Corsa dei Capitani

The Corsa dei Capitani in Cutigliano

The Corsa dei Capitani is one of the most heartfelt and appreciated mountain running races of the Tuscan summer. It takes place in Cutigliano, a village in the Pistoia Apennines that is now part of the Municipality of Abetone Cutigliano, in the province of Pistoia, in the heart of the Tuscan mountains. Every July, hundreds of runners and trail enthusiasts reach this stone village to tackle a challenging and fascinating route, immersed in the dense woods and landscapes of the Apennines.

The route

The competitive race covers a route of approximately 14.3 km that starts from Cutigliano and climbs to the highest point of the track, La Cuccola, at an altitude of 1040 meters. The route alternates climbs and descents along the trails surrounding the village, offering evocative glimpses of the Pistoia mountains. The finish line is set in Piazza Catilina, in the historic center of the village. Alongside the competitive race, a non-competitive walk of about 6 km is offered, designed for those who prefer trekking and walking in nature, so that the day is truly open to everyone, athletes and families alike.

A race that tells a story

The event takes its name from the Palazzo dei Capitani della Montagna, one of the symbols of Cutigliano. The building was constructed starting in 1377 to house the Captain of the Mountain, the official sent from Florence to govern the communities of the high Pistoia mountains. Its facade is covered with dozens of heraldic coats of arms left by the captains who succeeded one another over the centuries. Running the Corsa dei Capitani therefore means crossing a territory steeped in history, where sporting tradition intertwines with the identity of the village and the Pistoia mountains.

A celebration of sport and the village

Organized by the Pro Loco Cutigliano with the technical collaboration of ASD Silvano Fedi Pistoia and the provincial UISP Athletics League, the Corsa dei Capitani is not just a race: it is a village festival that brings Cutigliano to life in the height of summer. Over the years, the race has also hosted stages of the regional UISP mountain running championship, confirming itself as a reference point for running in the Apennines. The atmosphere, between the cheering along the trails and the awards ceremony in the square, makes this day a perfect opportunity to discover Cutigliano and the mountain side of Tuscany.