Celebrations in Honor of Saint Lawrence the Martyr

The patronal feast of Zagarolo

The Celebrations in Honor of Saint Lawrence the Martyr are the most cherished summer event in Zagarolo, a town in the Metropolitan City of Rome Capital nestled between the Prenestini Mountains and the Castelli Romani, in the Lazio region. Every year, around August 10th—the day dedicated to the patron saint—the historic center comes alive for four days of religious rites, folklore, food and wine, and performances, drawing both locals and visitors into the alleys and squares of the village.

The Palio della Graticola and the districts

The heart of the event is the Palio della Graticola, named after the instrument of Saint Lawrence's martyrdom. The competition pits the four town districts—Colle, Terra, Borgo, and Forense—against each other in tests of skill, games, and tournaments. Challenges begin at the Elio Mastrangeli sports field, which also hosts the “Memorial Don Ubaldo” 5-a-side football tournament, before moving into the village with flag-wavers, musicians, and costumed crossbowmen.

The Night of the Contesa

Among the most anticipated moments is the Notte della Contesa, featuring the spectacular Contesa della Macchina in both men's and women's versions: a test of strength and coordination rooted in Zagarolo's popular tradition that fuels the rivalry between the districts.

The religious dimension

Alongside the secular festivities, devotion to the patron saint remains central. The program includes Vespers and Holy Masses at the Church of Saint Lawrence the Martyr and, on August 9th, the solemn Holy Mass in Piazza Guglielmo Marconi followed by the procession with the bust of the Saint, accompanied by the town band. The community thus renews a bond of faith that has lasted for centuries.

Calici di Stelle and the August nights

The night of August 10th, the night of Saint Lawrence, coincides with the wine event Calici di Stelle—promoted by the Città del Vino circuit and organized by the Pro Loco—where tastings of local wines and typical products are combined with stargazing. To complete the evenings, there are cover band concerts in the square, food and wine stands, children's entertainment, and fireworks displays.

A village to discover

Experiencing the Saint Lawrence celebrations is also an opportunity to discover Zagarolo, with its Palazzo Rospigliosi and famous hanging garden, medieval alleys, and the winemaking tradition of the Castelli Romani. An event organized by the Municipality of Zagarolo together with the Confraternity of Saint Lawrence, the Pro Loco, and local associations.