In pictures: Palio horse race returns to Siena

Updated / Sunday, 3 Jul 2022 14:05
Siena's famous square saw the return of the Palio
Siena's famous square saw the return of the Palio

The famous Palio horse race has returned to the Italian city of Siena after a two-year Covid-enforced absence.

Riders represent their local district in the Tuscan city
Riders represent their local district in the Tuscan city
The historical tradition dates back to the 1630s
The historical tradition dates back to the 1630s
Races take place twice a year, 2 July and 16 August
Races take place twice a year, 2 July and 16 August
It consists of three laps around the square at breakneck speed
It consists of three laps around the square at breakneck speed
Medics treat an injured rider
Medics treat an injured rider
To the victor go the spoils, this time Giovanni Atzeni
To the victor go the spoils, this time Giovanni Atzeni
Atzeni and his horse Zio Frac receive a blessing at the Piazza del Campo square
Atzeni and his horse Zio Frac receive a blessing at the Piazza del Campo square
The race is a source of local pride and a huge draw for tourists
The race is a source of local pride and a huge draw for tourists
Speaker of the US House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi was among the spectators
Speaker of the US House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi was among the spectators

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