Siena Contrade: Born Enemies?

Apr
2013
29

posted by on History & Culture

 
Contrade of Siena - Leocorno

The Leocorn contrada of Siena

What you may not know about the beautiful Tuscan city of Siena, is that it is actually made up of many small districts, all with their own church and museum, an emblem, and a host of traditions. These neighbourhoods are called the contrade of Siena. Although they have no political function, the people who belong to these districts are not only proud to be a part of them; they also play active roles in the community. But of course, these contrade don’t all get along. Fierce rivalries exist between some of them, and the tension often culminates in Siena’s famous horse race: The Palio.

The Siena contrade first appeared in the 13th century. At first there were 59 different districts, but now there are 17, all with their own territory. The contrade and their symbols are: Eagle, Caterpillar, Snail, Owl, Dragon, Giraffe, Porcupine, Unicorn, She-Wolf, Goose, Tortoise, Wave, Tower, Ram, Forest, Panther and Shell, and they can all be found in the historical centre of the city.

There are several rivalries between the contrade and due to the fact that the majority of them began such a long time ago, their origins are mostly unknown. However, it is thought that most of the rivalries were formed over boundary issues, or events that occurred during a Palio. Official rivalries include the Eagle and the Panther, the Snail and the Tortoise (which is said to be the most ancient and deep rooted), the Porcupine and the She-Wolf, the Shell and the Ram, and more recently, the Owl and the Unicorn; a rivalry which began in the 1950s due to boundary disputes.

The members of the rival contrade have, quite literally, been known to come to come to blows at the most important contrade event of the year, which is, of course, the Palio. This famous, bareback horse race takes place twice a year, on 2nd July and 16th August, and is the only surviving official contest between contrade. Therefore it’s easy to see why this race is so important to the rivalling districts, all of which have a legendary feast the night before the great event, where stories are told and much food and wine is consumed! However, it’s not all about animosity; some contrade, such as the Dragon, Forest, Caterpillar and Giraffe, have no enemies. Well, the Giraffe were enemies with the Caterpillar, but have now officially made friends…

So, why not take part in a tour in Siena, Italy. We have several Siena tours from Florence, which take you in and around this historical city, so you can see the contrade for yourself! Or, if you fancy something really exciting, then why not visit Siena during the Palio? Contact us to actually take part in the traditional celebration the night before the Palio; an event that is usually reserved for the members of the contrada itself! What better way is there to find out some secret information about friendships and rivals?!

Pic credits: Pedro Prats

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