena is by far one of my favorite Italian towns, a captivating medieval city in Tuscany, renowned for its well-preserved Gothic architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and the thrilling Palio. Its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern excitement, making it a must-visit destination. If you happen to be traveling to Italy during the summer, do try and plan your trip around the Palio di Sie …