How do you get tickets for the Palio?
Palio: PAH-lyoh. Stress on the first syllable. The name comes from the banner (palio) awarded to the winner.
When planning to attend Siena's Palio or any other palii (races) in Italy. Tickets for the Palio's stands are extremely scarce and require advance planning.
Come si prendono means 'how does one get'. I biglietti is 'the tickets'. Per il Palio is 'for the Palio'. An important logistical question for one of Italy's most famous events.
Qual è la differenza tra il centro e le tribune?
What is the difference between the centre and the stands?
Il centro (the track) is free but crowded; le tribune are ticketed stands.
I biglietti per la piazza si comprano in anticipo?
Are tickets for the piazza bought in advance?
Standing in the piazza is free — but ticketed stands must be booked months ahead.
Con quale Contrada mi conviene stare?
Which Contrada is it best to stay with?
Each Contrada has its own section — locals can advise based on your position.
The Palio di Siena is run twice a year (July 2 and August 16) and is not a tourist show — it is the most intense expression of Sienese civic identity. The ten competing Contrade (neighbourhoods) have 700-year rivalries. Jockeys ride bareback and the race lasts 90 seconds. Grown Sienese men weep when their Contrada wins.