Calcio

You haven't experienced Italy until you have experienced a soccer game.  The security used for the last soccer game in Siena looked eerily similar to the L.A. riots in the 90's.  These people get a little over excited; flipping over cars, overly intoxicated while getting into fights, mobbing in the streets and such.  I was a bit shocked to not only see several paramedics on hand sitting in the stands, but also police brigades and lines of patrol cars, guns, and street blockades.  Soccer game= neighborhood warfare.

The best source for understanding Italian hand gestures thus far was sitting in the stands watching as Italians were rooting for their favorite players.  Not only did EVERYONE know every chant, but they all stood up and sang each one with such passion and such verve that you would think it was their national anthem.  Which look back, it pretty much is.  I've never seen a group of people become so excited over a game in my life.  I'm talking older ladies jumping up and yelling while waving their flags and refusing to sit down.  I decided to leave a bit early so I could make it home in one piece!