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Introduction

The Contrada del Drago is one of Siena’s 17 historic contrade. It is located in the Terzo di Camollia, in the north‑western part of the city . The Drago’s territory stretches from the area of the Medici Fortress and the municipal stadium to the Basilica of San Domenico, including parts of Via dei Montanini and the surroundings of Poggio Malavolti . Nearby lies Hotel Minerva (Via Garibaldi 72), an ideal starting point for exploring this contrada: it takes only a few minutes on foot to reach Piazza Giacomo Matteotti, the Drago’s main square, where you will find the baptismal fountain and the museum/headquarters .

In this guide we will get to know the Contrada del Drago up close—its centuries‑long history, traditions and places to visit (museum and oratory) through a question‑and‑answer format . We will also learn about the Drago’s triumphs in the Palio di Siena, examining its many victories (39 Palios won since 1650) and providing useful summary tables . Finally, we suggest a walking itinerary from Hotel Minerva through the streets of Siena to the heart of the contrada, indicating points of interest along the way . Let us dive into the soul of one of Siena’s oldest and most fascinating contrade.

Location and symbols

Where is the Contrada del Drago and what are its symbols?

The Drago occupies the area of the Terzo di Camollia, one of the three ancient districts into which Siena’s historic centre is divided . Its territory includes key streets and squares: Piazza Matteotti (the nerve centre where the fountain and contrada society are located), Via di Camporegio (home to the Società Camporegio) and part of Via dei Montanini, one of Siena’s main streets . The contrada is bordered by the neighbouring contrade of Onda, Lupa, Istrice and Aquila, with which it shares boundaries in the maze of city streets . Thanks to its location, the Drago is easily reachable on foot from the centre—only about a ten‑minute walk north from Piazza del Campo .

Emblem and colours

The heraldic emblem of the Drago depicts, as the name suggests, a golden winged dragon, crowned in medieval style, with its wings spread . In its right claw the dragon holds a blue pennant bearing the letter “U”, topped by a royal crown—an historic reference to King Umberto I of Savoy . The contrada’s official colours are old rose and green, crossed with yellow . These colours appear on flags, costumes and on the silk neckerchief (“gioiello”) worn proudly by contradaioli. The motto of the Contrada del Drago is “Il cor che m’arde divien fiamma in bocca”, a poetic expression in Sienese dialect meaning “The heart that burns within me becomes a flame in the mouth,” alluding to the dragon’s inner fire that manifests outwardly .

Patron saint, alliances and rivalries

Every contrada traditionally has a patron saint, alliances and—sometimes—rivalries. The Drago venerates Saint Catherine of Siena, the great 14th‑century mystic, as its patron and celebrates its titular feast on the last Sunday of May . The choice is significant: although the saint’s birthplace lies in the territory of the Contrada dell’Oca, the Drago is particularly devoted to her because its church (the contrada oratory) is dedicated to Santa Caterina. Uniquely, the Drago has no official rival; it is the only Siena contrada never to have had an official enemy . Despite occasional past tensions with Lupa, Selva or Bruco, none were formalised. In contrast, the Drago maintains a special alliance with the Contrada dell’Aquila, an alliance that has endured over time and is evident during joint celebrations and mutual support at the Palio .

Summary of key facts

ItemDetails
District (Terzo)Camollia
EmblemA winged golden dragon with a pennant bearing the letter “U”
ColoursOld rose and green crossed with yellow
Motto“Il cor che m’arde divien fiamma in bocca”
Patron SaintSaint Catherine of Siena (celebrated last Sunday of May)
Allied ContradaAquila
Rival ContradaNone (no official rivalry)
Traditional guildBankers (each contrada historically associated with a trade)
Palio victories39 victories (first in 1650, last in 2022)

The Contrada del Drago therefore combines the proud dragon symbolism with historical references (the “U” of Umberto I), unusual yet striking colours, and a strategic position within the city. Often called “Popolo di Camporegio,” it takes this nickname from the locality Poggio di Camporegio (the area around San Domenico and Via del Paradiso), which for centuries has been the heart of its territory . Visiting the Drago means venturing into a neighbourhood rich in history and tradition, easily recognisable by its vivid dragon symbols and colours .

History of the Contrada del Drago

Origins and key milestones

The Drago’s history has roots in late medieval and Renaissance Siena. As early as the 15th century there are traces of this contrada: historical research documents the existence of a local group named “Drago” in 1481, predating the formal establishment of contrade as participants in public events . On 1 March 1494 the Drago (along with Giraffa, Chiocciola and Onda) appeared with its own symbol at the Gioco delle Pugna, a public spectacle in Piazza del Campo . This is one of the earliest documented references to the contrada in an official city event, indicating that by the late 1400s the Drago already had a well‑recognised neighbourhood identity .

During the 16th and 17th centuries, the contrade gradually took on their current form. For a long time, until the mid‑1600s, members of the Drago gathered in private houses or workshops within the district . A turning point came in 1650: in the same year that the Drago would win its first Palio (see later), the contrada was granted the use of a room at the lay company of San Domenico in Camporegio as its official meeting place . This concession tied the Drago to the powerful religious complex of San Domenico and laid the groundwork for a long‑lasting collaboration. From 1679 the Company even agreed to contribute to the Palio expenses on condition that, in case of victory, the Drappellone (painted banner) be offered on the altar of San Domenico . This quasi‑religious patronage lasted about a century, until disagreements ended the arrangement after the Drago’s victory on 2 July 1738 . Only one banner from this period survives today—the drappellone of 16 August 1786—preserved in the Sala delle Vittorie .

A fundamental chapter opened in 1787 when Grand Duke Pietro Leopoldo donated to the contrada the church of Santa Caterina in Paradiso (along with part of the adjoining former convent) to serve as its oratory . Built around 1620 on an earlier 15th‑century church, this baroque church sits on an elevation known as Poggio Malavolti (Camporegio) . Acquiring the church marked the birth of the Contrada del Drago as a fully autonomous entity with its own place of worship, and the oratory has since been the spiritual centre of the contrada . Over time, the museum housing the Drago’s treasures (Palios, costumes, memorabilia) grew in the rooms below and adjoining the church . Today’s urban landscape around Poggio Malavolti has changed: the hill has been levelled several times, but the imposing stairways leading to the oratory still testify to the original slopes .

During the 19th and 20th centuries, the Contrada del Drago endured Napoleon’s suppressions and changing times but kept its spirit alive. It owns the oldest surviving costume among Siena’s contrade: a “Spanish‑style” outfit from 1839, preserved and occasionally displayed . In the 20th century the contrada adopted a modern organisation with statutes and elective bodies such as the Consiglio and the Seggio led by the Priore, and actively participated in civic life and Palio competitions . Although not among the most victorious contrade, the Drago has amassed an impressive 39 Palio wins and experienced epic moments, such as the Palio della Pace in 1945 . In recent decades the contrada has been noted for internal harmony and leadership stability: statistically, its officers (Priore and Capitano) have served the longest average terms of any Siena contrada, indicating cohesion and continuity .

Summary

In short, the history of the Contrada del Drago is that of an ancient city community that has managed to preserve itself and renew itself across the centuries: from Renaissance fights to recent Palio victories, from the donation of Santa Caterina’s church to the contemporary museum, the Drago intertwines myth, faith and popular passion . Every corner of the district tells part of this history—the Malavolti alleyways, the Camporegio piazzetta, the fountain inscription, flags fluttering during the Palio—painting a vivid portrait of this timeless contrada .

Traditions and festivities

Patronal feast and baptismal fountain

The life of the Contrada del Drago—like that of every contrada in Siena—is rich in centuries‑old traditions blending sacred and profane, social gatherings and solemn rituals . Key aspects include:

  • Titular Feast of Saint Catherine: Since Saint Catherine of Siena is the patron, each year on the last Sunday of May the Drago celebrates its titular feast . The weekend of celebrations includes religious ceremonies (solemn mass in the Oratory of Santa Caterina in Paradiso), processions through the district streets with contradaioli in historical dress, and convivial moments such as the victory dinner (if the Palio has been won that year) or communal dinners and toasts .
  • Contradaiolo baptism: During the titular feast the Battesimo contradaiolo takes place: newborns or children connected to the contrada by family or residence are symbolically “baptised” with water from the contrada’s fountain, receiving the Drago colours . In the Drago, the ceremony occurs at the baptismal fountain in Piazza Matteotti; the Priore recites the traditional formula and sprinkles the child’s forehead with fountain water while drums roll and flags wave . From that moment the child becomes a dragaiolo (Drago contradaiolo) for life .
  • The baptismal fountain: Each contrada has a fountain where the lay baptism is held, but the Drago’s fountain is particularly artistic. Inaugurated in 1977, it is the work of Sienese sculptor Vico Consorti, himself a Drago contradaiolo . The fountain consists of a column inscribed with a dedication (“The love of the contrada entrusts to future dragaioli the memory of the great Priors Mario Calamati and Alberto Rossi”) topped by a sculpture of a boy crouching and playing with marbles . Unusually, the dragon symbol does not appear directly; instead, one marble in the boy’s hand is painted in the Drago colours (red‑green, i.e., old rose and green), symbolising the contrada that excels in the game . This absence of the dragon and the presence of a child playing make the fountain unique, representing the spirit of play and the transmission of contrada heritage to the young. The fountain stands in a corner of Piazza Matteotti, opposite the contrada’s headquarters and museum . Each year during the titular feast, new contradaioli are baptised there .
  • Life of the contrada and the Società Camporegio: The beating heart of Drago social life is the Società di Camporegio, the contrada’s recreation club. Its premises at Via di Camporegio 1, under the oratory in the former convent, host contradaioli year‑round for dinners, assemblies, parties and initiatives . Typical traditions include regular Friday dinners (“cenenino”), propitiatory dinners before the Palio and the grand Victory Dinner when the Drago wins the Palio . Throughout the year there are events for all ages: tournaments (football, target shooting, board games) among contradaioli, dance evenings and lotteries, in addition to collective participation in Palio trials and the historic parade . The Drago, like other contrade, also cares about educating its young members: the Gruppo Piccoli Dragaioli involves children and teenagers in playful and cultural activities related to the contrada, teaching them from an early age the hymns, flag handling, drumbeat and community values . This generational transmission is crucial to keep the contrada spirit alive .
  • Other rituals: Among the Drago’s peculiar customs is the traditional floral homage on 29 April (the feast day of Saint Catherine) at the Basilica of San Domenico where her relics are kept . A costumed delegation brings flowers in devotion. Each contrada also has an official hymn: the Drago’s is titled “Il canto del drago” (with a refrain chanting “Drago, Drago!”) and is sung in chorus on solemn occasions, especially after a Palio victory . After winning the Palio, another heartfelt rite is the thanksgiving mass (Te Deum) celebrated in the Duomo with allied contrade, a tradition shared by all winning contrade .

Generally, the Contrada del Drago lives 365 days a year through a busy calendar of events—supporting its jockey during spring negotiations, blessing the horse and jockey the night before the Palio at the oratory, summer and autumn neighbourhood festivals, and more . Visitors in Siena outside Palio season can still glimpse this life: passing through Via di Camporegio they might hear voices and music from the society’s premises, see children practicing drums after school, or notice Drago flags displayed along streets during particular anniversaries . All of this shows how the Drago is not just a Palio participant but a true extended family that daily renews its centuries‑old traditions .

Museum of the Contrada del Drago

Location and sections

Every Siena contrada has its own museum; the Drago’s museum is particularly interesting for understanding the history and art connected to the contrada. It is located in spaces adjacent to and below the Oratory of Santa Caterina del Paradiso, the contrada church at Via del Paradiso 1 in the Poggio Malavolti area . The museum entrance coincides with the historic‑museum headquarters opposite the fountain in Piazza Matteotti and is often recognisable by the Drago emblem over the architrave .

The museum complex is divided into multiple sections, offering visitors a fascinating journey through the Drago’s memory :

  • The Oratory of Santa Caterina: Part of the museum route is the baroque oratory itself, small but richly decorated. Built around 1620 on a pre‑existing 15th‑century church, it has a single nave and houses important sacred artworks . Visitors can admire 17th‑century paintings by Sienese artists such as Francesco Rustici, Raffaello Vanni and Domenico Manetti; a precious polychrome terracotta bust of Saint Catherine by Lorenzo Marrina (1517); and a wooden crucifix from the 15th century . These masterpieces highlight the interweaving of faith and contrada tradition .
  • Hall of Victories (Sala delle Vittorie): Descending into the rooms under the church, one reaches the heart of the museum, the Sala delle Vittorie, where the Drappelloni—the painted banners won by the contrada in various Palio editions—are displayed . The Drago currently preserves 36 of its 39 Palio banners (some old ones were lost) . Entering this hall is suggestive: the walls are literally covered with colourful banners, each telling the story of a victory . Some notable pieces include:
  • The Palio of 2 July 1921, the first Palio painted by a woman, the Roman artist Maria De Maria .
  • The Palio of 20 August 1945, the famous Palio della Pace, painted by Dino Rofi. This banner has a unique history: Rofi only sketched it initially due to the short time to organise the post‑war Palio; after the race the original banner was torn to pieces during riots by the disappointed Bruco contradaioli. Rofi later repainted it entirely, adding a small caterpillar among the flames of the dragon as a mischievous reminder of the rivalry .
  • Banners from noted Sienese artists of the early 20th century such as Ezio Pollai (1930) and Plinio Tammaro (1933) .
  • Several banners from the late 20th century and contemporary times painted by renowned artists: Carlo Cerasoli, Frenchman Gérard Fromanger, Mimmo Paladino, Ruggero Savinio, Silvano “Nano” Campeggi (famous for his film posters), Rosalba Parrini and Emilio Giannelli. The most recent is the 2 July 2022 Palio painted by British artist Emma Sergeant, another prestigious female name associated with a Drago victory .
  • Gallery of Costumes and Flags: Another section, sometimes set up in separate rooms, is the Galleria delle Monture, which conserves historic costumes used by the Drago’s comparsa in the Palio’s historic parade . Among these is the already mentioned 1839 Spanish‑style costume—the oldest intact in Siena—and various 19th‑ and 20th‑century costumes richly hand‑decorated, showing the evolution of style and tailoring techniques . The gallery also displays historic flags, some decades old, showing different designs and variations of the dragon symbol . Seeing these yellowed or worn flags next to current ones illustrates how deeply the link with tradition is felt .
  • Other memorabilia: Completing the museum are various trophies and items linked to Drago life. For instance, the museum displays Masgalano trophies won by the contrada (awarded to the contrada with the best appearance in the historic parade; the Drago has won several, especially eight between 1951 and 2017) . Visitors will find period photographs, documents and books about the contrada, as well as gifts from other contrade or from civic institutions on special occasions . A corner is often dedicated to illustrious figures of the Drago—portraits of historic captains or jockeys who rode for the contrada .

Visiting the museum

Usually, contrada museums do not have daily opening hours like state museums; they can be visited by appointment or on special dates . The Contrada del Drago organises guided visits on request, especially for groups; by contacting the contrada in advance (for example via email to the secretary or through the official website) you can book a tour . In the summer, around the July and August Palios, the contrada museums often open to the public through events organised by the city or the Consorzio per la Tutela del Palio . It is well worth visiting the Drago museum: being surrounded by the winning banners, listening to contradaioli explain each victory and seeing the costumes and ceremonial items gives a unique insight into the contrada’s soul .

Palio victories

Overview of victories and chronological list

The Contrada del Drago has won 39 Palios in its history (up to the 2022 Palio) . The first victory dates back to 1650, and the latest to 2 July 2022 . With 39 wins “on the field,” the Drago ranks in the middle‑high tier of the Palio honours list: it is not among the topmost (the Oca boasts 66, Chiocciola 51, etc.), but it surpasses many other contrade and has enjoyed periods of great success .

The article provides a detailed chronological list of all 39 victories, including date, jockey (nickname) and horse . Here we summarise the first and last victories and offer a tally by period:

  • First victory: 6 November 1650 (extraordinary Palio) – jockey unknown .
  • Most recent victory: 2 July 2022 – jockey Giovanni Atzeni (Tittìa) on Zio Frac .

Approximate distribution by period (century):

PeriodNotable victories and comments
17th–18th centuriesEarly victories include the 1650 extraordinary Palio and multiple wins in the 18th century (1724, 1729, 1738, 1748, 1763, 1771, 1786). These show the Drago’s early participation and success.
19th centuryA period of revival with wins in 1833, 1845 (extraordinary), 1874, 1878, 1881, the extraordinary cavalli scossi Palio of 1889, the rare cappotto (double victory) in 1890, and another win in 1894 .
Early 20th centuryVictories in 1900, 1903, 1909, 1911 and 1921 reflect continuity in the early 1900s .
Mid‑20th centuryNotable wins in 1936, 1938, the Palio della Pace of 1945 and wins in the 1960s (1962, 1963, 1964, 1966) .
Late 20th centuryVictories resumed in 1986, 1989, 1992, 1993 and 2001 .
21st centuryRecent wins in 2014, 2018 and 2022 .

A key point from the chronological list is that the Drago has won two extraordinary Palios outside the usual dates of 2 July and 16 August (1650 and 1945) .

Memorable victories and anecdotes

Some of the Drago’s victories hold a special place in Palio history because of their exceptional circumstances:

  • The Palio della Pace (20 August 1945): This extraordinary Palio, run just after the end of the Second World War, is considered one of the most tumultuous races ever. Organised in haste to celebrate peace, the Drago presented a young pairing: 19‑year‑old jockey Gioacchino Calabrò (Rubacuori) riding Folco . The favourite was the Bruco, which had not won for 23 years . After two false starts and the protest withdrawal of Tartuca, the race finally proceeded. The Bruco led most of the way, but on the final lap Rubacuori exploited Folco’s speed to overtake and win for the Drago . Chaos erupted: Bruco contradaioli, furious at losing, rioted and tore the drappellone to pieces . The Drago received a reconstructed banner weeks later, repainted by Dino Rofi, who inserted a small caterpillar (Bruco symbol) among the flames of the dragon as an ironic reminder . This victory is legendary not only for the turmoil but because it symbolised the peace found after the war .
  • The 1890 “cappotto”: In Palio jargon, a cappotto means winning both ordinary races in the same year (the Palio di Provenzano in July and the Palio dell’Assunta in August), a rare and prestigious feat. The Drago achieved this in 1890, winning on 2 July and again on 16 August . The star was jockey Francesco Ceppatelli (Tabarre), who rode two different horses—Prete in July and Farfallina in August—and triumphed both times . Only 17 cappotti have occurred since 1701; the Drago’s 1890 cappotto remains a point of great pride .
  • The 1889 “cavalli scossi” Palio: The Drago holds the unusual record of winning the only Palio in history run entirely without jockeys (cavalli scossi). On 18 August 1889, an extraordinary Palio organised by the “Società delle feste,” all horses ran without riders, guided only by bersaglieri with moving targets; the Drago’s horse, a bay owned by Signor Marchetti, crossed the finish first . Initially considered unofficial, the victory was formally recognised in 1931 . The Drago can therefore claim to have won “without a jockey,” a rare boast .
  • Wins with riderless horses: Beyond the 1889 anomaly, the Drago also boasts two victories where its horse reached the finish line without its jockey: on 16 August 1989 with Benito III (the jockey Moretto fell), and on 16 August 1993 with Vittorio (jockey Mistero fell) . Such wins generate great excitement because seeing a barbero (Palio horse) win alone is epic . The 1989 victory broke a 23‑year drought and the 1993 win saw the Drago’s horse miraculously overtake the Oca’s favourite after the riders fell .
  • Recent victories and legendary jockeys: In the contemporary era, the Drago’s recent successes and the jockeys who signed them are noteworthy. On 2 July 2014 the Drago returned to winning after 13 years thanks to jockey Alberto Ricceri (Salasso) on Oppio, a somewhat unexpected victory . On 2 July 2018 Andrea Mari (Brio) won on Rocco Nice ; Brio, who sadly passed away in 2021, was one of the most beloved jockeys and had a deep friendship with the Drago . Lastly, on 2 July 2022 the Drago triumphed with Giovanni Atzeni (Tittìa) on Zio Frac . Tittìa is currently the star jockey of the Palio, and with that victory—his ninth overall but first for the Drago—he further enhanced the contrada’s prestige . These recent victories led to huge celebrations in the neighbourhood; for example, in 2018 the Drago held a victory dinner with over 1,500 participants .

Behind every banner hanging in the Sala delle Vittorie lies a story of legendary horses, courageous jockeys and moments of glory. The Contrada del Drago has collected many: from the Palio della Pace to the 1890 cappotto, from riderless wins to recent successes with champion jockeys . To delve deeper, listen to contradaioli at the museum or on a guided tour; they will passionately recount tales of Rubacuori and Folco, Tabarre and his double triumph, Benito III winning without a rider, and how “Il cor che m’arde divien fiamma in bocca” manifests each time the Drago crosses the finish line first .

Walking itinerary: from Hotel Minerva to the Contrada del Drago

Suggested route

The Hotel Minerva in Via Garibaldi 72 is a short distance from the Drago’s territory and provides an excellent base for a walking tour of the district . The itinerary below covers roughly 20–30 minutes (not counting stops) from the hotel to the heart of the contrada, highlighting some historic and scenic spots :

  1. Departure from Hotel Minerva (Via Garibaldi): Upon leaving the hotel, you are on Via Garibaldi, a road skirting the historic centre. Turn left (east) uphill. After a few dozen metres you might glimpse the dome of Santa Maria di Provenzano in the distance . Continue on Via Garibaldi until a junction: left leads up Via del Risalita (towards San Domenico), while straight ahead Via Garibaldi curves and becomes Via delle Terme downhill. Take the left, following signs for San Domenico/Stadio .
  2. Ascent to the Medici Fortress and La Lizza: The uphill street (Via del Risalita or Via San Domenico) leads in minutes to the green area of La Lizza and the Medici Fortress . This is a notable panoramic point: you can enter the fortress’s gardens and climb the bastion walls to enjoy splendid views over Siena, including the Duomo and Torre del Mangia . On the opposite side of the street from the fortress is the Parco della Lizza with a statue of Garibaldi . This zone marks the north‑western edge of the Drago’s territory . Look near the fortress entrance for a ceramic plaque with the Drago symbol; such boundary tiles mark contrada borders throughout Siena .
  3. Piazza Giacomo Matteotti: Continue from La Lizza towards the south‑east; after passing the bus terminal you reach Piazza Matteotti. This modern square is a major urban hub with bus and taxi stops. It is significant for the contrada: here you find the Drago’s Baptismal Fountain and the headquarters/museum . Look for the corner where Via dei Montanini intersects—there you will see the column and sculpture described earlier . The square shows how contrada tradition lives amidst modernity: opposite the fountain is the entrance to the Società di Camporegio and the museum . Even without entering, you are in the heart of the Drago; watch for flags hanging from windows, especially during Palio or feast times . During celebrations, the square turns into a scene of spontaneous festivities, with contradaioli diving into the fountain in joy and waving their rose‑green flags .
  4. Via dei Montanini and Via di Camporegio: From the square, make two short detours to savour the neighbourhood’s atmosphere. First, walk a few steps along Via dei Montanini (right side facing the fountain), an elegant street once part of Siena’s main thoroughfare . Go about 100 metres to the Arco dei Montanini, under which there is a tabernacle; formerly the church of San Donato dei Montanini stood here . Note the walls’ emblems and plaques marking the territory. Return to Piazza Matteotti and take Via di Camporegio, the narrow uphill lane next to the fountain . After a few steps you reach Piazza Camporegio, a picturesque square of brick houses . Above you looms the Basilica of San Domenico. This piazza marks the site of Poggio Malavolti, a historic place for the Drago; in summer the contrada organises outdoor dinners here . The second entrance to the oratory of Santa Caterina also opens onto this piazza. Peek inside if the door is open—you might catch a glimpse of event preparations or the stairway to the oratory .
  5. Basilica of San Domenico: From Piazza Camporegio, climb the stairs or path to the large square of San Domenico. While slightly outside the strict contrada route, it is a must and indirectly linked to the Drago through Saint Catherine (her sacred head relic is kept here) . The Gothic basilica houses artworks and the chapel of Saint Catherine. Outside, pause at the belvedere next to the church for one of Siena’s most famous panoramas over the old city and the Duomo . From here you can also glimpse part of the Drago territory and possibly spot Hotel Minerva to the north‑west .
  6. Return or further exploration: After San Domenico, you can head back to Hotel Minerva by retracing Via di Camporegio and Via Garibaldi, or continue exploring Siena. You are near the Santuario di Santa Caterina in the Contrada dell’Oca (down Costa di Sant’Antonio) and close to Piazza Salimbeni and Via Banchi di Sopra. If you wish to stay in the Drago area, stroll along Via della Sapienza and Costa dell’Incrociata—other characteristic streets of the district—or visit the Artemio Franchi Stadium next to the fortress, where Palio horses are kept in the mornings for the draw .

This route combines cultural aspects (San Domenico, panoramic views) with contrada elements (fountain, Drago headquarters, district atmosphere). Following it, you will touch the Contrada del Drago firsthand: from historical sites (Camporegio, Malavolti) to living symbols (fountain, oratory, museum) . The path is easy and immersive, allowing you to appreciate not only Siena’s beauty but also the richness of contrada life—an element unique in the world that the city offers its attentive visitors . Have a good walk and, as dragaioli say by way of blessing, “may the Drago’s flame burn ever brightly!”

Accommodation categories

  • Junior Suite – completely renovated, spacious, elegant and functional .
  • Superior Room – rooms with a view of Siena’s historic centre .
  • Elegant standard – intimate and cosy, with views over the historic centre .
  • Easy Economy – ideal for business clientele .

Services

  • Guarded garage with 24‑hour porter .
  • Breakfast included – Italian and international .
  • Panoramic garden overlooking the historic centre .
  • Bar for a relaxing break .
  • 24‑hour reception, seven days a week .
  • Meeting room accommodating up to 40 people .
  • Relaxation area with quiet corners for discussion and relaxation .
  • Horseback riding among the Sienese hills .

Hotel information

Minerva S.r.l. – Hotel Minerva Siena *** – Via Garibaldi 72 – 53100 Siena, Tuscany, Italy . Tax code and VAT number: IT00070660527; registered in the Siena Companies Register (REA SI‑38079) with a share capital of €62,000 . Contact numbers: +39 0577 284474 / +39 335 7068384; email: info@albergominerva.it or albergominervasiena@lamiapec.it . Price range: approximately €60–€150 per room .