Siena, Civil Religion and the Sienese

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Focusing on the relationship between Sienese devotion to the Virgin and the Palio festival, this book traces the evolution of civil religion in Siena from the medieval period to today. It highlights how the Palio serves as a vital expression of Sienese culture, identity, and values, linking contemporary practices to historical traditions. By integrating insights from civil religion discussions in various contexts, the work reveals how rituals and symbols foster a unique Sienese identity. The book is richly illustrated and includes a comprehensive bibliography.