Festa di San Giovanni e Palio delle Botti

The Palio delle Botti of Marsciano

The Palio delle Botti is the flagship event of Marsciano, in the province of Perugia, which every June accompanies the celebrations for the patron saint San Giovanni. It is a medieval-style competition during which the eight districts of the city compete in a test of strength, speed, and skill: pushing a barrel of about 200 kg along the streets of the historic center.

The eight districts

The eight districts of Marsciano compete for the Palio: Ammeto, Centro, Cerro, Ponte, San Francesco, Schiavo, Tripoli, and Via Larga. The race is divided into several categories - Palio Junior (children), Palio delle Donne (Women's Palio), and Palio degli Uomini (Men's Palio) - each with its own ranking and its own banner up for grabs.

A week in costume

During the week of the Palio, Marsciano transforms into a medieval village: medieval dinners, markets, a historical parade with citizens in period costume, shows, and music liven up the center. The districts' taverns offer traditional dishes, including the famous Taverna del Bottaro.

Tradition and community

The Palio delle Botti is much more than a race: it is a moment of strong identity for the Marsciano community, which works all year round preparing costumes, scenery, and tavern staff. Organized by the Associazione Palio delle Botti Marsciano, it is one of the most cherished historical re-enactment events in the area.