Historical Pageant and Palio of the Cart of Monteleone d'Orvieto
The medieval Ferragosto that divides Monteleone d'Orvieto into two noble houses
About Palio of the Cart
Two noble houses, one Palio
The Historical Pageant and Palio of the Cart is the medieval re-enactment that enlivens Monteleone d'Orvieto every Ferragosto, a village in the province of Terni among the most evocative in the Orvieto area. Inspired by the Castle Statute of 1407 and established in 1981, the event pits two ancient noble houses against each other, the Counts of Montemarte and the Counts of Marsciano, who compete for the Palio.
The challenge and the pageant
It all begins with the throwing of the gauntlet in Piazza Bilancini, a solemn moment when the two houses issue their challenge. On August 16th, the historical pageant takes place, an epic parade with over four hundred participants in medieval costume who cross the historic center among ladies, knights, soldiers, flag bearers, and musicians, reviving ancient rivalries and centuries-old traditions.
The Cart Race
The competitive heart of the festival is the Cart Race, held at the Campo delli Giochi: a trial that determines the winning house and awards the Palio. Between re-enactment, spectacle, and competition, the event is one of the defining appointments of Monteleone d'Orvieto, deeply rooted in the community's memory and pride. The pageant is part of the Umbrichelli Festival days, sharing the village's summer festival atmosphere.
Palio of the Cart — edition 2026
In 2026, Monteleone d'Orvieto will once again relive its Middle Ages with the Historical Pageant and Palio of the Cart, traditionally scheduled for August 16th. The festival is expected to unfold, as every year, around the throwing of the gauntlet in Piazza Bilancini in the preceding days, the historical costume pageant, and the Cart Race at the Campo delli Giochi, with the challenge between the noble houses of the Counts of Montemarte and Marsciano.
The precise dates and program for the 2026 edition have not yet been published. For updates, it is advisable to follow the channels of the Pro Loco of Monteleone d'Orvieto.
Programme Palio of the Cart 2026
The detailed program for the 2026 edition has not yet been published. The event typically follows this structure: throwing of the gauntlet in Piazza Bilancini between the Counts of Montemarte and the Counts of Marsciano in the preceding days; on August 16th, a historical pageant with over four hundred participants in medieval costume through the historic center; followed by the Cart Race at the Campo delli Giochi with the awarding of the Palio. Dates and times will be announced by the Pro Loco of Monteleone d'Orvieto.
Practical information — Palio of the Cart
How to get there
Monteleone d'Orvieto is located in the province of Terni, in the Orvieto area. By car: A1 exit Fabro-Ficulle, then follow signs for the village. The nearest train station is Fabro-Ficulle on the Rome-Florence line.
When
The pageant and the Cart Race take place on August 16th; the throwing of the gauntlet and related events in the preceding days.
Tips
Position yourself along the pageant route in advance; wear comfortable shoes for the narrow streets of the historic center.
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Where does it take place — Palio of the Cart
Centro storico di Monteleone d'Orvieto