There are days when visiting Siena means stepping into a story that has been unfolding for centuries. The days of the Palio dell’Assunta, scheduled for 16 August, are just like that: the streets take on a new appearance, flags bring colour to the buildings, drums echo through the narrow streets, and every corner of the city seems filled with anticipation. You do not need to be familiar with the Palio to be drawn into its atmosphere. Simply walk through the historic centre, listen to the voices coming from the Contrade and watch Siena as it prepares for its most important event. At this time of year, the city does not simply put on a show: it invites visitors to become part of its history.
The Palio, much more than a race
The Palio is known as the horse race held in Piazza del Campo, but for Siena it represents much more. It is a sense of belonging, memory, passion and identity. The Contrade are living communities, each connected to a particular part of the city, with their own colours, symbols, traditions and gathering places. In the days leading up to 16 August, the atmosphere builds with each passing event. The trial races in Piazza del Campo, the horses, dinners in the streets, songs and the rolling of drums come together to create a shared story filled with genuine emotion. The city comes alive from early morning and continues late into the night, suspended between ancient rituals and an enthusiasm that is renewed every year.
An adventure to experience in the heart of Siena
Staying at Hotel Chiusarelli during the Palio dell’Assunta means finding yourself at the heart of this adventure. The hotel has been part of Siena’s life for a very long time and, during the days of the Palio, its location becomes even more special. From its rooms and common areas, guests can set off on foot and reach Piazza del Campo, the Duomo and the city’s main monuments within just a few minutes. Above all, however, they immediately become immersed in the atmosphere of the Palio: as soon as they step outside the hotel, Siena is already all around them, with its flags, the voices of the Contrade and that unique energy that flows through the historic centre.
Experiencing these days at Hotel Chiusarelli is a little like finding yourself inside a novel. The city becomes a great stage and every guest, simply by walking through its streets, becomes part of it. No longer merely a spectator, but the protagonist of an experience they are unlikely ever to forget.
Our staff, an invaluable guide
The Palio is also made up of small details that can easily escape those visiting Siena for the first time. This is why the staff at Hotel Chiusarelli are ready to assist guests with information, directions and interesting insights to help them experience the city at its best. Knowing when to reach Piazza del Campo, how to move around the historic centre, which moments to look out for and how to approach Sienese traditions with respect makes it possible to gain a deeper understanding of what is happening. It is not simply about watching the race on 16 August, but about savouring the anticipation and discovering, day by day, the most authentic soul of Siena.
The Palio begins as soon as you step outside the hotel
The Palio dell’Assunta is one of those events that can never be fully described: you have to be there. You have to hear the drums approaching, see the flags moving above the streets and feel the tension-filled silence that comes before the race.
At Hotel Chiusarelli, this experience begins the moment you step through the door. Siena awaits you, vibrant and passionate, ready to take you on a journey into a tradition unlike any other in the world.
