Our Own Sort of Scavenger Hunt

We had the whole day today free to do as we pleased so we slept in a bit and took it easy this morning. Steph and I ventured out and explored the city, first just to do some souvenir shopping and look around some different pottery shops. Then we decided to do some exploring. Each contrada as I mentioned has a mascot, a fountain, a church and with the Palio going on the each have flags flying to show their pride. We decided to find each of the fountains and flags as we meandered through the city. We hit Pantera (Panther), Chiocciola (Snail), Aquila (Eagle) Tartuca (Tortoise) and Onda (Wave/Dolphin). So tomorrow we have to get the other 12, but I don't think it should be too hard. After that we met up with some friends for lunch and ended up back at our new favorite, Chinese! 

There are two Provas each day leading up to the Palio, so Steph and I went to the Prova this evening. We didn't find any of our group at first but saw the Belzers walking in a bit later and killed some time before the race started playing cards and talking. Tonight was much more crowded than last night and I thought last night was crowded, so I am curious to see what the actual Palio will be like. It took the horses some time to get into position and get settled, but it was fun to hear the different contradas singing their songs. Torre was sitting in the stands behind where we were sitting and they had a sort of sing off with their rivals Oca. 

Another exciting day in Siena!!


Until tomorrow, Ciao!