Every year, when the June sun warms the waters of the lakes and the ancient stones of Piazza Conte Rosso, Avigliana is transported back to 1389. The Palio Storico is not merely a competition, but a collective ritual that transforms the ‘City of Lakes’ into a living stage filled with ladies, knights, flag-wavers and noble families.
The event celebrates the visit of Valentina Visconti, daughter of the Duke of Milan, who was a guest of her cousin Amedeo VII of Savoy, the famous Conte Rosso.
Saturday evening is when the historical re-enactment really gets underway, turning the anticipation of the race into a true community celebration.
The event officially begins with the Mayor presenting the Keys to the City to the Red Count.
The Medieval Taverns of the Districts at the Palio Field, where visitors can sample traditional dishes, serve as a prelude to the theatrical performance.
Before the taverns fill with revellers, Saturday afternoon and evening feature the district archers, the district drummers and the traditional Tug-of-War, where the district residents test their strength.
The most eagerly awaited moment is on Sunday afternoon, when the adrenaline rises in the Campo del Palio. Here, the seven districts (Nuovo, Sant’Agostino, Drubiaglio, San Pietro, Paglierino, Pertusera and Vecchio) compete in the spectacular bareback horse race.
The full programme will be available shortly