More Palio gubbins / 19th agosto 2011

It was Palio time again a couple of days ago. Martin was over to see it and unfortunately I managed to pick up some mega aids so couldn't go to the show - sorry dude, saw a little bit of the prequel build up though.

Being East Midlands boys we have decided that he and I should support Valdimontone (rampagin ram) and Selva (wood), respectively, for our local football teams.

Here we have an Italian teacher who gives an annual chat and presentation on the Palio. Using my stupidly expensive and overpriced magic pen (www.livescribe.com) I recorded what I wrote down. It is pretty interesting stuff and gives some good insight into the wierdness of it all here.

Of course, on top of the wierdness is the fact that the Palio just saps all the energy from this city, any energy that would be put into running social, art, sports clubs all goes into Palio balls. Harrrrumph. This explains why the Sienese are so closed (yet friendly) and so secretive for most of the year. I mean, when they win the Palio you never see anyone having a single drop of drink. Silly southern Europeans!

Ciao for now!