Sunday Times,
28 March 2004
Mediterranean classics: it's the clash of the holiday
titans
Round 4: CULTURAL CALENDAR
 Tuscany: there are times and places when you know you’re at the
centre of the world. Siena during the Palio is one of them. Ostensibly
a bareback horse race around the city’s main square, the event
has become much more — a carnival that sweeps up everyone and everything
in town.
Staged twice each summer, on July 2 and August 16, the race is contested
by 10 costumed contrade, each representing a city district. It is exciting,
exhilarating and over in 90 seconds. Buy a flag, though, and become a
participant rather than a mere spectator; the revelry lasts all night...
... Sample package: Bellini Travel (+44 (0)20 7602 7602, www.bellinitravel.com)
has three-night trips to the Palio
in Siena for £1,880, B&B,
staying in a five-star hotel. The price includes dinner on the night
before the race, a balcony seat on the big day, dinner after the race
and private transfers.
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