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The beautiful town of Colle Val d ‘Elsa situated between Florence and Siena is completing the final preparations to take you back in time this upcoming weekend.

On Saturday and Sunday July 2 and 3, 2011 the medieval village will host “The Renaissance of Colle – History, Festivals and Battles between 1479 and 1592”.

During the two days, starting at 5pm up until midnight all streets, squares, shops and public places in Colle Val d ‘Elsa will become the setting for the celebration of the Renaissance, one of the city’s most important historical periods.

It will be an unique opportunity to see Colle Val d’ Elsa come alive with characters in Renaissance dress, skillful jugglers, fabulous musicians, street performers and actors entertaining and engaging the public from later afternoon until midnight.

Read more about the Renaissance Festival in Colle>>

If you are in Siena over the next few months, take advantage of the special opening to the public of the Palazzo Chigi Saracini, a beautiful medieval palace in the center of Siena normally closed to the public as it houses the Chigiana Musical Academy.

In an attempt to share its extraordinary art collection and offer a glimpse of the internal medieval architecture of the palace, the Academy has set aside a few days a week to open the palace to visitors during certain periods of the year.

Continue reading about the Palazzo Chigi Saracini »

photo by fairlybuoyant

The Civetta or Owl contrada won the race after a 30 year dry spell. No other contrada had waited so long for such a sweet victory. One could say that nature just took its course: running after sunset helped the nocturnal creature as it entered the race at its prime time for activity.
The contrada, known as the “prior” district for having hosted the priors of the districts during a time of conflict with city hall in 1887, was also able to secure victory thanks to the ability of its jockey in taking the spot assigned to the Unicorn, its great rival, and then in masterly handling the experienced horse it had received through lottery.

 
Read more about The day after the Palio

Siena's Campo: the Palio race is run around its perimeter

Today, Thursday August 13 the only flower which grows on tufo, or tuff rock began to bloom: the Palio di Siena.

This is an evergreen plant which blooms only twice a year, once being at the height of summer on the 16th of August for the feast of the Virgin Mary’s Assumption. The flower emanates an intoxicating, giddy perfume for local residents and visitors alike.

The Palio is not a sporting event, and it isn’t just a horse race. The event is a tournament from the past that continues to still evoke great passion in the people of Siena. You have to see it to believe it.