Impressions of Siena, Italy

May 1996

All rights reserved. Copyright by Sandra Marcella Lucia Liebscher 1996

The most interesting and exciting thing of Siena is the Palio (horse race) which made Siena famous all over the world. But tourists only see the spectacular side of a cultural life which is lively through the whole year. This cultural life finds its expression in the Contrada . There are 17 of them dividing the territory of Siena inside the city walls. The Contrade have their own administration and organise nearly every aspect of the life of a senese if he or she wants to take part. Every Contrada has her own color and symbol which one finds almost everywhere once paying attention to it.

Every Contrada marks her territory with her own symbol.
From left to right:
Tartuca (Tortoise)
Onda (Wave)
Nicchio (Shell)

On special days the territory is also marked by flags. Here for example, is the border between the territories of Onda (Wave) and Aquila (Eagle).

Symbols of a Contrada can be found on every conceivable item. On a pot: The Selva (Forest).

On a car. Only insiders may recognise this one: Tartuca (Tortoise).

Not obvious at the first glance. On a scooter: Istrice (Porcupine).

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