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Siena, Italy - Contrada - Tartuca (Tortoise)
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Siena, Italy - Contrada - Tartuca (Tortoise)
Standard bearer of the Contrada of Tartuca (Tortoise), Siena, Italy. At birth you become a member of one of the 17 Contrade (Districts) and your life revolves around your Contrada. Each contrada is named after an animal or symbol with individual (and complicated!) heraldic and semi-mythological associations and devices. The contrade race against each other in the famous horse race the Palio around the tight (and dangerous) streets of the city.
circa 1910
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Media ID 11581249
© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection
Bearer Contrada Contrade Districts Loyalty Siena Standard Symbol Symbology Tortoise
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this evocative image from the early 20th century, the standard bearer of the Contrada of Tartuca (Tortoise) proudly displays his colorful banner in the historic Italian city of Siena. Founded in the Middle Ages, Siena is renowned for its 17 distinctive Contrade, or districts, each with its unique name, heraldic devices, and deep-rooted sense of community and loyalty. Born into one of these districts, a person's life revolves around the Contrada, shaping their identity and traditions. The Tortoise, symbolized by the Contrada of Tartuca, is one such symbol, with intricate and semi-mythological associations that add to the rich tapestry of Sienese culture. The Contrada members, dressed in their vibrant costumes adorned with the Tortoise's emblem, eagerly await the annual Palio horse race. This thrilling event, held twice a year, sees the districts compete against each other in a heart-pounding, high-stakes competition that takes place on the narrow, winding streets of Siena. The standard bearer, holding aloft the Tortoise's flag, embodies the pride and determination of his district. The intricate design on the flag, with its bold colors and intricate patterns, reflects the complex symbology that underpins the Contrada system. This photograph, taken circa 1910, captures a moment in time that showcases the enduring spirit and traditions of the Contrada of Tartuca and the larger Sienese community. The image is part of the Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection from Mary Evans Prints Online.
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