From 30 August to 6 September 2026, Terra del Sole will once again celebrate one of the most cherished traditions in its history: the Palio di Santa Reparata.
For a week, the Renaissance fortress town comes alive with ceremonies, social gatherings, events for young people and activities leading up to the great contest between the two districts, Fiorentino and Romano, on Sunday 6 September.
THE PROGRAMME
30 August – Blessing of the Palio and Presentation of the Candles
The week of the Palio begins with the Blessing of the Palio and the Presentation of the Candles at the Altar of Santa Reparata, accompanied by the evocative celebration of Holy Mass in Latin.
3 and 4 September – Days dedicated to young people
Two days dedicated to the younger generation, who are involved in preparing for the event by painting the pavements flanking the Piazza d’Armi, alongside numerous activities and games organised by the two competing districts.
4 September – Guided tour of Terra del Sole
‘Terra del Sole at its best’, led by Chiara Macherozzi
History, architecture, art, tradition and genuine passion.
This is the Terra del Sole Festival, in honour of its patron saint.
Meeting point: 9.00 pm under the loggia of Palazzo Pretorio (Piazza d’Armi, Terra del Sole)
Price: €8 to be paid on the spot, for those aged 14 and over
The guided tour will take place even in the event of rain
Booking is compulsory at least two days before the event by calling +39 350 5193970.
5 September – Propitiatory dinners in the neighbourhoods
On the eve of the contest, the two neighbourhoods come together for the traditional propitiatory dinners, moments of conviviality and celebration that bring together residents, families and supporters as they await the big day of the Palio.
6 SEPTEMBER – Palio Day
9.30 am: Bell Concert
From 10.00 am, the Historic Market will be held along the streets of Terra del Sole.
“Terra del Sole at its best”, curated by Chiara Macherozzi
History, architecture, art, tradition and genuine passion.
This is the Terra del Sole Festival, in honour of its patron saint.
Meeting point: 10.00 am beneath the loggia of Palazzo Pretorio (Piazza d’Armi, Terra del Sole)
Price: €8 to be paid on the day, for those aged 14 and over
The guided tour will take place even in the event of rain
Booking is compulsory at least two days before the event by calling +39 350 5193970.
At 4.00 pm, the most eagerly awaited moment: the crossbow contest between the Florentine and Roman districts. The crossbowmen will compete to win the precious Palio banner, painted each year by a different artist.
The contest will be preceded by historic processions in period costume, which will wind their way through the streets of the citadel until they reach the spectacular Piazza d’Armi.
This will be followed by the inauguration of the Grand Ducal Commissioner, a historical figure who administered Terra del Sole on behalf of Florence from 1579 to 1772. Each year, the role is symbolically entrusted to the mayor of a municipality belonging to the territory of the ancient Florentine Romagna.
A TRADITION THAT LIVES ON IN THE VILLAGES
The Palio di Santa Reparata has its roots in the history of Terra del Sole, a fortress town founded in 1564 at the behest of Cosimo I de’ Medici and the capital of the ancient Florentine Romagna.
The crossbow shooting competitions are inspired by the ancient contests that took place during festivals, fairs, religious celebrations and solemn occasions. In particular, the Palio evokes the tradition of the installation of the Grand Ducal Commissioner, documented in the Municipal Historical Archive.
But it is above all through the Florentine and Roman neighbourhoods that this history continues to live on.
Year after year, the Florentine and Roman districts prepare for the challenge, preserving their colours and traditions whilst involving new generations. The rivalry, passion and support for one’s own district thus become part of an event that brings together history and the present.
The 63rd Palio di Santa Reparata, organised by Pro Loco Terra del Sole, is an opportunity to immerse oneself in the Renaissance atmosphere of the fortress town and experience at first hand a tradition rooted in neighbourhood pride, passion and a sense of belonging.