Leonessa, a mountain resort renowned throughout the region, is, in winter, the ideal destination for ski lovers, whereas, in summer, it offers the possibility of hiking along the trails of the Rieti Mountains, not far from Mount Terminillo, amidst woods, streams, and green slopes. Every year, during the last weekend of June, the town acquires a new look, hosting one of most beautiful historical events in Italy, the Palio del Velluto. Thanks to this reenactment, visitors will be able to relive the glittering atmosphere of the Renaissance period. The protagonist of the Palio is Margaret of Austria, daughter of Charles V and Lady of Leonessa, who visited the village in 1541. The race is held among six town districts, called Sesti, who compete in order to win the red velvet banner: Corno, Croce, Forcamelone, Poggio, Terzone, and Torre. Their names derive from their respective castles, around which the town developed under Charles of Anjou in 1278. During the four-day event, the Sesti rediscover the pride of their ancient roots.
The Corsa dell’Anello – Photo FB Il Palio del Velluto – Official Page
The most awaited moment is undoubtedly the Sunday equestrian races, the Giostra del Velluto and the Corsa del’Anello. The new Madonna, awarded to the winning district, is adorned with a necklace in the six colours of the six districts.
The Historical Procession during the Palio del Velluto
In addition to the equestrian race, many events enliven the festival, such as the Historical Procession with over 600 participants dressed in finely crafted robes, pearls, and layers of exquisite fabrics.
A Challenge Between the Sesti of Leonessa
During the festival, popular challenges among the inhabitants of the different Sesti also take place.
The Bread Competition in Leonessa – Photo from the Palio del Velluto Facebook Page – Official Page
The most characteristic is the Bread Competition. Six women, one from each district, compete against each other in a timed race, carrying on their head a board with six loaves of bread weighting one kilo each. The goal is to overcome an obstacle course and to arrive at destination with the bread intact.
A moment during the Palla Grossa competition – Photo by Il Palio del Velluto FB – Official Page
Another very important event is the Palla Grossa Tournament. The game, very similar to the Florentine soccer, consists of two teams of five men and women each, who, in a 20-minute match, try to score goals using their hands, arms, head, bodies, or feet.
The Drum Competition – Photo by Il Palio del Velluto FB – Official Page
The Palio del Velluto of Leonessa is accompanied by music, dance, and flag-wavers’ performances, as well as tastings of several local products, served in taverns, according to the traditional 16th-century style.