Major events include: special celebrations, festivals and events, art exhibitions, sport events, historical reenactments, folklore events, Carnivals, new museums and art spaces and more….

ART EXIBITIONS

EMPEROR CONSTANTINE – 313 d.c.

Milan – Palazzo Reale

Until 17 March 2013

www.mostracostantino.it

This exhibition celebrates the Edict of Constantine in 313 d.c. where he declares the legality of the profession of the Christian faith in the Roman Empire which took place in Milan (then called Mediolanum). Figurative art, armoury, imperial portraits, object of cult, with particular attention reserved for Constantine’s mother, St Helen.

THE DAYS OF ROME. THE AGE OF BALANCE

Rome - Musei Capitolini

Until 31 March 2013

http://english.romaexhibit.it/mostre/i-giorni-di-roma-let-dellequilibrio

Third event of the "The Days of Rome" series, the exhibition will explore the artistic production of the "golden age" of Roman art coinciding with the principalities of Trajan (98-117 AD) and Hadrian (117-138

AD), offering a representative overview of the works produced during those forty years, a period of artistic and political ferment, with a balance in the relationship among the Emperors, the Senate and the Army.

GIAMBATTISTA TIEPOLO, LIGHT, FORM, COLOUR, EMOTION

Codroipo (Friuli V.G.) – Villa Manin

Until 7 April 2013

www.villamanin-eventi.it

Several outstanding paintings by one of the most celebrated painter in Europe during the eighteenth century will adorn the sumptuous rooms of Villa Manin in Passariano, the spectacular residence of the last Doge of Venice, lavishly set in the vast Friulian

plain and widely acknowledged as one of the most important Venetian villas for beauty and historic significance. The carefully selected paintings of religious and secular subjects illustrate the entire artistic career of Giambattista Tiepolo (Venice

1696 - Madrid 1770), from his early productions as a young artist to the late mature works that firmly established him as a first-class painter.

MIRO’ POETRY AND LIGHT

Genoa – Palazzo Ducale

Until 17 April 2013

www.mostramiro.it

This exhibition dedicated to the Catalan painter is one of the biggest ever held in Italy, there are more than 80 works of art on display: paintings, bronzes, watercolours. Also on display are brushes, objects and original

tools belonging to the master.

GIUSEPPE DE NITTIS

Padua – Palazzo Zabarella

19 Jan – 26 May 2013

www.zabarella.it

120 masterpieces on loan from the most prestigious museums and public collections in Italy and France will be on view in the most important exhibition ever organized about one of the undisputed maestros of nineteenth-century European painting. The international stature enjoyed by De Nittis – together with Boldini the greatest of the Italiens de Paris – is due to the fact that he succeeded in bearing comparison with Manet, Degas and the Impressionists, with whom he shared not a language of painting, but the aspiration to revolutionize the very idea of painting itself. He also tackled the same issues as his French peers: landscape, portraiture and modern life, captured in De Nittis’ case in the streets of the two great cities that were the world capitals of art and cosmopolitanism in his day: Paris and London.

BRUEGHEL, THE FASCINATING WORLD OF FLEMISH ART

Rome - Chiostro del Bramante

Until 2 June 2013

www.chiostrodelbramante.it

This exhibition celebrates the Brueghel dynasty, a family of Flemish painters who made an indelible mark on the history of European art in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. More than 100 selected paintings and drawings provide a wonderful

opportunity to admire unique masterpieces: the beautiful snowy Northern European landscapes, rural scenes, village fetes and still lives, all of which strike us for their meticulous attention to detail. The works are reflections on human existence, bringing together the sacred and the profane, faith and superstition, the cult of beauty and the seductive qualities of the grotesque.

PIETRO BEMBO AND THE INVENTION OF THE RENAISSANCE

Padua – Palazzo del Monte

2 Feb – 19 May 2013

www.mostrabembo.it

Heralded as one of the most important art exhibitions in Padua in 2013, “Pietro Bembo e l’invenzione del Rinascimento” brings back to life, for a few months, the refined cultural atmosphere of the Italian Renaissance. After five centuries the great works of Pietro Bembo return to Padua within an Italian Renaissance exhibition: bronzes, coins, antique sculptures, gems, but also major works by Tiziano, Mantegna, Raffaello… masterpieces which the great patron of the arts gathered at his home during his stay in Padua in early 1500.

BORDERLINE: ARTISTS BETWEEN NORMALITY AND MADNESS

Ravenna – MAR Museum

17 Feb – 16 Jun 2013

www.museocitta.ra.it

This exhibition examines the link between psychological abnormalities and art, a subject which has often fascinated art critics and psychologists alike. In particular, together with established artists, the exhibition will also show works of several artists belonging to the Art Brut. On show works by: Bosch, Dali’, Goya, Basquiat, Ligabue among others.

TITIAN

Rome - Scuderie del Quirinale

1 Feb – 30 Jun 3013

www.scuderiequirinale.it

Indifferent to artistic fashions and trends, wrapped up in conveying the emotive truth of his portrayals, Titian was fated to go down in history as the greatest painter of his time and as the portrait painter of the rich and powerful throughout the known world. Saturated colours suggested depth and distances reconstructed like a mosaic, with small patches or touches and strokes of the brush, imperceptible marks that manage to vibrantly convey his figures' emotions.

FROM BOTTICELLI TO MATISSE

Verona – Palazzo della Gran Guardia

2 Feb – 13 Apr 2013

www.veronissima.com

The exhibition will open in Verona, in a prestigious location such as the Palazzo della Gran Guardia, right in front of the Arena. The heart of the exhibition is represented by a hundred works and examines the importance of portrait painting throughout the ages. Paintings by: Beato Angelico, Caravaggio, Botticelli, El Greco, Mantegna, Van Dyck, Rubens, Velasquez, Monet, Gaugin, Modigliani, Picasso, Bacon among others.

ITALIAN SUCCESS IN PARIS DURING THE IMPRESSIONISM TIME – MAISON GOUPIL

Rovigo – Palazzo Roverella

22 Feb – 23 Jun 2013

www.palazzoroverella.com

This exhibition borrows from the Musee Goupil in Bordeaux works of art, seldom seen outside France, of Italian artists operating during the Impressionism period in Paris and working under the patronage of the Maison Goupil. Works by Boldini, Capriani, Corcos, Mancini among others.

SPRINGTIME OF THE RENAISSANCE, SCULPTURE AND ARTS IN FLORENCE, 1400-1460

Palazzo Strozzi

21 March – 18 August 2013

www.palazzostrozzi.org

This exhibition sets out to illustrate the origin of what is still known today as the “miracle” of the Renaissance in Florence predominantly through masterpieces of sculpture, the form of figurative art in which it was first embodied. Visitors to the exhibition will be able to admire many Renaissance masterpieces, including works by Ghiberti, Donatello, Dello Delli, Filippo Lippi, Nanni di Bartolo, Agostino di Duccio, Michelozzo, Francesco di Valdambrino and Mino da Fiesole, in their newly-conserved splendour.

FIRE AND ICE, THE RUSSIAN AVANT-GARDE, SIBERIA AND THE EAST

Florence - Palazzo Strozzi

21 September 2012 – 19 January 2014

www.palazzostrozzi.org

This is the first international exhibition to examine the fundamental importance of the Oriental and Eurasian connection to Russian Modernism, following the destinies of Russia’s self-proclaimed “Barbarians” in their search for new sources of artistic inspiration. Emphasising the key role which radical Russian artists played in the development of Modern art over a century ago, the exhibition underlines their complex relationship with the Orient (both the Russian East and the Far East). Featuring artists are: Léon Bakst, Alexandre Benois, Pavel Filonov, Natalia Goncharova, Wassily Kandinsky, Mikhail Larionov, Kazimir Malevich among others.

“TOWARDS MONET”, LANDSCAPE PAINTING IN EUROPE AND AMERICA FROM

THE 17TH TO THE 2OTH CENTURY

Verona – Palazzo della Gran Guardia

26 Oct 2013 – 9 Nov 2014

www.lineadombra.it

Landscape painting is at the heart of this exhibition at the prestigious location of Palazzo della Gran Guardia, right in front of the Arena. 90 paintings will be on show following a chronological order from the 17th to the 20th century, paintings where the landscape, nature in all its forms take centre stage rather than being only a mere background.

Works by: Poussain, Van Ruisdael, Canaletto, Bellotto, Turner, Constable, Sisley, Pissarro, Manet, Cezanne, Gaugin and finally Monet among others.

NEW MUSEUMS AND ART SPACES/CITY CARDS

L’OFFICINA DELLE ZATTERE - NEW ART VENUE IN VENICE

www.officinadellezattere.it

L’Officina delle Zattere was inaugurated at the end of 2012 in the Fondamenta Nani, in front of the Squero di San Trovaso. It is the result of a careful restoration of a ‘50s building and covers an area of 600sqm, has 8 exhibition rooms, two rest areas and an open air space of 100sqm that can host sculpture exhibitions.

THE UFFIZI OPENS TWO NEW ROOMS

Florence

www.uffizi.org

The Uffizi Galleries have re-opened the Sala Niobe after a period of closure due to urgent restoration work together with two new rooms, one dedicated to works of Vasari and Allori and one be dedicated to painters of the 16th century.

THE “LANTERNA” (LIGHTHOUSE) RE-OPENS IN GENOA

www.liguri.org/lantern a/lighthouse.asp

A well known symbol of Genoa, La Lanterna (Lighthouse) was re-opened to the public. Anyone who wishes to get the best views of the city and the port can now climb the 172 steps to the first terrace. The Lanterna which stands 177 metres tall is clearly visible form 50km away and was built in 1543 has its own museum exhibiting objects relating to its function such as lamps and lenses as well as old films on Genoa and its port.

NEW ROMAN ARCHEOLOGICAL SITES NOW OPEN

Thanks to the efforts of the Touring Club Italia and its volunteers, visitors can now visit 3 archaeological sites previously closed to the public. The Villa di Massenzio is located on the Appian Way, it comprises a mausoleum dedicated to the Emperor’s son Romolo, the Casale Torlonia and the roman circus, one of the best preserved in Roman history. The Museo delle Mura is a new museum built within Porta San Sebastiano, one of the ancient Roman access ways into the city from the Aurelian Walls, from its terraces one can admire a breathtaking view over Rome. Finally, after 20 years of closure, the Sepolcro degli Scipioni (Scipio’s tomb) can now be visited, the monument was built in the 3rd century b.c. and contains the tombs of several members of the Scipio’s Consular family.

NEW! OPENING MUSEUM OF SCIENCE

Trento, July 2013

www.muse2012.eu

Countdown is now under way to the opening of MuSe, the new Trentino Science Museum designed by Renzo Piano, scheduled for July 2013. The great architect has integrated into his design the Trentino philosophy of glocal: act locally, think globally. The building being constructed incorporates a horizontal dimension, which refers to globalisation, in harmonious coexistence with the vertical dimension, a clear reference to the mountains. The highest part of MuSe will, in fact, be dedicated to the mountains: visitors will be pitched into the icy atmosphere of a three thousand metre peak and will experience the feeling of hurling down snowy slopes like an extreme skier or of leaping from the rock face on a paraglider.

NEW SPORT MUSEUM IN TURIN

www.olympicstadiumturin.org

The new Sport Museum is the first of its kind in Italy and is located in the Olympic Stadium in Turin which hosted the Winter Olympics in 2006. On display are more than 50 Olympic medals, 100 World Titles and thousands of Italian Championship trophies. The museum comprises 5 rooms on 2 floors offering as well as exhibits also films, multimedia tools etc.

NEW TREVISO CARD

www.trevisocard.it

Treviso, in the Veneto Region has launched his “Treviso card” to offer a comprehensive array of services in Treviso and its surroundings. The card has the validity of 24 (€12(, 48 (€17) or 72 (€22) hours and allows free access to The Municipality Museums, the Palladian Villas (Maser and Emo), the Canova museum, bike sharing service in Treviso, transport and discounts in restaurants, shops, wine shops, hotels, B&Bs etc.

FESTIVALS AND OTHER CULTURAL EVENTS

VERONA IN LOVE

Verona – 14-17 February 2013

www.veronainlove.it

Verona is the town where the romance of Romeo and Juliet unfolded. Verona in Love, held around Valentine's Day, sees red, heart-shaped lanterns illuminating the streets. Free concerts with a romantic theme take place on Piazza dei Signori Square.

63ª EDITION OF THE “FESTIVAL DELLA CANZONE ITALIANA”

Sanremo, Liguria

From 12th to 16th February2013

www.sanremo.rai.it

The Festival of the Italian song, also known as Festival di Sanremo, was born in 1951. Nowadays it is held in the Ariston Theatre of Sanremo. During the years, its formula has experienced various changes; however, it is essentially a contest in which different singers propose original songs (they must remain unreleased until the festival, otherwise they are disqualified), composed by Italian authors, which are voted by a jury or by the public, according to the editions. In over fifty years of history, the majority of famous Italian singers has taken part in this festival. The first editions of the Festival, from 1951 to 1954, were exclusively broadcasted by radio from the Sanremo Casino; subsequently the contest became mainly a television event. Currently the event is broadcasted live and in Eurovision by Raiuno. Rai Radiotelevisione Italiana - Tel. +39 06.3613719 - www.sanremo.rai.it

16° DOLOMITI SKI JAZZ

Val di Fiemme, Trentino

March 9th – 16th

www.dolomitiskijazz.com

Under the Spring sun, the most seductive landscapes of Val di Fiemme become the

setting of one of the most important music festival in the Alps: it’s the “Dolomiti Ski

Jazz”, a peculiar event combining the passions of music and skiing. The most beloved

European and world-famous American jazz musicians will be pouring on Val di

Fiemme’s slopes, pubs and theatres the notes of the 16th Dolomiti Ski Jazz festival.

Its formula proposes eight days of concerts and jam sessions, performed along the

skiing slopes and in the main towns of the valley. The magic notes of jazz invade

mountain malgas and huts, schools, pubs and night clubs. Black music from New Orleans marries the whitest

of environments, sealing a suggestive and fascinating union.

MAGGIO MUSICALE FIORENTINO FESTIVAL

Teatro Comunale – Florence – May 2 / June 24 2013

www.maggiofiorentino.com

This is one of the oldest traditional cultural events in Florence. The Stabile Orchestrale Fiorentina was born in

1928 and in 1933 it organized the first edition of the Festival, which, over the years grew to international fame.

The Festival has its own Ballet Company called Maggio Dance. Programme this year includes: Don Carlo,

Macbeth, The Rape of Lucretia, various concerts directed by Claudo Abbado and Daniel Baremboim

ARENA DI VERONA

Verona – June 14 / September 2013

www.arena.it

This year the Arena celebrates 100 years and the International

Opera Festival presents a rich calendar of events. The operas to

be performed are: Aida, Romeo et Juliet, Nabucco, Traviata,

Trovatore, Rigoletto, plus Requiem Mass , a Verdi Gala and

Placido Domingo’s Gala. Arena di Verona welcomes once

again artists and public in its magnificent setting.

RAVELLO CONCERTS, in Ravello, Amalfi Coast

Villa Rufolo, Ravello – April 3 / October 30 2013

www.ravelloarts.org

In Spring and Autumn, far from the Summer’s crowds, Ravello becomes the favourite destination for those

who love the silence of its Villas and its medieval churches. In that time, an audience of music lovers meet

every year to listen to the concerts held in the gardens and the rooms of Villa Rufolo, famous for having

inspired Wagner for the setting of his Parsifal.

CLASSICAL GREEK THEATRE FESTIVAL IN SIRACUSA

Siracusa, Sicily

11 May – 23 June 2013

www.indafondazione.org

Classical Greek theatrical representation in the magical atmosphere of

the Greek Theatre in Siracusa, this year’s programme includes: Oedipus

Rex and Antigone by Sophocles and Women in Parliament by

Aristophanes.

SAN GALGANO OPERA FESTIVAL

Chiusdino, Siena

June-August 2013 (dated tba)

www.festivalopera.it

This festival stands out for its programme, which focuses on the most significant opera and symphony

productions, and for its intent to enhance historical sites through high level shows. A fascinating combination

attracting thousands of spectators year after year.

BOLZANO DANZA

Bolzano – 15-27 July 2013

www.tanzbozen.it

The charming setting of Castel Firmiano hosts the Festival Bolzano Danza. The calendar includes opening

shows and side events alike.

59th PUCCINI FESTIVAL

Torre del Lago – July 12 / August 24 2013

www.puccinifestival.it

Torre del Lago hosts the Festival Puccini, created by Puccini himself, since 1930. The outdoor theatre, close

to Villa Mausoleo where the Master’s remains lie, is an amazing setting to enjoy the music of one of the most

outstanding and esteemed Italian artists worldwide. Operas on show in 2012 are: Cavalleria Rusticana, Il

Tabarro, Tosca, Turandot and Rigoletto.

ESTATE MUSICALE CHIGIANA

Siena, Montalcino, Asciano

July-August 2013

www.chigiana.it

The churches, abbeys and theatres of the province and city of Siena are the enchanting settings for the

Chigiana Summer, featuring maestros of international music. The yearly rich concert programme is bolstered

by students from the “Alto Perfezionamento” courses that are held in the historic seat of the Accademia during

the months of July and August, frequented each year by around 600 talented young musicians from more than

50 countries.

ROSSINI OPERA FESTIVAL

Pesaro, 10th August / 23rd August 2013

www.rossinioperafestival.it

This festival is entirely dedicated to the music and operas of

Goacchino Rossini, who was born in the Le Marche city of Pesaro.

This year will be the 34th edition of the festival and the programme

includes: new productions of “William Tell” and “ L’Italiana in

Algeri”, “L’occasione fa il ladro”, “Viaggio a Reims” and “ La Donna

del Lago”.

SFERISTERIO OPERA FESTIVAL

Macerata, August 2013 (programme tbc)

www.sferisterio.it

The Opera Festival is hosted almost entirely in the magnificent theatre-shaped Sferisterio, unique in its

architectural genre. Designed in 1823 by architect Ireneo Aleandri, it derives its name and its halfcircumference

shaped plan from the name of the game played inside: the “armband ball” or Pallone col

bracciale.

52th STRESA FESTIVAL

Stresa – 24 August - 7 September 2013

www.stresafestival.eu

Stresa Festival opens its doors to the public one more time with three themed

events, held in a number of venues ( Lake Maggiore, Lake Orta, Val

d’Ossola) on various dates.

MUSICA RIVA FESTIVAL

Riva del Garda (TN) –20 July – 3 August 2013 (programme tbc)

www.musicarivafestival.com

This is a music festival of the highest level entertaining the audience with performances and events and which

represent a fundamental meeting point for young musicians from around the world. The event puts in the

spotlight artists of diverse origins from classical music to dance and includes a competition dedicated to the

musician Riccardo Zandonai.

14° EDITION OF SUMMER JAMBOREE

Senigallia, Marche

3-11 August 2013

www.summerjamboree.com

This music Festival is dedicated to the music and culture in America in the ’40s and

’50s with live concerts of dj set swing, rock’n’roll, jive, doo-wop, rhythm’n’blues,

hill-billy e western swing .Stands will sell: juke box, hats, gadgets, guitars, vynils, CDs

and other objects of that era. There will also be a ‘40s and ‘50s classic cars show.

VENICE FILM FESTIVAL

Venice, 28 August – 7 Sept 2013 (programme tbc)

www.labiennale.org

Venice will host the 70th Edition of this film festival, one of the oldest and most famous. Thousands of

visitors, dozens of stars and hundreds of projections are crammed into ten days of fabulous festivities and

parties. The Festival is hosted at the Lido Island in the Venice Lagoon.

FESTIVAL OF THE MIND

Sarzana. 30 August – 1 September 2013

www.festivaldellamente.it

The first European festival that explores the theme of creativity and dynamic processes created by it in the

tireless research for understanding and growth, and takes place in the beautiful Medieval village of Sarzana in

Liguria. During the event there are meetings with artists, scientists and intellectuals to explain how the

processes of creative research can influence and change paths of life and thought.

MITO SETTEMBRE MUSICA

Turin and Milan

3 – 22 September 2013 – various locations (programme tbc)

www.mitosettembremusica.it

This is a major festival developed from the thirty years experience of Settembre Musica which connects Turin

and Milan, in a programme of refined and stirring concerts: the world’s best orchestras, baroque opera,

medieval music, the great maestros of contemporary music and the music from the most distant places; jazz,

open-air shows, night-time concerts...

FESTIVALETTERATURA

Mantova –4-8 September 2013

www.festivaletteratura.it

This will be the 17th edition of the Festival of Literature and offers cultural events, readings, shows, concerts,

all full of fun and originality.

SCIENCE FESTIVAL

Genova – 23 October – 3 November 2013

www.festivalscienza.it

The Festival of Science is an important appointment for the

diffusion of science. The exhibition aims to make accessible to a

wider public the many scientific subjects it deals with. The

variety of events offered encompasses scientific and artistic

exhibitions, workshops, conferences and shows and enables the

public to interact with this material in an enjoyable way. The

theme this year will be :Beauty.

SPORT

RBS SIX NATIONS RUGBY TOURNAMENT

Rome – Stadio Olimpico

www.rbs6nations.com

The most important European Rugby Tournament returns to Italy (Stadio Olimpico in Rome) this year with

the following matches:

Italy - Wales on 23 February 2013

Italy - Ireland on 16 March 2013

ROME MARATHON

Rome – March 17 March 2013

www.maratonadiroma.it

Since the early years of the twentieth century the roads and squares of the Eternal City

have seen some of the really mythical moments of the whole history of racing on foot.

It is an event that unites spirit and passion with alternative routes for nonprofessionals.

AMERICA’S CUP WORLD SERIES IN NAPLES

Naples

16-21 April 2013

The prestigious America’s Cup World Series returns to Naples in April this year. The Neapolitan coastline is

undergoing extensive regeneration and the races just one of the projects currently undertaken by the

authorities to help this process. The AC World Series features tight, short race courses designed to deliver

close racing for the fans on shore as well as TV audiences. The innovative regatta format includes a mix of

speed trials, head-to-head match racing and all-out fleet racing. www.americascup.com.

GIRO D’ITALIA

Starts on 4 May 2013 in Naples, ends in Brescia on 26 May 2013

www.gazzetta.it

The most important bicycle race in Italy, the Giro d'Italia, dates back to May

1909. This year the Giro will start in Naples and will terminate in Brescia on

26 May.

MILLE MIGLIA

16-19 May 2013

www.1000miglia.eu

The most beautiful vintage cars in the world chosen to participate in the race each year are selected under

rigorous guidelines. The 2013 edition plans a departure from Brescia, journeying through Lake Garda, Padua,

Ferrara, Terni, Rome and then back to Brescia via Siena, Florence, Modena and Cremona.

SYMPATEX BIKE FESTIVAL GARDA TRENTINO

Riva del Garda, Trentino

3 – 5 May 2013

www.bikefestival.it

This now classic appointment with the Bike Festival Garda Trentino is back in spring: a season opening for

bikers, who will find themselves next to stars of the mountain bike international scene. The program includes

exhibitions, shows, competitions, performances and stunts, testing of the industry novelties and lots of fun.

Approx. 20.000 visitors will arrive at Riva, to celebrate the beginning of the moutainbike season with the

European SYMPATEX BIKE Festival Garda Trentino powered by NISSAN . Centre of all activities is the

great Expoarea at the Palazzo Congressi, this one directly on the shore Lake Garda lies and is from the

picturesque port of Riva only few steps away.

88th EDITION OF THE PALIO DEL GOLFO

1-4 August 2013 La Spezia

www.paliodelgolfo.it

The thirteen hamlets of the Gulf compete to win the Palio aboard handmade boats built by local craftsmen,

with special characteristics that make them agile and fast. The sport competition is preceded by parades,

events, shows and meetings, which liven up the entire town for days; it finishes late in the evening on the first

Sunday of August, with fireworks displays.

BARCOLANA – SAIL RACE

Trieste – October 2013 (dates tbc)

www.barcolana.it

Every year more than two thousand sails meet in the Gulf of Trieste. The 16 mile

nautical route, Europe’s biggest sailing event and the only regatta in the world to set a

single start line for so many yachts.

TURIN MARATHON

Turin, 17 November 2013

www.turinmarathon.it

The Turin Marathon is a IAAF Golden Label Road Race. One of the most important 42km runs in the world

and destination for runners from all over the world, the marathon is a route full of history and tradition

showing all the atmosphere of a past which laid the foundations for constructing a united Italia. There will

concurrently be held the Stratorino, open to all, and the Junior Marathon, for children aged 0 to 16.

HISTORICAL RE-ENACTMENTS/FOLKLORE

CARNIVAL OF VENICE

Venice – 26 Jan – 12 Feb 2013

www.carnevale.venezia.it

During the world’s most famous masked “open city “ party, every corner of Venice

flourishes with chances to have fun and becomes a multicoloured series of shows,

parades, masks and much more. St Mark’s Square, the true centre of the party, is

transformed into a continuous workshop of colours, masks, music and shows hosting

Carnival’s traditional events such as “Flight of the Angel” , “Festa delle Marie” and

“La Colombina”. Palaces throughout the city host grand masked balls for those who

want to immerse themselves in the Serenissima’s festive history.

CARNIVAL OF VIAREGGIO

Viareggio –3,10,12,17 and 24 February 2013

www.viareggio.ilcarnevale.com

The most flamboyant of all the Italian Carnivals, famous for its political satire will hosts the traditional shows

of gigantic paper-mache figures on colourful floats. See above dates.

Other events include: big parties, sports events, slang theatre show, food stalls etc.

HISTORIC CARNIVAL OF IVREA

Ivrea - Piedmont 3,7,9,12 Feb 2013

www.storicocarnevaleivrea.it/English/

Traditional sounds of pipe and drum bands open the festival that sees the most spectacular event of the famous

Battle of the Oranges(12 Feb) Undoubtedly, this is the most spectacular event of the festivities representing

the fight for liberty, the symbol of the Ivrea Carnival. The orange battle is an incredible cultural and goliardic

heritage putting the festival on a national and international level.

FESTA DELLA SENSA

Venice – 12 May 2013

www.veneziamarketingeventi.it

In previous centuries La Sensa (Ascension Day) held an important role in the social and political life of

Venice. If, historically speaking, the Sensa is the result of the overlapping of civil and religious rites and

events through the ages, today it is read as an event to celebrate the intricate relationship that the city has

always had with the sea, both in commercial and architectural terms.

THE EXPLOSION OF THE CART

Florence - Easter Sunday – March 31 2013

Tradition says that during the first Crusade of 1096 the Florentine knight Pazzo de

'Pazzi was the first man who planted the banner of the Cross on battlements of

Jerusalem and as a gift he received some fragments of the Holy Sepulchre. Upon his

return to Florence the stones were used to start the Sacred Fire of Holy Saturday, and

were paraded through the city as homage to it in a richly decorated chariot. Nowadays,

on Easter Sunday a large wagon is pulled by white oxen in a procession in the streets of the centre of Florence

to the front of the cathedral.

THE PALIO OF FERRARA

Ferrara – May 4. 5, 11, 12, 18, 24, 25, 26 May 2013

www.paliodiferrara.it

The Palio of Ferrara is the most ancient event of its kind is the world dating back to 1279. It is peculiar for its

kind of ride that is joyful and so different from other warlike palii. This is a very important moment for the

city: all the Contrade participate wearing dress of different colours to gain the “palio”, but also and overall it

is a festivity to remember the Renaissance, a period during which Ferrara was really a capital.

FESTA DEI CERI (RACE OF THE CANDLES)

Gubbio – 15th May 2013

www.ceri.it

The Festa Dei Ceri is one of the oldest, if not the oldest

Italian folklore display. The festival has always played a

fundamental role in the heart of the local community. Its

origins are obscure, it is enough to know that there are two

basic hypotheses: one religious and one pagan. However, a

well-documented version sees the festival as a solemn act of

devotion on the part of the Eugubini towards their Bishop

Ubaldo Baldassini which started in 1160, the year of his

death. Since then, every 15 May, the eve of the day of mourning, the devotional offering to the patron Saint is

a fixed appointment for the people of Gubbio who take part in a great mystical procession, carrying candles

all around the town and up Mount Ingino (where since 11 September 1194 the body of Saint Ubaldo lies, in

the church which bears his name).

FESTA DEL BARBAROSSA

San Quirico d’Orcia, Siena

June 2013 (dates tba)

www.festadelbarbarossa.it

The four districts of Borgo, Canneti, Castello and Prato take on a medieval atmosphere in

memory of the meeting between Emperor Frederick I, known as Il Barbarossa, and Pope

Adrian IV’s papal legates, in 1155. San Quirico has celebrated this historic event for fifty

years with shows, period costume parades, and archery and flag throwing contests.

THE “BATTAGLIA DEI FIORI”

Ventimiglia, Liguria – 15 – 16 June 2013

www.festadifiori.it

Parade of floats covered with flowers, accompanied by bands and folkloristic groups. Floats of considerable

dimensions (up to 8mt x 4mt), with three-dimensional subjects pertaining the year’s theme, are decorated with

flowers petals, fixed one by one to the structure, with the technique of the mosaic. In a surface of one square

metre, up to 1000 flowers find a place, and for an entire float one needs about 120.000 petals! During the

festival, a proper battle takes place between the public and the walk-ons on the floats, by the mutual launch of

uncountable flowers. This is a bloodless and colourful fight, which is made even more festive by the

folkloristic bands, which will accompany the floats.

LUMINARA AND RACE OF SAN RANIERI

Lungarno – Pisa - June 16th/17th 2013

http://www.comune.pisa.it/manifestazioni-storiche/

On the occasion of the Feast of San Ranieri, Patron Saint of Pisa, celebrated

annually on 17 June, the enchantment of the illuminations of Saint Ranieri is

renewed on the streets running along the river Arno (the so-called Lungarni). In fact, following the ancient

tradition the Pisans celebrate their Patron Saint on the following day with the historical Regatta of San Ranieri

(Palio). There are more than a hundred thousand wax candles which at every edition are meticulously set in

smooth and white glasses and fixed then onto wooden white-painted frames, modelled in such a way as to

highlight the outline of the palaces, of the bridges, of the churches and of the towers reflecting the river.

MEDIEVAL FESTIVAL IN MONTERIGGIONI

Monteriggioni, Siena

5,6,7, 12. 13, 14 July 2013

www.monteriggionimedievale.com

The theme of the festival, is “On the path of the pilgrims: men of

honour, arms and faith”. The two weekends of the festival feature a

variety of events. As usual, the festival is distinguished by events

which bring the past to life: re-enactments of ancient military

techniques, medieval everyday life, crafts and trades, along with

jesters, acrobats, itinerant theatre performances and jugglers. The festival takes place in the wonderful

Monteriggioni castle, completing the medieval atmosphere. Open every day from the afternoon to late

evening.

FESTIVAL OF THE REDENTORE

Venice – 20-21 July 2013

www.veneziamarketingeventi.it

One of the most popular events in Venice is celebrated each year on the third Sunday of July. The festival

itself dates back to the year 1576, and is named after the church Redentore that was designed by Palladio and

resides on the island of Guidecca. Venice was suffering from a terrible plague, and the Republic's senate voted

to build a temple on the Guidecca Island in honour of Christ the Redeemer, and the Venetians promised to go

there every year on the third Sunday of July, if the plague stopped. Traditionally, the Venetians celebrate this

day by having dinner on the Saturday night while watching an incredible display of fireworks that light up the

skies over Venice for an hour or more.

HISTORICAL REGATTA

Venice – 1 September 2013

www.veneziamarketingeventi.it

The Grand Canal every year during the first Sunday of September becomes a theatre for one of the greatest of

Venetian events, the Historical Regatta, dating back to 1315 under the rule of doge Giovanni Soranzo. The

Historical Regatta starts out with the colourful procession on water, formed by the Bissone, the Bucintoro and

the boats of the Venetian rowing clubs, but also the women’s race on Mascarete and that of the youngsters

Pupperini.

QUINTANA OF FOLIGNO

Foligno – June and September 2013

www.quintana.it

Foligno, in the heart of Umbria and Italy, is famous worldwide for the

Quintana, the jousting tournament which in June and September renews the

challenge among the knights of its ten “sestieri”. An exciting challenge

where each knight, riding his own galloping horse, has to catch a series of

rings (which gradually become smaller and smaller) hanging from a

wooden statue called "Quintana". It is a great feast of people, colours and

passions, but also an accurate historical, scenic, iconographic and gastronomic reconstruction of the Italian

Baroque.

QUINTANA OF ASCOLI PICENO

Ascoli Piceno – 27 July and 4 August 2013

www.quintanadiascoli.it

Ascoli Piceno in the Marche region, hosts each year the historical Quintana, a re-enactment of Medieval

customs and practices. The participants are dressed in Medieval costumes and walk in procession along the

streets of the city in each “sestiere” (city quarter), followed by flag bearers and archers. In the restaurants of

the city one can taste typical food and wine and the festivities culminate with the blessing of the knights

participanting to the Palio by the city’s Bishop and the Palio itself.

THE PALIO OF SIENA

Siena – July 2nd/ August 16th 2013

www.comune.siena.it

Everyday life grinds to a halt as Siena celebrates its most ancient and

sacred ritual: horses and riders representing ten of Siena’s seventeen

contrade, or districts, race around the ring of tufo rock that covers the

Piazza del Campo. On 2 July and 16 August the long afternoon begins in

the heart of each contrada with the blessing of the horses, followed by the

historical parade to the piazza. Finally, there is the race itself: the

victorious contrada bears the banner triumphantly to the Provenzano Basilica for the “te deum” thanksgiving

to the Madonna ( 2 June) or to the Madonna Assunta (16 August).

CAVALCATA DELL’ASSUNTA in FERMO (Marche)

Fermo – Le Marche - August 15th 2013

www.cavalcatadellassunta.it

The ten “Contrade” (quarters) of the medieval town of Fermo participate with 650 men and women in

historical costumes to a horse race every year on 15 August (Ferragosto) in the centre of town. Flag bearers,

side shows and food and wine will entertain the visitors.

MEDIEVALIS, MEDIEVAL FESTIVAL

Pontremoli, Tuscany

22-25 August 2013

www.medievalis.org

“Medievalis” is the a Medieval festival that occurs every year in Pontremoli in

northern Tuscany. It re-enacts the concession of the status of free Municipality to

Pontremoli in 1226 by Emperor Frederick II. For 4 days Pontremoli re-lives this

event with groups of actors dressed and Medieval knights and dames, horse-drawn

carriages, merchants all dressed in traditional costumes. There will be duels, falcon

games, dinners with typical dishes of the 13th century and jousting tournaments and

more.

PALIO DEI NORMANNI DI PIAZZA ARMERINA

Piazza Armerina, Sicily – 12,13, 14 August 2013

www.feditgiochistorici.it

Plutia (the old Piazza Armerina) is home to the most ancient medieval event in Southern Italy which takes

place every year from August 12-14 in honour of Madonna Maria SS. Delle Vittorie. The event is a reenactment

of Sicily being conquered in 1060 by the Normans, led by Ruggero of Altavilla. At the end of the

event, the whole procession parades through the main streets, triumphantly displaying the city flag along with

its winners.

BRAVIO DELLE BOTTI

Montepulciano, Siena

Last Sunday of August , 25 August 2013

www.braviodellebotti.com

The eight contrade, or districts, of Montepulciano compete to win a painted banner

by rolling 80 kg barrels uphill along a 1,800 metre route. The route is chosen in

advance, and there are eight starting points, set out in two rows. Each contrada’s

barrel is placed in the position assigned to it by the lot that is drawn on the morning

of the race. As the bell tolls in the Town Hall bell tower the umpire gives the signal

for the race to start. Two men, the “pushers”, roll the barrels along the competition

route, winding up through the evocative streets of the old town centre of

Montepulciano to the Cathedral churchyard in the Piazza Grande. In the days

leading up to the race Montepulciano celebrates the traditional Candle Procession,

with a parade though the beautiful city streets in period costume, illuminated only by torchlight.

THE MACCHINA DI SANTA ROSA PROCESSION

Viterbo - September 3rd 2013

www.facchinidisantarosa.it

Each year the Medieval town of Viterbo in Lazio renews the festivities in honour of its Holy Patron. The

Trasporto della Macchina di Santa Rosa, a procession which takes place in the evening of September 3rd to

commemorate the relocation of the body of Saint Rosa from the Church of Santa Maria del Poggio to the

church of San Damiano (the Sanctuary of Santa Rosa). The Macchina di Santa Rosa is a gigantic structure,

nearly 30 metres high, which is carried through the streets by a large team of strong local men. Contests are

held to select designs for the Macchina, which is replaced every five years.

PALIO DI ASTI in Asti, Piedmont

Asti, 15 September 2013

www.palio.asti.it

One of the oldest Palio’s in Italy this colourful event sees 21 contestants

relive the ancient tradition of the Palio in the historic centre of this

charming Piedmont town, famous for its sparkling wine, the Asti

spumante. In the days preceding the race, visitors can enjoy many

collateral and preparatory events: the Palio of the Flag-wavers, the

colourful flea market, the trials of the jockeys on the field. The Palio itself

is a difficult challenge requiring all the participants’ strength and skill,

passion and courage as only one of them will win possession of the crimson banner with the coat of arms of

the city and the image of its Patron Saint.

THE FESTIVAL OF “MADONNA DELLA SALUTE”

Venice – November 21st 2013

www.comune.venezia.it Events and Festivals Section

The Festival of Health is perhaps the less spectacular of Venice festivities. In a religious context it is an event

dedicated to the Madonna in thanksgiving for her intercession which put an end to the plague which struck

Venice between the years 1630-1631.

Stefania Gatta

Press and communications office

Italian State Tourist Board – London

NB: Information correct at time of publication, Jan 2013

ART EXIBITIONS
AMERICANS IN FLORENCE: SARGENT AND THE AMERICAN IMPRESSIONISTS
Palazzo Strozzi, Florence
Until 15 Jul 2012
www.palazzostrozzi.org
The exhibition explores the American impressionists'
relationship with Italy, and with Florence in
particular, in the decades spanning the close of the
19th and dawn of the 20th centuries. There was a
marked upswing in the number of American artists
travelling to Europe after the Civil War ended in 1865, and the trend continued on into the early 20th
century. For the first time since recent exhibitions in France and England explored these American artists'
relationship with those two countries, this exhibition will be hosting the work of American painters who
embraced the artistic vocabulary of Impressionism and spent time in Italy.
THE IDEAL CITY, THE UTOPIA OF THE RENAISSANCE, in Urbino, Marche
Galleria Nazionale delle Marche – Palazzo Ducale, Urbino
Until 8 July 2012
www.mostracittaideale.it
The painted panel of The Ideal City in the Galleria
Nazionale delle Marche is one of the most
fascinating enigmas of the Italian Renaissance. We
do know neither why is was painted nor by whom,
yet it is a compendium of art, science and philosophic speculation, one of the highest achievements of the
civilization that flourished at Urbino in the second half of the fifteenth century, at the court of Duke
Federico da Montefeltro.
Alongside this panel, many other works are on display, about 50 in all, including paintings, sculptures,
wood inlays, drawings, medals, illuminated manuscripts and architectural treatises, which give us a global
picture of one of the high points in the history of this small capital city, set in the mountains and hills of
Montefeltro. There are works by Jacopo de Barbari, Piero della Francesca, Luca Signorelli, Fra’ Carnevale,
Domenico Veneziano, Sassetta, Mantegna, Perugino, Bramante and finally Raphael, who, having learnt his
art in the cultural climate of Urbino, was to become one of the great architects of 1500s.
LUX IN ARCANA. THE VATICAN ARCHIVE REVEALED
Capitoline Museum, Rome
Until 9 Sept 2012
www.museicapitolini.org
A hundred original and extremely precious documents dating from the 8th century BC to the 20th century of
the Vatican Secret Archive.
CANOVA AND THE DANCE, in Possagno near Treviso
Museo Canova, Possagno
Until 30 September 2012
www.marcatreviso.it
The Gipsoteca (The Plaster Cast Gallery) Museo Canova situated in Possagno houses the
charming exhibition of dancers.
You will get the chance to see the original plaster cast of the "Danzatrice con i cembali"
(the Dancer with cymbals), made for the Russian Ambassador Andrei Razumovslij.
CITY CARDS
TRAPANI WELCOME CARD
The Trapani Welcome card has been introduced to help the visitor to discover the Sicilian city of Trapani
and its territory. It costs €9.50 and offers a free ride on the cable car from Trapani to the delightful Unesco
town of Erice, unlimited public transport in Trapani for 3 days, 10% on the Ustica Lines ferries to visit the
nearby Egadi Islands, free entry to the Castle of Venus in Erice and further discounts on museum entries
and the Trapani music festival in July.
FESTIVALS, MUSIC AND OTHER EVENTS
RAVELLO CONCERTS, in Ravello, Amalfi Coast
Villa Rufolo, Ravello – April 4th / October 31st 2012
www.ravelloarts.org
In Spring and Autumn, far from the Summer’s crowds, Ravello
becomes the favourite destination for those who love the silence of its
Villas and its medieval churches. In that time, an audience of music
lovers meet every year to listen to the concerts held in the gardens and
the rooms of Villa Rufolo, famous for having inspired Wagner for the
setting of his Parsifal.
STRESA FESTIVAL
Stresa – June - September 2012
www.stresafestival.eu
Stresa Festival opens its doors to the public one more time with three themed events, held in
a number of venues on different dates.
ARENA DI VERONA
Verona – June 22nd / September 2nd 2012
www.arena.it
This will be the 90th edition of the International Opera
Festival. The 2012 calendar offers six operas: Tosca, Aida,
Turandot, Romeo et Juliet, Carmen, Don Giovanni which
welcomes once again artists and public in its magnificent
setting.
BOLZANO DANZA
Bolzano – 16-28 July 2012
www.tanzbozen.it
The charming setting of Castel Firmiano hosts the Festival Bolzano Danza. The calendar includes opening
shows and side events alike.
58th PUCCINI FESTIVAL
Torre del Lago – July 20th / August 24th 2012
www.puccinifestival.it
Torre del Lago hosts the Festival Puccini, created by Puccini himself, since 1930. The outdoor theatre,
close to Villa Mausoleo where the Master’s remains lie, is an amazing setting to enjoy the music of one of
the most outstanding and esteemed Italian artists worldwide. Operas on show in 2012 are: Tosca, La
Boheme, Madama Butterfly among others.
ROSSINI OPERA FESTIVAL
Pesaro, 10th August / 23rd August 2012
www.rossinioperafestival.it
This festival is entirely dedicated to the music and operas of Goacchino Rossini, who
was born in the Le Marche city of Pesaro. This year will be the 33rd edition of the
festival and two new productions will be presented: “Ciro in Babilonia” and “Il Signor
Bruschino”, “Viaggio a Reims”, “Tancredi” “ Matilde di Shabran”.
SFERISTERIO OPERA FESTIVAL
Macerata 20 July – 12 August 2012
www.sferisterio.it
The Opera Festival is hosted almost entirely in the magnificent theatre-shaped Sferisterio, unique in its
architectural genre. Designed in 1823 by architect Ireneo Aleandri, it derives its name and its halfcircumference
shaped plan from the name of the game played inside: the “armband ball” or Pallone col
bracciale. This year the operas La Traviata, La Boheme and Carmen will be performed.
MUSICA RIVA FESTIVAL
Riva del Garda (TN) – 17 July – 4 August 2012
www.musicarivafestival.com
This is a music festival of the highest level entertaining the audience with performances and events and
which represent a fundamental meeting point for young musicians from around the world. The event puts in
the spotlight artists of diverse origins from classical music to dance and includes an opera competition
dedicated to the musician Riccardo Zandonai.
VENICE FILM FESTIVAL
Venice, 28 August – 8 Sept 2012
www.labiennale.org
Venice will hosts the 68th Edition of this film festival, one of the oldest and most famous. Thousands of
visitors, dozens of stars and hundreds of projections are crammed into ten days of fabulous festivities and
parties. The Festival is hosted at the Lido island in the Venice Lagoon.
FESTIVAL OF THE MIND
Sarzana. August 31st / September 2nd 2012
www.festivaldellamente.it
The first European festival that explores the theme of creativity and dynamic processes created by it in the
tireless research for understanding and growth, and takes place in the beautiful Medieval village of Sarzana
in Liguria. During the event there are meetings with artists, scientists and intellectuals to explain how the
processes of creative research can influence and change paths of life and thought.
TANOTANGO FESTIVAL IN NAPLES
3-9 September 2012
www.tanotango.it
This festival deeply links Naples and Buenos Aires, the
Neapolitan song and the Tango. The Tanotango Festival
includes photos and painting exhibitions, conventions,
workshops, shows, performances, concerts and dancing
nights. Some of the most celebrated Argentinian tango artists
together with Neapolitan artists will perform with the
backdrop of the city of Naples: castles, wonderful terraces
on the sea, old palazzos, monumental villas and dance halls will provide the scenery for this extraordinary
event.
MITO SETTEMBRE MUSICA
Turin and Milan
September 2012 – various locations (programme tbc)
www.mitosettembremusica.it
6th year of this major festival developed from the thirty years experience of Settembre Musica which
connects Turin and Milan, in a programme of refined and stirring concerts: the world’s best orchestras,
baroque opera, medieval music, the great maestros of contemporary music and the music from the most
distant places; jazz, open-air shows, night-time concerts...
FESTIVALETTERATURA
Mantova –September 5th / 9th 2012
www.festivaletteratura.it
This will be the 16th edition of the Festival of Literature and offers
cultural events, readings, shows, concerts, all full of fun and originality.
FOLKLORE AND HISTORICAL EVENTS
THE “BATTAGLIA DEI FIORI”
Ventimiglia, Liguria – June 18th/19th 2012
www.battagliadifiori.com
Parade of floats covered with flowers, accompanied by bands and folkloristic groups. The cultural roots of
the Battaglia dei Fiori are buried in the traditional rites dedicated to the awakening of nature and in the
carnival parades of the Italian Riviera and of the Provence of the 18th century. Ventimiglia, as from the
very first post war years, progressively personalized its parade, until reaching the modern version. Floats of
considerable dimensions (up to 8 m x 4 m), with three-dimensional subjects pertaining the year’s theme,
are decorated with flowers petals, fixed one by one to the structure, with the technique of the mosaic. In a
surface of one square metre, up to 1000 flowers find a place and for an entire float one needs about 120.000
petals! During the festival, a proper battle takes place between the public and the walk-ons on the floats, by
the mutual launch of uncountable flowers. This is a bloodless and colourful fight, which is made even more
festive by the folkloristic bands, which accompany the floats.
LUMINARA AND RACE OF SAN RANIERI
Lungarno – Pisa - June 16th/17th 2012
http://www.comune.pisa.it/manifestazioni-storiche/
On the occasion of the Feast of San Ranieri, Patron Saint of Pisa, celebrated
annually on 17 June, the enchantment of the illuminations of Saint Ranieri is
renewed on the streets running along the river Arno (the so-called Lungarni).
In fact, following the ancient tradition the Pisans celebrate their Patron Saint
on the following day. There are about seventy-thousand wax candles which at every edition are
meticulously set in smooth and white glasses and fixed then onto wooden white-painted frames, modelled
in such a way as to exalt the outline of the palaces, of the bridges, of the churches and of the towers
reflecting the river.
FESTIVAL OF THE REDENTORE
Venezia – July 14th/15th 2012
www.comune.venezia.it
Events and Festivals section
One of the most popular events in Venice is celebrated each year on the third Sunday of July. The festival
itself dates back to the year 1576, and is named after the church Redentore that was designed by Palladio
and resides on the island of Guidecca. Venice was suffering from a terrible plague, and the Republic's
senate voted to build a temple on the Guidecca Island in honour of Christ the Redeemer, and the Venetians
promised to go there every year on the third Sunday of July, if the plague stopped. Traditionally, the
Venetians celebrate this day by having dinner on the Saturday night while watching an incredible display of
fireworks that light up the skies over Venice for an hour or more.
HISTORICAL REGATTA
Venezia – September 2nd 2012
www.comune.venezia.it
Events section
The Grand Canal every year during the first Sunday of September becomes a theatre for one of the greatest
of Venetian events, the Historical Regatta, dating back to 1315 under the rule of doge Giovanni Soranzo.
The Historical Regatta starts out with the colourful procession on water, formed by the Bissone, the
Bucintoro and the boats of the Venetian rowing clubs, but also the women’s race on Mascarete and that of
the youngsters Pupperini.
QUINTANA OF FOLIGNO
Foligno – June and September 2012
www.quintana.it
It is considered by tradition the 'centre of the world'. Foligno, in the heart of
Umbria and Italy, is famous worldwide for the Quintana, the jousting
tournament which in June and September renews the challenge among the
knights of its ten wards. An exciting challenge where each knight, riding his
own galloping horse, has to catch a series of rings (which gradually become
smaller and smaller) hanging from a wooden statue called "Quintana". It is a
great feast of people, colours and passions, but also an accurate historical,
scenic, iconographic and gastronomic reconstruction of the Italian Baroque.
THE PALIO OF SIENA
Siena – July 2nd/ August 16th 2012
www.ilpalio.org
The Palio of Siena is the most famous popular Italian events. It takes place every year on July 2 and
August 16. The Palio is run to celebrate the miraculous apparition of the Virgin Mary near the old houses
that belonged to Provenzano Salvani. The holy apparition was therefore called "Madonna di Provenzano"
in whose honour the very first Palio was run on August 16, 1656.
CAVALCATA DELL’ASSUNTA in FERMO (Marche)
Fermo – Le Marche - August 15th 2012
www.cavalcatadellassunta.it
The ten “Contradas” (quarters) of the medieval town of Fermo participate with 650 men and women in
historical costumes to a horse race every year on 15 August (Ferragosto) in the centre of town. Flag
bearers, side shows and food and wine will entertain the visitors.
PALIO DEI NORMANNI DI PIAZZA ARMERINA
Piazza Armerina, Sicily - August 12th/14th 2012
www.feditgiochistorici.it
Plutia (the old Piazza Armerina) is home to the most ancient medieval event in
Southern Italy which takes place every year from August 12-14 in honour of
Madonna Maria SS. Delle Vittorie. The event is a re-enactment of Sicily being
conquered in 1060 by the Normans, led by Ruggero of Altavilla. At the end of the
event, the whole procession parades through the main streets, triumphantly
displaying the city flag along with its winners.
TRANSPORTATION AND THE MACHINE OF SANTA ROSA
Viterbo - September 3rd 2012
www.facchinidisantarosa.it
Each year Viterbo renews the festivities in honour of its Holy Patron. The Trasporto della Macchina di
Santa Rosa, a procession which takes place in the evening of September 3rd to commemorate the relocation
of the body of Saint Rosa from the Church of Santa Maria del Poggio to the church of San Damiano (the
Sanctuary of Santa Rosa). The Macchina di Santa Rosa is a gigantic structure, nearly 30 metres high, which
is carried through the streets by a large team of strong local men. Contests are held to select designs for the
Macchina, which is replaced every five years.
PALIO DI ASTI in Asti, Piedmont
Asti, September 16th 2012
www.palio.asti.it
One of the oldest Palio’s in Italy this colourful event sees 21 contestants
relive the ancient tradition of the Palio in the historic centre of this
charming Piedmont town, famous for its sparkling wine, the Asti
spumante. In the days preceding the race, visitors can enjoy many
collateral and preparatory events: the Palio of the Flag-wavers, the
colourful flea market, the trials of the jockeys on the field. The Palio
itself is a difficult challenge requiring all the participants’ strength and
skill, passion and courage as only one of them will win possession of the crimson banner with the coat of
arms of the city and the image of its Patron Saint.
Stefania Gatta
Press and communications
Italian State Tourist Board