Siena postpones Palio stage assembly due to extreme heat

The Municipality of Siena has postponed the assembly of the 'palco delle comparse' in Piazza del Campo to the early morning of Friday, August 14. This decision was made to protect workers from extreme heat expected on Thursday, August 13, with forecasted temperatures reaching 37-38 degrees Celsius and perceived temperatures exceeding 40 degrees.

The postponement means the stage will not be available for the evening of August 13, affecting the traditional presence of children from the Contrade during the first Palio rehearsal. However, the structure will be ready in time for the second rehearsal on the morning of August 14.

The move aligns with a Tuscany regional ordinance protecting workers from prolonged sun exposure during high-risk periods. Additionally, discussions have emerged regarding the welfare of the horses, with proposals suggested to exempt them from the 'Corteo Storico' parade to prevent heat exhaustion.