Horse races in Tuscany – Palio of Fucecchio, Siena’s ancestor

Horse races in Tuscany – Palio of Fucecchio, Siena’s ancestor

Palio delle Contrade in Fucecchio dates back to the XIIIth century, as an historical reenactment of a bloody battle that took place in Fucecchio. This is a small medieval town between Pisa and Florence, at short distance from San Miniato, where the famous truffles are being sought. The last race was run in 1863 and nowadays this horse race is an important event for the local commnity, that participate the race with great pathos and enthusiasm.
The 12 contrade, some of which are strong enemies, fight each other to win the socalled ‘cencio’, a piece of fabric decorated by an artist for the occasion. This palio is very similar to the more famous one in Siena, both for the ceremonies and events proceeding the race and the ‘Mossa’, which gives start to the race.
The Palio delle Contrade is also famous also for its costume parade, made of more than 1000 figures dressed up with stunning Renaissance dresses. All the rich dresses are hand made by local tailors and very much refined in details and attention to the medieval fashion.
The peculiarity of this parade is that figures act in different scenes, recalling of artisans’works, daily life events or activities, historical special celebrations. Scrolling down our gallery, you will have the chance to see the art of dying fabrics, making perfumes, medical remedies, but also a wedding, visit of the Pope and also war machines, falconry…

The event takes place the 3rd week of May and starts at 9am with the costume parade walking trough the city and ending in Piazza Vittorio Veneto. You can have lunch in one of Contrada palaces. We stayed at Contrata Sant’Andrea, which has recently restored a medieval building in the historical centre, by the Collegiata church. The Palio takes place in the socalled ‘Buche’, which is a sort of garden ring. You need to buy tickets to access the ring. The race starts at 4pm and lasts a few hours…as in the habit of locals, bring some cloths or covers and lay on the grass, enjoying the show!