{"id":22134,"date":"2026-01-08T12:23:01","date_gmt":"2026-01-08T11:23:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/?page_id=22134"},"modified":"2026-01-08T12:23:03","modified_gmt":"2026-01-08T11:23:03","slug":"contrada-del-drago-history-traditions-museum-and-palios-won","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/en\/contrada-del-drago-history-traditions-museum-and-palios-won\/","title":{"rendered":"Contrada del Drago: history, traditions, museum and Palios won"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Introduction<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The <strong>Contrada del Drago<\/strong> is one of Siena\u2019s 17 historic <em>contrade<\/em>. It is located in the <strong>Terzo di Camollia<\/strong>, in the north\u2011western part of the city . The Drago\u2019s territory stretches from the area of the Medici Fortress and the municipal stadium to the Basilica of San&nbsp;Domenico, including parts of <strong>Via dei Montanini<\/strong> and the surroundings of <strong>Poggio Malavolti<\/strong> . Nearby lies <strong>Hotel&nbsp;Minerva<\/strong> (Via&nbsp;Garibaldi&nbsp;72), an ideal starting point for exploring this <em>contrada<\/em>: it takes only a few minutes on foot to reach <strong>Piazza&nbsp;Giacomo Matteotti<\/strong>, the Drago\u2019s main square, where you will find the baptismal fountain and the museum\/headquarters .<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this guide we will get to know the Contrada del Drago up close\u2014its centuries\u2011long history, traditions and places to visit (museum and oratory) through a question\u2011and\u2011answer format . We will also learn about the Drago\u2019s 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&nbsp;Minerva through the streets of Siena to the heart of the <em>contrada<\/em>, indicating points of interest along the way . Let us dive into the soul of one of Siena\u2019s oldest and most fascinating <em>contrade<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n<div style=\"display:flex; justify-content:center;\">\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Hotel Minerva   Full 4K ITA\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/AW3LygfbUKw?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Location and symbols<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where is the Contrada del Drago and what are its symbols?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Drago occupies the area of the <strong>Terzo di Camollia<\/strong>, one of the three ancient districts into which Siena\u2019s historic centre is divided . Its territory includes key streets and squares: <strong>Piazza Matteotti<\/strong> (the nerve centre where the fountain and <em>contrada<\/em> society are located), <strong>Via di Camporegio<\/strong> (home to the <em>Societ\u00e0 Camporegio<\/em>) and part of <strong>Via dei&nbsp;Montanini<\/strong>, one of Siena\u2019s main streets . The <em>contrada<\/em> is bordered by the neighbouring <em>contrade<\/em> of <strong>Onda<\/strong>, <strong>Lupa<\/strong>, <strong>Istrice<\/strong> and <strong>Aquila<\/strong>, 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\u2014only about a ten\u2011minute walk north from Piazza del&nbsp;Campo .<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Emblem and colours<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The heraldic emblem of the Drago depicts, as the name suggests, a <strong>golden winged dragon<\/strong>, crowned in medieval style, with its wings spread . In its right claw the dragon holds a blue pennant bearing the letter <strong>\u201cU\u201d<\/strong>, topped by a royal crown\u2014an historic reference to King Umberto&nbsp;I of Savoy . The <em>contrada\u2019s<\/em> official colours are <strong>old rose and green<\/strong>, crossed with yellow . These colours appear on flags, costumes and on the silk neckerchief (\u201c<em>gioiello<\/em>\u201d) worn proudly by <em>contradaioli<\/em>. The motto of the Contrada del Drago is <em>\u201cIl cor che m\u2019arde divien fiamma in bocca\u201d<\/em>, a poetic expression in Sienese dialect meaning \u201cThe heart that burns within me becomes a flame in the mouth,\u201d alluding to the dragon\u2019s inner fire that manifests outwardly .<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Patron saint, alliances and rivalries<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Every <em>contrada<\/em> traditionally has a patron saint, alliances and\u2014sometimes\u2014rivalries. The Drago venerates <strong>Saint Catherine of Siena<\/strong>, the great 14th\u2011century mystic, as its patron and celebrates its <strong>titular feast<\/strong> on the last Sunday of May . The choice is significant: although the saint\u2019s birthplace lies in the territory of the Contrada dell\u2019Oca, the Drago is particularly devoted to her because its church (the <em>contrada<\/em> oratory) is dedicated to <strong>Santa&nbsp;Caterina<\/strong>. Uniquely, the Drago <strong>has no official rival<\/strong>; it is the only Siena <em>contrada<\/em> 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 <strong>special alliance with the Contrada dell\u2019Aquila<\/strong>, an alliance that has endured over time and is evident during joint celebrations and mutual support at the Palio .<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Summary of key facts<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Item<\/th><th>Details<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>District (Terzo)<\/strong><\/td><td>Camollia<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Emblem<\/strong><\/td><td>A winged golden dragon with a pennant bearing the letter \u201cU\u201d<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Colours<\/strong><\/td><td>Old rose and green crossed with yellow<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Motto<\/strong><\/td><td>\u201cIl cor che m\u2019arde divien fiamma in bocca\u201d<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Patron Saint<\/strong><\/td><td>Saint Catherine of Siena (celebrated last Sunday of May)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Allied Contrada<\/strong><\/td><td>Aquila<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Rival Contrada<\/strong><\/td><td>None (no official rivalry)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Traditional guild<\/strong><\/td><td>Bankers (each <em>contrada<\/em> historically associated with a trade)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Palio victories<\/strong><\/td><td>39 victories (first in 1650, last in 2022)<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Contrada del Drago therefore combines the proud dragon symbolism with historical references (the \u201cU\u201d of Umberto&nbsp;I), unusual yet striking colours, and a strategic position within the city. Often called <strong>\u201cPopolo di Camporegio,\u201d<\/strong> it takes this nickname from the locality <strong>Poggio&nbsp;di&nbsp;Camporegio<\/strong> (the area around San&nbsp;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 .<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">History of the Contrada del Drago<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Origins and key milestones<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Drago\u2019s history has roots in late medieval and Renaissance Siena. As early as the 15th century there are traces of this <em>contrada<\/em>: historical research documents the existence of a local group named \u201cDrago\u201d in <strong>1481<\/strong>, predating the formal establishment of <em>contrade<\/em> as participants in public events . On <strong>1 March 1494<\/strong> the Drago (along with Giraffa, Chiocciola and Onda) appeared with its own symbol at the <strong>Gioco delle Pugna<\/strong>, a public spectacle in Piazza del Campo . This is one of the earliest documented references to the <em>contrada<\/em> in an official city event, indicating that by the late 1400s the Drago already had a well\u2011recognised neighbourhood identity .<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>During the 16th and 17th centuries, the <em>contrade<\/em> gradually took on their current form. For a long time, until the mid\u20111600s, members of the Drago gathered in private houses or workshops within the district . A turning point came in <strong>1650<\/strong>: in the same year that the Drago would win its first Palio (see later), the <em>contrada<\/em> was granted the use of a room at the lay company of San&nbsp;Domenico in Camporegio as its official meeting place . This concession tied the Drago to the powerful religious complex of San&nbsp;Domenico and laid the groundwork for a long\u2011lasting collaboration. From 1679 the Company even agreed to contribute to the Palio expenses on condition that, in case of victory, the <strong>Drappellone<\/strong> (painted banner) be offered on the altar of San&nbsp;Domenico . This quasi\u2011religious patronage lasted about a century, until disagreements ended the arrangement after the Drago\u2019s victory on 2 July 1738 . Only one banner from this period survives today\u2014the drappellone of 16 August 1786\u2014preserved in the <em>Sala delle Vittorie<\/em> .<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A fundamental chapter opened in <strong>1787<\/strong> when <strong>Grand&nbsp;Duke Pietro Leopoldo<\/strong> donated to the <em>contrada<\/em> the <strong>church of Santa&nbsp;Caterina in Paradiso<\/strong> (along with part of the adjoining former convent) to serve as its oratory . Built around 1620 on an earlier 15th\u2011century church, this baroque church sits on an elevation known as <strong>Poggio Malavolti (Camporegio)<\/strong> . 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 <em>contrada<\/em> . Over time, the museum housing the Drago\u2019s treasures (Palios, costumes, memorabilia) grew in the rooms below and adjoining the church . Today\u2019s 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 .<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>During the 19th and 20th centuries, the Contrada del Drago endured Napoleon\u2019s suppressions and changing times but kept its spirit alive. It owns the <strong>oldest surviving costume<\/strong> among Siena\u2019s <em>contrade<\/em>: a \u201cSpanish\u2011style\u201d outfit from <strong>1839<\/strong>, preserved and occasionally displayed . In the 20th century the <em>contrada<\/em> adopted a modern organisation with statutes and elective bodies such as the <em>Consiglio<\/em> and the <em>Seggio<\/em> led by the <strong>Priore<\/strong>, and actively participated in civic life and Palio competitions . Although not among the most victorious <em>contrade<\/em>, the Drago has amassed an impressive <strong>39 Palio wins<\/strong> and experienced epic moments, such as the <strong>Palio della Pace<\/strong> in 1945 . In recent decades the <em>contrada<\/em> has been noted for internal harmony and leadership stability: statistically, its officers (Priore and Capitano) have served the longest average terms of any Siena <em>contrada<\/em>, indicating cohesion and continuity .<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Summary<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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&nbsp;Caterina\u2019s church to the contemporary museum, the Drago intertwines myth, faith and popular passion . Every corner of the district tells part of this history\u2014the Malavolti alleyways, the Camporegio piazzetta, the fountain inscription, flags fluttering during the Palio\u2014painting a vivid portrait of this timeless <em>contrada<\/em> .<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Traditions and festivities<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Patronal feast and baptismal fountain<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The life of the Contrada del Drago\u2014like that of every <em>contrada<\/em> in Siena\u2014is rich in centuries\u2011old traditions blending sacred and profane, social gatherings and solemn rituals . Key aspects include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Titular Feast of Saint Catherine<\/strong>: Since Saint Catherine of Siena is the patron, each year on the <strong>last Sunday of May<\/strong> the Drago celebrates its titular feast . The weekend of celebrations includes religious ceremonies (solemn mass in the Oratory of Santa\u00a0Caterina in Paradiso), processions through the district streets with <em>contradaioli<\/em> in historical dress, and convivial moments such as the <strong>victory dinner<\/strong> (if the Palio has been won that year) or communal dinners and toasts .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Contradaiolo baptism<\/strong>: During the titular feast the <strong>Battesimo contradaiolo<\/strong> takes place: newborns or children connected to the <em>contrada<\/em> by family or residence are symbolically \u201cbaptised\u201d with water from the <em>contrada<\/em>\u2019s fountain, receiving the Drago colours . In the Drago, the ceremony occurs at the baptismal fountain in <strong>Piazza Matteotti<\/strong>; the <strong>Priore<\/strong> recites the traditional formula and sprinkles the child\u2019s forehead with fountain water while drums roll and flags wave . From that moment the child becomes a <em>dragaiolo<\/em> (Drago <em>contradaiolo<\/em>) for life .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The baptismal fountain<\/strong>: Each <em>contrada<\/em> has a fountain where the lay baptism is held, but the Drago\u2019s fountain is particularly artistic. Inaugurated in <strong>1977<\/strong>, it is the work of Sienese sculptor <strong>Vico Consorti<\/strong>, himself a Drago <em>contradaiolo<\/em> . The fountain consists of a column inscribed with a dedication (\u201cThe love of the <em>contrada<\/em> entrusts to future <em>dragaioli<\/em> the memory of the great Priors Mario Calamati and Alberto Rossi\u201d) 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\u2019s hand is painted in the Drago colours (red\u2011green, i.e., old rose and green), symbolising the <em>contrada<\/em> 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 <em>contrada<\/em> heritage to the young. The fountain stands in a corner of Piazza\u00a0Matteotti, opposite the <em>contrada<\/em>\u2019s headquarters and museum . Each year during the titular feast, new <em>contradaioli<\/em> are baptised there .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Life of the <em>contrada and the Societ\u00e0 Camporegio<\/em><\/strong>: The beating heart of Drago social life is the <strong>Societ\u00e0 di Camporegio<\/strong>, the <em>contrada\u2019s<\/em> recreation club. Its premises at <strong>Via di Camporegio\u00a01<\/strong>, under the oratory in the former convent, host <em>contradaioli<\/em> year\u2011round for dinners, assemblies, parties and initiatives . Typical traditions include regular Friday dinners (\u201c<em>cenenino<\/em>\u201d), propitiatory dinners before the Palio and the grand <strong>Victory Dinner<\/strong> when the Drago wins the Palio . Throughout the year there are events for all ages: tournaments (football, target shooting, board games) among <em>contradaioli<\/em>, dance evenings and lotteries, in addition to collective participation in Palio trials and the historic parade . The Drago, like other <em>contrade<\/em>, also cares about educating its young members: the <strong>Gruppo Piccoli Dragaioli<\/strong> involves children and teenagers in playful and cultural activities related to the <em>contrada<\/em>, teaching them from an early age the hymns, flag handling, drumbeat and community values . This generational transmission is crucial to keep the <em>contrada<\/em> spirit alive .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Other rituals<\/strong>: Among the Drago\u2019s peculiar customs is the traditional floral homage on <strong>29\u00a0April<\/strong> (the feast day of Saint Catherine) at the Basilica of San\u00a0Domenico where her relics are kept . A costumed delegation brings flowers in devotion. Each <em>contrada<\/em> also has an official hymn: the Drago\u2019s is titled <strong>\u201cIl canto del drago\u201d<\/strong> (with a refrain chanting \u201cDrago, Drago!\u201d) and is sung in chorus on solemn occasions, especially after a Palio victory . After winning the Palio, another heartfelt rite is the <strong>thanksgiving mass (Te\u00a0Deum)<\/strong> celebrated in the Duomo with allied <em>contrade<\/em>, a tradition shared by all winning <em>contrade<\/em> .<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Generally, the Contrada del Drago lives 365 days a year through a busy calendar of events\u2014supporting 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\u2019s 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\u2011old traditions .<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Museum of the Contrada del Drago<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Location and sections<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Every Siena <em>contrada<\/em> has its own museum; the Drago\u2019s museum is particularly interesting for understanding the history and art connected to the <em>contrada<\/em>. It is located in spaces adjacent to and below the <strong>Oratory of Santa&nbsp;Caterina del Paradiso<\/strong>, the <em>contrada<\/em> church at <strong>Via del Paradiso&nbsp;1<\/strong> in the Poggio Malavolti area . The museum entrance coincides with the historic\u2011museum headquarters opposite the fountain in Piazza&nbsp;Matteotti and is often recognisable by the Drago emblem over the architrave .<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The museum complex is divided into multiple sections, offering visitors a fascinating journey through the Drago\u2019s memory :<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>The Oratory of Santa\u00a0Caterina<\/strong>: Part of the museum route is the baroque oratory itself, small but richly decorated. Built around 1620 on a pre\u2011existing 15th\u2011century church, it has a single nave and houses important sacred artworks . Visitors can admire 17th\u2011century paintings by Sienese artists such as Francesco Rustici, Raffaello Vanni and Domenico Manetti; a precious polychrome terracotta bust of Saint Catherine by <strong>Lorenzo Marrina<\/strong> (1517); and a wooden crucifix from the 15th century . These masterpieces highlight the interweaving of faith and <em>contrada<\/em> tradition .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hall of Victories (Sala delle Vittorie)<\/strong>: Descending into the rooms under the church, one reaches the heart of the museum, the <strong>Sala delle Vittorie<\/strong>, where the <strong>Drappelloni<\/strong>\u2014the painted banners won by the <em>contrada<\/em> in various Palio editions\u2014are 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:<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The <strong>Palio of 2\u00a0July 1921<\/strong>, the first Palio painted by a woman, the Roman artist <strong>Maria\u00a0De\u00a0Maria<\/strong> .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The <strong>Palio of 20\u00a0August 1945<\/strong>, the famous <strong>Palio della Pace<\/strong>, painted by <strong>Dino Rofi<\/strong>. This banner has a unique history: Rofi only sketched it initially due to the short time to organise the post\u2011war Palio; after the race the original banner was torn to pieces during riots by the disappointed Bruco <em>contradaioli<\/em>. Rofi later repainted it entirely, adding a small caterpillar among the flames of the dragon as a mischievous reminder of the rivalry .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Banners from noted Sienese artists of the early 20th century such as <strong>Ezio Pollai<\/strong> (1930) and <strong>Plinio Tammaro<\/strong> (1933) .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Several banners from the late 20th century and contemporary times painted by renowned artists: <strong>Carlo Cerasoli<\/strong>, Frenchman <strong>G\u00e9rard Fromanger<\/strong>, <strong>Mimmo Paladino<\/strong>, <strong>Ruggero Savinio<\/strong>, <strong>Silvano \u201cNano\u201d Campeggi<\/strong> (famous for his film posters), <strong>Rosalba Parrini<\/strong> and <strong>Emilio Giannelli<\/strong>. The most recent is the <strong>2\u00a0July\u00a02022<\/strong> Palio painted by British artist <strong>Emma Sergeant<\/strong>, another prestigious female name associated with a Drago victory .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Gallery of Costumes and Flags<\/strong>: Another section, sometimes set up in separate rooms, is the <strong>Galleria delle Monture<\/strong>, which conserves historic costumes used by the Drago\u2019s <em>comparsa<\/em> in the Palio\u2019s historic parade . Among these is the already mentioned 1839 Spanish\u2011style costume\u2014the oldest intact in Siena\u2014and various 19th\u2011 and 20th\u2011century costumes richly hand\u2011decorated, 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 .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Other memorabilia<\/strong>: Completing the museum are various trophies and items linked to Drago life. For instance, the museum displays <strong>Masgalano<\/strong> trophies won by the <em>contrada<\/em> (awarded to the <em>contrada<\/em> 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 <em>contrada<\/em>, as well as gifts from other <em>contrade<\/em> or from civic institutions on special occasions . A corner is often dedicated to <strong>illustrious figures of the Drago<\/strong>\u2014portraits of historic captains or jockeys who rode for the <em>contrada<\/em> .<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Visiting the museum<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Usually, <em>contrada<\/em> museums do not have daily opening hours like state museums; they can be visited <strong>by appointment<\/strong> or on special dates . The Contrada del Drago organises guided visits on request, especially for groups; by contacting the <em>contrada<\/em> 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 <em>contrada<\/em> 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 <em>contradaioli<\/em> explain each victory and seeing the costumes and ceremonial items gives a unique insight into the <em>contrada<\/em>\u2019s soul .<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Palio victories<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Overview of victories and chronological list<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The <strong>Contrada del Drago<\/strong> has won <strong>39 Palios<\/strong> in its history (up to the 2022 Palio) . The first victory dates back to <strong>1650<\/strong>, and the latest to <strong>2&nbsp;July 2022<\/strong> . With 39 wins \u201con the field,\u201d the Drago ranks in the middle\u2011high tier of the Palio honours list: it is not among the topmost (the Oca boasts 66, Chiocciola 51, etc.), but it surpasses many other <em>contrade<\/em> and has enjoyed periods of great success .<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The article provides a detailed chronological list of all 39 victories, including date, jockey (nickname) and horse . Here we summarise the <strong>first<\/strong> and <strong>last<\/strong> victories and offer a tally by period:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>First victory<\/strong>: 6\u00a0November\u00a01650 (extraordinary Palio) \u2013 jockey unknown .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Most recent victory<\/strong>: 2\u00a0July\u00a02022 \u2013 jockey <strong>Giovanni\u00a0Atzeni<\/strong> (Titt\u00eca) on <strong>Zio\u00a0Frac<\/strong> .<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Approximate distribution by period (century):<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Period<\/th><th>Notable victories and comments<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>17th\u201318th centuries<\/strong><\/td><td>Early victories include the 1650 extraordinary Palio and multiple wins in the 18th century (1724, 1729, 1738, 1748, 1763, 1771, 1786). These show the Drago\u2019s early participation and success.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>19th century<\/strong><\/td><td>A period of revival with wins in 1833, 1845 (extraordinary), 1874, 1878, 1881, the extraordinary <strong>cavalli scossi<\/strong> Palio of 1889, the rare <strong>cappotto<\/strong> (double victory) in 1890, and another win in 1894 .<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Early 20th century<\/strong><\/td><td>Victories in 1900, 1903, 1909, 1911 and 1921 reflect continuity in the early 1900s .<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Mid\u201120th century<\/strong><\/td><td>Notable wins in 1936, 1938, the <strong>Palio della Pace<\/strong> of 1945 and wins in the 1960s (1962, 1963, 1964, 1966) .<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Late 20th century<\/strong><\/td><td>Victories resumed in 1986, 1989, 1992, 1993 and 2001 .<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>21st century<\/strong><\/td><td>Recent wins in 2014, 2018 and 2022 .<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>A key point from the chronological list is that the Drago has won <strong>two extraordinary Palios<\/strong> outside the usual dates of 2 July and 16 August (1650 and 1945) .<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Memorable victories and anecdotes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Some of the Drago\u2019s victories hold a special place in Palio history because of their exceptional circumstances:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>The Palio della Pace (20\u00a0August\u00a01945)<\/strong>: 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\u2011year\u2011old jockey <strong>Gioacchino Calabr\u00f2<\/strong> (Rubacuori) riding <strong>Folco<\/strong> . 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\u2019s speed to overtake and win for the Drago . Chaos erupted: Bruco <em>contradaioli<\/em>, furious at losing, rioted and tore the <strong>drappellone<\/strong> to pieces . The Drago received a reconstructed banner weeks later, repainted by <strong>Dino Rofi<\/strong>, 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 .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The 1890 \u201ccappotto\u201d<\/strong>: In Palio jargon, a <strong>cappotto<\/strong> means winning both ordinary races in the same year (the Palio di Provenzano in July and the Palio dell\u2019Assunta in August), a rare and prestigious feat. The Drago achieved this in <strong>1890<\/strong>, winning on 2 July and again on 16 August . The star was jockey <strong>Francesco Ceppatelli<\/strong> (Tabarre), who rode two different horses\u2014Prete in July and Farfallina in August\u2014and triumphed both times . Only 17 cappotti have occurred since 1701; the Drago\u2019s 1890 cappotto remains a point of great pride .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The 1889 \u201ccavalli scossi\u201d Palio<\/strong>: The Drago holds the unusual record of winning the only Palio in history run entirely without jockeys (<strong><em>cavalli scossi<\/em><\/strong>). On <strong>18\u00a0August\u00a01889<\/strong>, an extraordinary Palio organised by the \u201cSociet\u00e0 delle feste,\u201d all horses ran without riders, guided only by bersaglieri with moving targets; the Drago\u2019s 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 \u201cwithout a jockey,\u201d a rare boast .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Wins with riderless horses<\/strong>: Beyond the 1889 anomaly, the Drago also boasts two victories where its horse reached the finish line <strong>without its jockey<\/strong>: on 16 August 1989 with <strong>Benito\u00a0III<\/strong> (the jockey Moretto fell), and on 16 August 1993 with <strong>Vittorio<\/strong> (jockey Mistero fell) . Such wins generate great excitement because seeing a <strong>barbero<\/strong> (Palio horse) win alone is epic . The 1989 victory broke a 23\u2011year drought and the 1993 win saw the Drago\u2019s horse miraculously overtake the Oca\u2019s favourite after the riders fell .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Recent victories and legendary jockeys<\/strong>: In the contemporary era, the Drago\u2019s recent successes and the jockeys who signed them are noteworthy. On <strong>2\u00a0July\u00a02014<\/strong> the Drago returned to winning after 13 years thanks to jockey <strong>Alberto Ricceri<\/strong> (Salasso) on <strong>Oppio<\/strong>, a somewhat unexpected victory . On <strong>2\u00a0July\u00a02018<\/strong> <strong>Andrea Mari<\/strong> (Brio) won on <strong>Rocco\u00a0Nice<\/strong> ; Brio, who sadly passed away in 2021, was one of the most beloved jockeys and had a deep friendship with the Drago . Lastly, on <strong>2\u00a0July\u00a02022<\/strong> the Drago triumphed with <strong>Giovanni\u00a0Atzeni<\/strong> (Titt\u00eca) on <strong>Zio\u00a0Frac<\/strong> . Titt\u00eca is currently the star jockey of the Palio, and with that victory\u2014his ninth overall but first for the Drago\u2014he further enhanced the <em>contrada\u2019s<\/em> 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 .<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>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 <em>contradaioli<\/em> at the museum or on a guided tour; they will passionately recount tales of Rubacuori and Folco, Tabarre and his double triumph, Benito&nbsp;III winning without a rider, and how \u201cIl cor che m\u2019arde divien fiamma in bocca\u201d manifests each time the Drago crosses the finish line first .<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Walking itinerary: from Hotel&nbsp;Minerva to the Contrada del Drago<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"759\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"19157\" src=\"https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/20241130_113503-759x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-19157\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/20241130_113503-759x1024.jpg 759w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/20241130_113503-222x300.jpg 222w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/20241130_113503-768x1036.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/20241130_113503-1000x1349.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/20241130_113503-700x944.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/20241130_113503.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 759px) 100vw, 759px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" data-id=\"15768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Camere-Hotel-Minerva-001-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-15768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Camere-Hotel-Minerva-001-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Camere-Hotel-Minerva-001-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Camere-Hotel-Minerva-001-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Camere-Hotel-Minerva-001-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Camere-Hotel-Minerva-001-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Camere-Hotel-Minerva-001-1000x666.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Camere-Hotel-Minerva-001-700x466.jpg 700w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" data-id=\"15684\" src=\"https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Camere-Hotel-Minerva-015-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-15684\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Camere-Hotel-Minerva-015-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Camere-Hotel-Minerva-015-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Camere-Hotel-Minerva-015-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Camere-Hotel-Minerva-015-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Camere-Hotel-Minerva-015-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Camere-Hotel-Minerva-015-1000x666.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Camere-Hotel-Minerva-015-700x466.jpg 700w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" data-id=\"15726\" src=\"https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Camere-Hotel-Minerva-022-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-15726\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Camere-Hotel-Minerva-022-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Camere-Hotel-Minerva-022-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Camere-Hotel-Minerva-022-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Camere-Hotel-Minerva-022-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Camere-Hotel-Minerva-022-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Camere-Hotel-Minerva-022-1000x666.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Camere-Hotel-Minerva-022-700x466.jpg 700w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"1510\" src=\"https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/Camere-Elegant-Vista-Hotel-Siena-Centro-002-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Camere Elegant Vista Hotel Siena Centro\" class=\"wp-image-1510\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/Camere-Elegant-Vista-Hotel-Siena-Centro-002.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/Camere-Elegant-Vista-Hotel-Siena-Centro-002-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"732\" src=\"https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/Camere-Elegant-Vista-Hotel-Siena-Centro-02-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-732\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/Camere-Elegant-Vista-Hotel-Siena-Centro-02.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/Camere-Elegant-Vista-Hotel-Siena-Centro-02-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/Camere-Elegant-Vista-Hotel-Siena-Centro-02-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"656\" src=\"https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/Hotel-Vista-Siena-Centro-02-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Camere con Vista Hotel Siena Centro\" class=\"wp-image-656\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/Hotel-Vista-Siena-Centro-02.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/Hotel-Vista-Siena-Centro-02-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/Hotel-Vista-Siena-Centro-02-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"467\" data-id=\"243\" src=\"https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/01\/Camere.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-243\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/01\/Camere.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/01\/Camere-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Suggested route<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The <strong>Hotel&nbsp;Minerva<\/strong> in Via&nbsp;Garibaldi&nbsp;72 is a short distance from the Drago\u2019s territory and provides an excellent base for a walking tour of the district . The itinerary below covers roughly 20\u201330 minutes (not counting stops) from the hotel to the heart of the <em>contrada<\/em>, highlighting some historic and scenic spots :<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Departure from Hotel\u00a0Minerva (Via\u00a0Garibaldi)<\/strong>: Upon leaving the hotel, you are on Via\u00a0Garibaldi, a road skirting the historic centre. Turn left (east) uphill. After a few dozen metres you might glimpse the dome of <strong>Santa\u00a0Maria di Provenzano<\/strong> in the distance . Continue on Via\u00a0Garibaldi until a junction: left leads up <strong>Via\u00a0del Risalita<\/strong> (towards San\u00a0Domenico), while straight ahead Via\u00a0Garibaldi curves and becomes Via\u00a0delle Terme downhill. Take the left, following signs for <strong>San\u00a0Domenico\/Stadio<\/strong> .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ascent to the Medici Fortress and La\u00a0Lizza<\/strong>: The uphill street (Via\u00a0del Risalita or Via\u00a0San\u00a0Domenico) leads in minutes to the green area of <strong>La\u00a0Lizza<\/strong> and the <strong>Medici Fortress<\/strong> . This is a notable panoramic point: you can enter the fortress\u2019s 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 <strong>Parco della Lizza<\/strong> with a statue of Garibaldi . This zone marks the north\u2011western edge of the Drago\u2019s territory . Look near the fortress entrance for a ceramic plaque with the Drago symbol; such boundary tiles mark <em>contrada<\/em> borders throughout Siena .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Piazza Giacomo Matteotti<\/strong>: Continue from La\u00a0Lizza towards the south\u2011east; after passing the bus terminal you reach <strong>Piazza Matteotti<\/strong>. This modern square is a major urban hub with bus and taxi stops. It is significant for the <em>contrada<\/em>: here you find the <strong>Drago\u2019s Baptismal Fountain<\/strong> and the headquarters\/museum . Look for the corner where Via\u00a0dei Montanini intersects\u2014there you will see the column and sculpture described earlier . The square shows how <em>contrada<\/em> tradition lives amidst modernity: opposite the fountain is the entrance to the <strong>Societ\u00e0 di Camporegio<\/strong> 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 <em>contradaioli<\/em> diving into the fountain in joy and waving their rose\u2011green flags .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Via dei Montanini and Via di Camporegio<\/strong>: From the square, make two short detours to savour the neighbourhood\u2019s atmosphere. First, walk a few steps along <strong>Via dei Montanini<\/strong> (right side facing the fountain), an elegant street once part of Siena\u2019s main thoroughfare . Go about 100 metres to the <strong>Arco dei Montanini<\/strong>, under which there is a tabernacle; formerly the <strong>church of San Donato dei Montanini<\/strong> stood here . Note the walls\u2019 emblems and plaques marking the territory. Return to Piazza Matteotti and take <strong>Via di Camporegio<\/strong>, the narrow uphill lane next to the fountain . After a few steps you reach <strong>Piazza Camporegio<\/strong>, a picturesque square of brick houses . Above you looms the <strong>Basilica of San\u00a0Domenico<\/strong>. This piazza marks the site of <strong>Poggio Malavolti<\/strong>, a historic place for the Drago; in summer the <em>contrada<\/em> organises outdoor dinners here . The second entrance to the oratory of Santa\u00a0Caterina also opens onto this piazza. Peek inside if the door is open\u2014you might catch a glimpse of event preparations or the stairway to the oratory .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Basilica of San\u00a0Domenico<\/strong>: From Piazza Camporegio, climb the stairs or path to the large square of <strong>San\u00a0Domenico<\/strong>. While slightly outside the strict <em>contrada<\/em> 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\u2019s 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\u00a0Minerva to the north\u2011west .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Return or further exploration<\/strong>: After San\u00a0Domenico, you can head back to Hotel\u00a0Minerva by retracing Via di Camporegio and Via Garibaldi, or continue exploring Siena. You are near the <strong>Santuario di Santa\u00a0Caterina<\/strong> in the Contrada dell\u2019Oca (down Costa di Sant\u2019Antonio) and close to <strong>Piazza Salimbeni<\/strong> and <strong>Via Banchi di Sopra<\/strong>. If you wish to stay in the Drago area, stroll along <strong>Via della Sapienza<\/strong> and <strong>Costa dell\u2019Incrociata<\/strong>\u2014other characteristic streets of the district\u2014or visit the <strong>Artemio Franchi Stadium<\/strong> next to the fortress, where Palio horses are kept in the mornings for the draw .<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>This route combines cultural aspects (San&nbsp;Domenico, panoramic views) with <em>contrada<\/em> 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\u2019s beauty but also the richness of <em>contrada<\/em> life\u2014an element unique in the world that the city offers its attentive visitors . Have a good walk and, as <em>dragaioli<\/em> say by way of blessing, <strong>\u201cmay the Drago\u2019s flame burn ever brightly!\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Accommodation categories<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Junior Suite<\/strong> \u2013 completely renovated, spacious, elegant and functional .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Superior Room<\/strong> \u2013 rooms with a view of Siena\u2019s historic centre .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Elegant standard<\/strong> \u2013 intimate and cosy, with views over the historic centre .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Easy Economy<\/strong> \u2013 ideal for business clientele .<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Services<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Guarded garage<\/strong> with 24\u2011hour porter .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Breakfast included<\/strong> \u2013 Italian and international .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Panoramic garden<\/strong> overlooking the historic centre .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bar<\/strong> for a relaxing break .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>24\u2011hour reception<\/strong>, seven days a week .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Meeting room<\/strong> accommodating up to 40 people .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Relaxation area<\/strong> with quiet corners for discussion and relaxation .<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Horseback riding<\/strong> among the Sienese hills .<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hotel information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Minerva S.r.l. \u2013 Hotel&nbsp;Minerva Siena *** \u2013 Via&nbsp;Garibaldi&nbsp;72 \u2013 53100 Siena, Tuscany, Italy . Tax code and VAT number: <strong>IT00070660527<\/strong>; registered in the Siena Companies Register (REA&nbsp;SI\u201138079) with a share capital of \u20ac62,000 . Contact numbers: <strong>+39&nbsp;0577&nbsp;284474<\/strong> \/ <strong>+39&nbsp;335&nbsp;7068384<\/strong>; email: <strong>info@albergominerva.it<\/strong> or <strong>albergominervasiena@lamiapec.it<\/strong> . Price range: approximately <strong>\u20ac60\u2013\u20ac150 per room<\/strong> .<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Introduction The Contrada del Drago is one of Siena\u2019s 17 historic contrade. It is located in the Terzo di Camollia,<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-22134","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Contrada del Drago: history, traditions, museum and Palios won - Hotel Minerva Siena<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.albergominerva.it\/en\/contrada-del-drago-history-traditions-museum-and-palios-won\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Contrada del Drago: history, traditions, museum and Palios won - Hotel Minerva Siena\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Introduction The Contrada del Drago is one of Siena\u2019s 17 historic contrade. 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