Events in Grosseto and the surrounding area: detail
From August 14 2008 to August 14 2008
The Donkey Palio in Roccatederighi - Grosseto
The first palio was held in Roccatederighi on August 14, 1295 and has been contended by the city of Roccatederighi's five districts (Torre, Ventosa, Nobili, Tramonto, Corso), in the province of Grosseto ever since.
The palio recreates the atmosphere of Medieval Tuscany with period costumes and games. Historically, the "giostra dei sestieri" has been held on the eve of the feast of the Assumption with the Palio. This palio stands out for the use of donkeys rather than horses, traditionally used in all other tournaments. The Palio is named after the donkeys that are randomly drawn by the five remaining districts. Formerly six, the Tufolino district has now been incorporated in the Torre district.
All the districts parade in their typical Medieval dress in a historic procession the day before the palio. The jockeys parade on the drawn donkeys to end the procession.
This traditional palio also unveils a special aspect in that the tournament is a series of eliminatory rounds and not just a single race. The thrill-packed eliminatory rounds include false starts, skittish donkeys and jockey feuds.
The winning district is awarded the prestigious palio drape, partying all night while the losers look on.
Information: Roccatederighi Tourist Office Telephone/Fax: 0564 567244 E - mail: proloco_rocca@hotmail.it
When: August 14, 2008.
Nozio © 2008
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