One of Tuscany's pre-eminent cultural events is due to take place on 16th August 2008 in the form of the Palio horserace.
This bareback riding event has been taking place since the 17th century, with the locals relishing in the rivalry and public sniping that goes on throughout the year in the run up to the race.
Taking place in Siena's Piazza del Campo, riders are required to make three circuits of the main square.
It can be over in a matter of minutes, but the build up promises to be the likes of which
backpacking visitors will not have seen on any of their travels.
The rivalry of the event derives from the formerly disparate Siena districts that were governed as separate entities in the past.
However, the Palio horserace is actually said to be a celebration of the apparition of the Virgin Mary during the 18th century.
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