Siena is home to the famous horse race called the Palio which is held twice a year. This city’s prominence used to rival Florence and Pisa until the medieval era when the black plague stuck. Once it took hold, the population of the city and its once strong political and economic position took a dive. Although a catastrophe at the time, this twist of fate has preserved the quaint city.   The layout of the city remains much how it was before fancy cars took over the streets. The city plaza has a circumference of 1092.52 feet or (333 meters) with red brick with travertine stone running through it. The design is very unique in that it isn’t a square shape, but described as having a shell-like appearance. The plaza is cobblestone that is encircled with shops and restaurants. When the horse race is held, dirt is hauled in to form the track encircling the plaza on which riders from each neighborhood compete bare back. The plaza is filled with spectators as well as those that fill bleachers encircling the track and hotel and residential balconies lucky enough to have a view. The neighborhood that wins the race holds a position of honor until the next race and have the honor of flying their flag over the city.

• Duomo di Siena