The great medieval re-enactment of Narni among the three Terzieri
The Corsa all'Anello is the defining festival of Narni (province of Terni), in the heart of Umbria. For almost three weeks, the medieval village transforms into a time machine that transports visitors back to the 14th century, amidst ladies and knights, flag-wavers, drummers, and costumed townspeople. Its roots go back to the city statutes of 1371, which already regulated the ring race held in honor of the patron saint, San Giovenale.
The city is divided into three historical Terzieri – Mezule, Fraporta, and Santa Maria – which compete for the Palio. The heart of the event is the equestrian joust at the Campo de li Giochi: nine knights, three from each Terziere, gallop their horses to pierce a ring only 10 centimeters in diameter with their lances, suspended from a mechanical arm. It is a test of skill and precision that requires courage and a steady hand.
The Corsa all'Anello is much more than a competition: it is a journey of rituals, parades, exhibitions, theatrical performances, and taverns where you can taste traditional dishes. The organizing association focuses on an authentic Middle Ages, based on historical, cultural, and anthropological foundations, so much so that it has established a historical-scientific committee. The re-enactment is among the major historical festivals of Umbria and is an unmissable event for those who want to experience history, not just watch it.
The 58th edition of the Corsa all'Anello (April 23 - May 10, 2026) featured a double tribute: to Giovanni Boccaccio, on the 650th anniversary of his death, with the 14th century of the Decameron as the guiding theme, and to San Giovenale, the city's patron saint, on the 1650th anniversary of his death. Over 800 participants – artisans, nobles, archers, and townspeople – animated the historic center for almost three weeks.
The re-enactment, set in 1371, saw the three Terzieri of Mezule, Fraporta, and Santa Maria compete. The final challenge at the Campo de li Giochi, on Sunday, May 10, was won by the Santa Maria Terziere (225 points), ahead of Mezule (195) and Fraporta (165).
Over one hundred events including cultural meetings, theatrical performances, exhibitions, drummer and flag-waver performances, religious rites, and the opening of the Terzieri taverns with medieval cuisine (In Taberna).
Full program: corsallanello.it.
Narni (TR), historic center and Campo de li Giochi. The final joust takes place at the Campo de li Giochi.
Admission to the historic center and most events is free. For the equestrian joust at the Campo de li Giochi and some evening events, advance tickets are available on Vivaticket. Information: tel. +39 0744 726233, [email protected].
Narni is reachable from the Narni-Amelia exit of the E45/Flaminia highway; Narni-Amelia station is served by trains on the Rome-Ancona line.
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Campo de li Giochi