Corsa di Pio
The Renaissance re-enactment in Pienza that brings the founding of Pope Pius II's 'ideal city' back to life.
About Corsa di Pio
Corsa di Pio: Pienza relives its founding
The Corsa di Pio is the most cherished historical re-enactment in Pienza, a small Renaissance jewel in the Province of Siena, Tuscany, nestled within the landscapes of the Val d'Orcia. Every year in September, the historic center dons period costumes to bring to life the event that gave birth to the city: the inauguration commissioned by Pope Pius II, born Enea Silvio Piccolomini, who in 1462 transformed his native village of Corsignano into the first "ideal city" of the Renaissance.
Historical roots: Pope Pius II's 1462
According to the famous Commentaries of Pius II, the inauguration of the new city was accompanied by an atmosphere of joy and public festivities: "a horse race, a donkey race, and a footrace for adults and children" were held. It is precisely this footrace that today's event commemorates, offering visitors the atmosphere of an authentic Renaissance festival amidst the squares and alleys designed by architect Bernardo Rossellino.
A festival between re-enactment and sport
The Corsa di Pio is not just a footrace: it is an immersive journey that combines culture, tradition, and sport. During the event, the village comes alive with:
- Performances by musicians, flag-wavers, and drummers in Renaissance costume
- Games and entertainment for all ages
- Guided tours, street performers, and shows
- Taverns and a grand Renaissance dinner in Piazza Pio II
- The footrace winding through the historic center, with categories for children, teenagers, and adults
Pienza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
The heart of the event is the scenic Piazza Pio II, surrounded by the Cathedral, Palazzo Piccolomini, and the Town Hall. Pienza's historic center has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996 as a perfect example of humanist urban planning: running and celebrating in this setting makes the Corsa di Pio a unique experience in the landscape of Tuscan re-enactments. The event is also recognized by the Tuscany Region in the official calendar of historical re-enactments.
Who organizes the event
The Corsa di Pio is promoted by the Pro Loco Pienza together with the Associazione Spazio Giovani, with the patronage of the Municipality of Pienza and the contribution of numerous local associations and volunteers, a sign of the community's strong bond with its history.
Corsa di Pio — edition 2026
Corsa di Pio 2026: The UNESCO 30th Anniversary
The 2026 edition of the Corsa di Pio is scheduled in Pienza from Friday, September 18 to Sunday, September 20, 2026. This year, the event is part of the special calendar for the 30th anniversary of Pienza's inscription as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1996-2026), with the theme "Pienza 1996-2026: Guardians of an Ideal".
As per tradition, the days will alternate between Renaissance costumed entertainment, performances by musicians, flag-wavers, and drummers, taverns, a Renaissance dinner in Piazza Pio II, and the footrace with categories for children, teenagers, and adults.
The detailed program with times and routes will be announced by the Pro Loco Pienza in the weeks leading up to the event.
Programme Corsa di Pio 2026
The detailed program for the 2026 edition, including times, routes, and UNESCO 30th-anniversary initiatives, will be announced by the Pro Loco Pienza and the Associazione Spazio Giovani in the weeks preceding the event. Based on recent editions, the structure includes:
Renaissance Entertainment
- Performances by musicians, flag-wavers, and drummers in costume in the historic center
- Games, street performers, and shows for all ages
- Taverns open and Renaissance dinner in Piazza Pio II
Footrace
- Children and teenager categories (short course, approx. 1,800 m)
- Adult category (course of approx. 5 km in the historic center and surroundings)
- Award ceremony in Piazza Pio II at the end of the races
Dates and content are confirmed by the 2026 events calendar of the Municipality of Pienza; precise names and times will be officially communicated later.
Highlights Corsa di Pio 2026
- Renaissance re-enactment in the UNESCO Val d'Orcia village
- UNESCO 30th Anniversary edition "Guardians of an Ideal"
- Renaissance dinner in Piazza Pio II
- Footrace for children, teenagers, and adults
Prices Corsa di Pio 2026
Practical information — Corsa di Pio
How to get there
Pienza is located in the Val d'Orcia, in the Province of Siena. By car: from Siena, follow the SR2 Cassia south, then the SP146 towards San Quirico d'Orcia and Pienza. By train: the nearest station is Chiusi-Chianciano Terme, connected to Pienza by bus. Nearest airports: Florence and Perugia.
Where to park
The historic center is a restricted traffic zone: it is recommended to use the parking lots just outside the walls. Temporary traffic changes may occur during the event.
Tips
The Renaissance dinner in Piazza Pio II usually requires a reservation: contact the Pro Loco Pienza in advance. To participate in the footrace, registrations are collected on-site on the morning of the race.
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Where does it take place — Corsa di Pio
Centro storico di Pienza
Piazza Pio II, 53026 Pienza