We love Siena-the vibe of the main square especially. Wanting to go back end of June and just chill for a few days. The Palio is the 2nd and we don't really want to be there for the crowds and craziness. When do they start putting gravel down for the race? Will it be nuts last week of June?
Posted by
Calgary
2297 posts
We were there about 4 days before the Palio and it was still very quiet. A wonderful change after the crowds of Florence! They had started already to prepare the main square, the bleachers were out (pushed to the side) and the sand (not gravel!) was being prepared as well. It didn't impact our exploration at all other than giving us a taste of what will be coming.
Posted by
OP
yarmouth
2 posts
Oh that's great! Thanks!!
I'm assuming you could still sit in the middle of the square then?
Posted by
Calgary
2297 posts
Here is a photo shot a few days before the Palio. You can see the yellow sand on the outer ring for the actual horse race. You can also see some wooden bleachers still tucked away between the awnings of the restaurant. And there are people mingling in the middle of the square - not that many because it was hot that day and people preferred to stay in the shade. http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b8d924b3127ccec4dfb3afa2f100000040O00AbtG7do2YuWIPbz4E/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/