Palio di Siena and Contrade small group tour

Why is Piazza del Campo the heart of Siena? What is the meaning of the word "Campo"? Which event is organized here since the early Middle Ages and to whom is it dedicated? During this tour, you will have the opportunity to discover everything about Siena's history, culture and traditions.The visit begins from the city's main square Piazza del Campo. Shaped like a seashell, it is considered the most beautiful medieval square in Europe and has been chosen as a set of famous international films.Here you will start discovering the districts into which the city is divided. Every Sienese becomes a real member of one of the 17 Contrade after a very special baptism. Each district is managed by a prior who administers it together with the other Contrada members.The Contrada year revolves around the Palio, a very special event that everyone in Siena can't wait to celebrate. The guide will show you the Church of Santa Maria in Provenzano, one of the protagonists of the Palio but still unknown to most tourists. You will find out why the Sienese consider this church so special.You will also explore a Contrada with your guide, who will focus on its fountain, oratory, stable and museum. Each district has its own unique museum where the prizes won during the centuries are on display: beautiful banners made of silk (called "palio") depicted by important local and international artists. Visiting a Contrada Museum is the best way to understand the real essence of Siena!