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The Giostra del Saracino – Giostra della Madonna del Conforto is an ancient medieval jousting tournament held twice a year in the historic Piazza Grande of Arezzo, Italy.
This exciting event takes place on the first Sunday of September and features the four city Quarters of Arezzo – Porta Crucifera, Porta del Foro, Porta Sant’Andrea, and Porta Santo Spirito – competing against each other.
Each Quarter is represented by two knights who gallop towards the Buratto, a revolving armor-plated dummy, attempting to hit its target with a lance. The pair of knights with the highest score wins the competition. In addition to the thrilling jousting tournament, the event also includes a historic procession of 350 costumed participants and 27 horses parading through the city center, ending at Piazza Grande.
Accompanied by flag throwers and musicians, the procession sets the stage for the main event. The sister event, Giostra di San Donato, honors Saint Donatus and is held on the penultimate Saturday of June.
Visitors can expect a lively atmosphere and a glimpse into medieval times during these unique events.
The Giostra del Saracino has its roots in medieval times and has become a significant cultural event in the Arezzo territory. Even Dante Alighieri mentioned the event in Canto XXII of Inferno, describing the atmosphere and excitement.
The jousting competition was briefly interrupted during the Second World War but has since been held regularly every year.
The event honors Arezzo’s patron saint, Saint Donatus, with the sister event, Giostra di San Donato, taking place in June.
The second event, Giostra della Madonna del Conforto, is dedicated to the city’s protectress, Our Lady of Comfort.
The Lancia d’Oro, a trophy made of walnut, basswood, or maple, is awarded to the winning Quarter, celebrating the city’s rich history and traditions.
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An opportunity for pilgrims, seekers, and adventurers to take an inward journey alongside the spirit of St Francis.
A Toscana, non-religious non-profit to share the discovery and preservation of Franciscan tradition, Nature, and Art.
Disclosure: We may receive affiliate compensation for some of the links on this site if you decide to purchase linked items, helping us to maintain our trails and provide services to our community of pilgrims. Read our affiliate disclosure in our privacy policy.
By entering your email, you get the Quick Start emails, free Pilgrim Essentials Kit, and more resources, and agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.
An opportunity for pilgrims, seekers, and adventurers to take an inward journey alongside the spirit of St Francis.
A Toscana, non-religious non-profit to share the discovery and preservation of Franciscan tradition, Nature, and Art.
Disclosure: We may receive affiliate compensation for some of the links on this site if you decide to purchase linked items, helping us to maintain our trails and provide services to our community of pilgrims. Read our affiliate disclosure in our privacy policy.
