 The Feriae Augusti, in addition to its propaganda function, linked the various August festivals to provide a longer period of rest, called "Augustali", which was felt necessary after the hard labour of the previous weeks.During these celebrations, horse races were organised across the Empire, and beasts of burden (including oxen, donkeys and mules), were released from their work duties and decorated with flowers.Such ancient traditions are still alive today, virtually unchanged in their form and level of participation during the Palio dell'Assunta which takes place on 16 August in Siena.