Siena’s contrade are often introduced as the teams that compete in the Palio. That description is incomplete. They are historic districts with identities, institutions, relationships and community life that extend throughout the year.
This visitor guide explains the 17 contrade without reducing them to mascots or tourist decoration.
Quick answer
Siena has 17 contrade. Each has its own name, emblem, colours and territory. Ten participate in each Palio race under official rotation and drawing rules, but contrada identity is part of everyday community life, not only race day.
What is a contrada?
A contrada is a historic Siena district and community. Visitors see flags, emblems and fountains, but the visible symbols represent deeper social ties and traditions.
Membership and belonging are not equivalent to choosing a sports team during a visit. Approach conversations with curiosity rather than declaring a temporary allegiance for entertainment.
The 17 contrade
The official municipal Palio site lists Aquila, Bruco, Chiocciola, Civetta, Drago, Giraffa, Istrice, Leocorno, Lupa, Nicchio, Oca, Onda, Pantera, Selva, Tartuca, Torre and Valdimontone.
Each has distinct colours, an emblem, a motto and a defined area. A city map can help identify boundaries, but the urban experience is more fluid than a simple tourist zoning diagram.
How the contrade relate to the Palio
Ten of the 17 contrade run in each Palio. Seven qualify through the rotation rules and three are selected by draw, as explained in the official municipal guide. The races are held on 2 July and 16 August.
The Palio unfolds over several days and involves ceremonies, trials and community events. Do not assume race day alone explains its significance.
What visitors can notice
Look for animal or symbolic emblems, colored flags, neighbourhood fountains and plaques. Contrada museums and oratories may have limited access or open for specific occasions rather than operating like conventional daily attractions.
Street decoration increases around the Palio, but signs of identity remain visible throughout the year.
How to explore respectfully
Stay on public routes unless a space is clearly open. Ask before photographing private ceremonies or people in sensitive moments. Keep noise down around community buildings and places of worship.
If invited into a contrada space, follow local guidance. Avoid treating rivalries as a joke or encouraging confrontation.
A simple contrade walk
Begin at Piazza del Campo, move toward Via di Città and the cathedral, then wander through streets south of the Campo toward Piazza del Mercato. Continue only as far as your time and energy allow.
The point is not to collect all 17 names. Choose a small area and pay attention to changes in symbols, street character and gathering spaces.
Do you need a guided tour?
A knowledgeable local guide can explain historical context and modern community life more responsibly than a self-guided list of mascots. Check that the tour explicitly covers the contrade and Palio culture rather than only architectural highlights.
Frequently asked questions
How many contrade are there in Siena?
There are 17 official contrade.
Do all 17 race in the Palio?
No. Ten contrade participate in each race under rotation and drawing rules.
Can tourists enter contrada museums?
Access varies. Some spaces have limited openings or require arrangements, so check locally and respect private community areas.
Final thoughts
Understanding the contrade changes the way you see Siena. The flags and fountains stop being decoration and become signs of a living civic structure. Explore with attention and humility.
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