August 12 at 7:30pm. Presented by Carla Gambescia. $10. Click here for more info & to register. Il Palio di Siena, a four-day cultural sporting extravaganza, culminates in the world’s most thrilling horse race and takes place twice every summer — on July 2 and August 16.

Though canceled this year, you can experience its colorful pageantry virtually through stunning photographs taken at last year’s race. Author, lecturer and photographer Carla Gambescia will explain the history behind the race which lasts a mere 75- 90 seconds but represents the climax of a fiercely competitive all-consuming year-round rivalry between the 17 contrade (districts) of Siena.

Carla will also touch on some of the gorgeously preserved highlights of Siena, where the Middle Ages seem to survive in the architecture as well as the civic spirit.