The Untold Story Of The 2018 Extraordinary Palio In Siena Italy

Italy is known for its rich culture, breathtaking cities, and mouthwatering cuisine. However, hidden among the these iconic aspects of the country lies a captivating event that has been the heart and soul of Siena for centuries - The Palio di Siena. In 2018, this extraordinary event took place, leaving an everlasting mark on the city and its inhabitants.

The Palio, held on July 2nd and August 16th every year, is not just an ordinary horse race. It is a grand spectacle that represents the history, tradition, and rivalry of the seventeen contrade, or districts, of Siena. Each participating contrada selects a jockey who will represent them in the race, and weeks of preparation and anticipation follow.

The 2018 Palio was no exception. The atmosphere in the city was electrifying as the contrade decorated their districts with flags and banners, creating a vibrant ambiance. The main square, Piazza del Campo, was transformed into a majestic racetrack where thousands of excited spectators gathered to witness the legendary race unfold.

Unbridled Spirit: The Untold Story of the 2018 Extraordinary Palio in Siena, Italy

by Thomas W. Paradis (Kindle Edition)

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	10460 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	329 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

The horses, meticulously chosen for their agility and speed, were adorned with colorful regalia representing their respective contrade. The jockeys, fearless and skilled, wore their contrada colors proudly as they prepared for the adrenaline-pumping race that would determine the victor.

The race consists of three laps around the Piazza, packed with sharp turns that require both skill and audacity. The jockeys fiercely compete for victory, leaving no room for hesitation or error. Every contrada dreams of achieving Palio glory, and the 2018 race was no different.

As the starting gunshot echoed through the square, the horses galloped forward, stirring up a cloud of dust and captivating the crowd. The intensity of the race was palpable as the jockeys navigated their horses through the bustling chaos, their contrade cheering them on with passionate fervor.

During the first lap, several horses lost control, causing excitement and anxious anticipation as the race continued. The audience was on the edge of their seats, their eyes fixed on the horses and jockeys maneuvering through the narrow streets of Siena with unwavering determination.

The second lap brought both relief and disappointment for different contrade. Some jockeys managed to maintain their positions, while others struggled to keep up. The roar of the crowd grew louder, each supporter hoping to witness their contrada seize the coveted victory.

As the race entered its final lap, only a few horses remained in the lead. The tension was palpable as the jockeys increased their speed, pushing their horses to the limit. The cheers from the crowd reached a crescendo, filling the air with an electrifying energy.

Ultimately, it was the Contrada of Aquila that emerged victorious in the 2018 Palio. Their jockey, a local hero named Marco Spinello, had masterfully guided his horse to triumph, igniting jubilation among the Aquila supporters. The celebration that followed was an explosion of joy and pride, with the streets of Siena erupting into a massive party.

The 2018 Palio inspired awe and admiration from all who witnessed it. The untold stories of perseverance, passion, and determination from the jockeys, who dedicate their lives to this prestigious event, deserve recognition. Not only do they race for their contrade's honor, but they also embody the spirit of Siena and its centuries-old tradition.

While the Palio is a fierce competition, it also unites the city of Siena, bringing together locals and tourists alike. The event serves as a reminder of the importance of heritage and community, as Sienese citizens cherish their contrada affiliations and honor the past.

As the sun set on Siena after the 2018 Palio, the city basked in the glory of a race that had captivated the world. The memories created that day will forever be etched in the hearts of the participants and spectators, reminding them of the magic that can only be found in Siena during this extraordinary event.

Unbridled Spirit: The Untold Story of the 2018 Extraordinary Palio in Siena, Italy

by Thomas W. Paradis (Kindle Edition)

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	10460 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	329 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

Once in a great while the people of Siena, Italy organize a special horse race beyond the normal Palio events of July and August. Known as a Straordinario, or Extraordinary Palio, the city’s seventeen timeless contrade (neighborhoods) reserve such events to honor only the most significant occasions, not the least being the Apollo 11 lunar landing and the turn of the millennium. Eighteen years would pass before the next Straordinario featured herein, which arguably pulled the community quite outside its comfort zone. Unbridled Spirit invites readers to dive into the locally contentious effort in October, 2018 to commemorate the hundredth anniversary of the end of World War I. Upon Siena’s whirlwind decision to hold the event, Thomas Paradis visited off-season to explore the history and meanings of the war and to experience a rare October Palio that came close to not happening at all.

Whether you are a newcomer or more familiar with Siena’s Palio, Unbridled Spirit offers intriguing local stories and perspectives that help us appreciate what the Palio means to Siena, and how its people rallied to encourage a unique centenary reflection on La Grande Guerra—the Great War. Includes illustrations, glossary, bibliography, and notes.