Piazza di Siena 2026

Piazza di Siena, Rome

Piazza di Siena is a grass oval set among the umbrella pines of Villa Borghese, in the heart of Rome, and one of the most storied arenas in equestrian sport. International jumping made its debut here in 1922; the Rome competition joined the FEI international calendar in 1926, and after brief spells at other Roman racecourses the horse show settled back at Piazza di Siena in 1929. The CSIO di Roma has returned almost every year since, and the 2026 edition marks the event's 100th running.

The arena's character comes from its setting: riders compete on turf inside a historic park, ringed by trees rather than concrete. The surface was switched to silica sand in 2007, but recent editions have restored the grass and the original shape of the oval.

The arena and where you watch from

There is no permanent stadium here. During the horse show, spectators follow the action from tribunes set up around the oval and from the natural slopes and lawns of Villa Borghese that overlook the field — an open, garden-party atmosphere that sets Piazza di Siena apart from purpose-built venues.

Getting there

Villa Borghese is easiest to reach on metro line A. From Flaminio station, enter the park at Piazzale Flaminio and walk up into the gardens; from Spagna station, climb to the top of the Spanish Steps, turn left and you are inside the park within about five minutes, with Piazza di Siena a short walk further on.

Good to know

What is Piazza di Siena used for? It is the home of the CSIO di Roma, the international horse show held each May, alongside other open-air events in Villa Borghese.

Is it an enclosed stadium? No — it is an open oval in a public park, with temporary tribunes erected for the show and free-flowing viewing areas around the field.

How historic is the event? Jumping was first staged here in 1922, and the Rome CSIO celebrates its 100th edition in 2026.