Corse Pazze - Marble Tournament

Corse Pazze, the marble tournament of Colognora di Valleriana

In the heart of the Valleriana valley, among the narrow alleys and small squares of the ancient walled village of Colognora di Valleriana—a hamlet of Villa Basilica in the province of Lucca—an event comes to life that unites generations through the simplest and most universal of games: marbles. The Corse Pazze is a tournament open to both adults and children, designed to revive the spirit of carefree competition and the pastimes of yesteryear in one of the most charming villages in the Lucca mountains.

A spectacular 100-meter track

The heart of the event is the individual challenge: each contestant must guide their marble to the finish line before their opponents along a 100-meter track. The course winds through 21 themed boards, each featuring obstacles, traps, detours, and shortcuts that turn every descent into an unpredictable and thrilling adventure right up to the final meter. The spectacular nature of the track, which climbs through the stones and slopes of the medieval village, is an integral part of the charm of the Corse Pazze.

Colognora di Valleriana, a village to discover

Perched on a rocky spur at an altitude of about 500 meters, Colognora di Valleriana preserves its medieval layout intact, with narrow alleys, small squares, and a ring that follows the ancient defensive walls. The village, dominated by the church of San Michele with its distinctive bell tower, is also famous for its unique dialect, a true linguistic island. Participating in the Corse Pazze is therefore the perfect opportunity to visit one of the most authentic villages in Tuscany and spend a day immersed in the nature of the Valleriana.

Taste and tradition

The event is not just about games: accompanying the day are the local culinary specialties, ranging from traditional tortelli to sandwiches and necci—the typical chestnut flour waffles that tell the story of the chestnut culture, which has always been a precious resource for these mountains. It is a chance to spend time together outdoors, experience moments of healthy competition, and rediscover the genuine flavors of the Valleriana.