Postcard from Siena: Chigiana International Festival

The rain was so heavy during my first days in Siena that the city had to delay its famed, centuries-old Palio horse race not once, but twice. And if there’s one thing you should know about Siena, it’s that it takes the Palio very seriously. But as the Tuscan sun finally revealed itself on 4 July, the race took place and its accompanying pomp and circumstance filled the streets with resounding drum fanfares and chants. It also gave way to the 5 July opening of the Chigiana International Festival…