SPRING

Palio of Ferrara

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Flags, drums, Renaissance costumes and eight contrade ready to compete: the Ferrara Palio brings the spirit of the Este tradition to the city’s streets and squares. The highlight comes on the last weekend of May, with the races in Piazza Ariostea, accompanied by historical parades, musicians and flag throwers.

Ferrara Palio: History, Contrade and Races

The Palio brings together Ferrara’s eight historic districts and boroughs, whose colours, symbols and traditions are at the heart of the event.

Parades, flags and drums build up to the races in Piazza Ariostea, offering you a different way to experience Ferrara: not only through its monuments, but through a tradition that continues to involve the whole city.

What are the origins of this event? The Ferrara Palio was officially established in the city statutes in 1279, although its origins date back to the 13th century. The early competitions were associated with celebrations for Saint George, Ferrara’s patron saint, and the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.

The races once took place along the old banks of the River Po, with men, women, horses and donkeys competing to win the pallium, the prized cloth awarded to the victors.

Over the centuries the tradition went through periods of change and interruption before being revived in the 20th century. Today, historical parades, flag-throwing competitions and races bring the world of the Este court back to the streets of Ferrara.

The Palio is not limited to the May races: throughout the year, the contrade organise events and activities. Check the events calendar to discover what’s coming up.

For the latest programme and practical information, visit the official Ferrara Palio website.