Built on three hills and surrounded by a wall, Siena, in central Italy, boasts a historic charm with homes over 700 years old still inhabited. Twice a year in the Piazza del Campo, the Palio di Siena a highly anticipated horse race occurs. Its rich history spans eight centuries and the origins can be traced back to the spirited competition among the contrade (city wards) that were established as defense battalions to safeguard the city. These wards have evolved into a closely knit community.