Siena is a city that does not need presentations, being one of the most visited places in the world in every season of the yearg. Certainly, however, the fine weather encourages the desire of tourists to go for walks during the day for the beautiful old downtown and,in the evening, for the many typical restaurants where you can enjoy the tasty local dishes.
In the summer Siena finds as ace in the hole its most important event, the Palio Horse Race, but for Mid-August in Siena there are other interesting similar initiatives not to miss...

Palio Horse Race of Siena

Second and final round of 2009 with the most famous Palio Horse Race: after the date of July 2, striking back the competition with the colorful Contradas ready to challenge with horses afor the historical victory. The date is always the same, that of August 16, the day of Our Lady of the Assumption, and of course the location is always that of the Piazza del Campo crowded more than ever for an event that is just a symbol of an entire city.

Joust of the Saracen in Sarteano (SI)

But the events that remember thousand of old traditions are not only in Siena, the province is rich in beautiful historical commemorations, such as the famous Saracen Joust, which takes place in that of Sarteano each August 15. This is a spectacular equestrian show that reminds the old knight's tournament, and in this case, the struggle against the arab enemy knights (saracen to be honest).
A tasty feast in costume, the presentation of the drape and the trial are the traditional steps that precede the ancient challenge of the five quarters ..

Palio Horse Race of Piancastagnaio (SI)

Are instead four the contradas fighting to win the Palio Horse Race of Piancastagnaio, another evocation of ancient old tradition that takes place on August 17 and 18.
The first day the opening is celebrated with the beautiful historical parade , but not to be missed is the following day, when it's time to see the "career" (as in slang is called the race) horse-mounted hair for a thrilling festival that has nothing to envy to other similar initiatives.

Palazzo Chigi Saracini back to reveal its treasures

Who will spend some days in summer in Siena can also take advantage to visit Saracini Palazzo Chigi Saracini, seat of the historic Accademia Musicale Chigiana. You have time until October 31 (every Friday and Saturday) to visit the magnificent building dating from the thirteenth century and which houses centuries of precious art treasures.

At the end, between parades in costume and historical events, not forgetting the importance and value of art, we recommend making an effort spending Mid-August in Siena hotels, b&b, and of course farmhouses and countryhouses, well landed in the typical and popular countryside of Siena and province.