Siena is today a unique treasure of artistic masterpieces. Siena's noble history is entwined with finance, music and cuisine. It is the proud home of the celebrated music school: the Accademia Chigiana, where many celebrated composers or musicians have played or taught. Another attraction of the city is the 750 years old university that hosts students from all parts of Italy and many foreign students. Each stone of the city has remained intact for centuries. you can experience an atmosphere that you can't find anywhere else. Its people has maintained all its traditions such as those related to the Palio (a horse race that takes place twice a year, July 2nd and August 16th in the suggestive Piazza del Campo). This race reflects the Medieval agonistic spirit of the contradas (town districts).