The contrada dell’oca, the district of the goose, won the Palio, Siena’s famous horse race, in July 2011. When we stayed in that district in October of the same year, they were still celebrating their victory. Flags adorned the narrow streets and song and chanting could be heard late at night.
I have very fond memories of Siena and would happily return there in a flash, especially in winter when the light is long and low over Il campo and the tourists buses have disappeared, when gentle snow drifts down medieval lanes and the Sienese continue their evening passeggiatta, the hems of long woollen coats sweeping the ancient pathways.
ALMOST ITALIAN 
I visited Siena once, as a student to see the art, though not during the Palio. It is a lovely city. The Passeggiatta is such a warm Italian tradition. I wonder if a similar tradition happens in other European countries, do you know?
LikeLiked by 1 person
I was also a student there for one month. I don’t think other European cities have the same tradition as the passeggiata.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wonderful! Went there as a 16 year old and would love to go back!
LikeLike
Yes, Go back there Leya- in the off season is best.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I loved Siena and hearing about all of the different contradas, and seeing where the horses race. Plus, I had the best gnocchi there!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Its a fabulous city Mimi, such history and atmosphere.
LikeLike
Hey Francesca .. I’ve never been there. Lovely images Miss
LikeLiked by 1 person
Julie, just go there!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Right .. On the list! 😃
LikeLike
Food forms part of my fondest Siennese memories, wonderful delis piled high with dried porcini and fabulous pasticceria selling the eponymous cake. All of Europe is beautiful when the crowds have left….
LikeLiked by 1 person
Well I just love this post. We spent a lovely couple of days in Siena with my brother after we hadn’t seen him for 18 months. One of my favourite photos is Anthony & Sean talking to each other as they walk down one of the steep streets heading down towards the Piazza Del Campo. Fond memories indeed.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Dear Fiona, It is such a wonderful place and so good that you and your brother had some great experiences too.
LikeLike
Gosh I love Siena…its been a while. I could return in a heartbeat as well. Those old medieval streets hemmed with towering old buildings and contrade flags is stunning. And yes, I love the vision of lightly falling snow….lovely!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I yearn for Siena after studying there in the nineties.Magari……..
LikeLiked by 1 person
If you want a companion for your return, give me a call. I, too, loved Siena and have always wished I could return.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Let’s Go. If only ……
LikeLike