Il Sarapino - Saracino with the Ape

A unique local joust in Tuscany

In the medieval village of Civitella in Val di Chiana, in the province of Arezzo, one of Tuscany's most curious and entertaining re-enactments takes place every June: Il Sarapino - Saracino with the Ape. The name itself is a play on words combining "Saracino" and "Ape": here, the ancient and noble Saracen Joust of Arezzo is reinterpreted with a playful, popular twist, replacing the knight's horse with the Ape Piaggio, the small three-wheeled motor vehicle that was the most common mode of transport in the Italian countryside after the war.

The origins: from the post-war period to today

The idea was born in the post-war era, when some locals, inspired by the solemn Saracen Joust of nearby Arezzo, decided to create their own version, accessible to a small country village. Unable to provide horses, they chose the vehicle every farming family knew: the Ape. From that ironic stroke of genius, the "Sarapino" was born. After years of being an intermittent festival, the event was brought back to life by the Pro Loco of Civitella in Val di Chiana, which now organizes it annually, drawing a loyal audience from the Valdichiana and the entire Arezzo province.

How it works: the four districts and the Retribuet

The town of Civitella is divided into four districts—San Francesco, Porta Aretina, Porta Senese, and La Torre—each with its own colors, captain, and costumed participants. In Piazza Lazzeri, in the historic center, the districts compete in three runs each: aboard the Ape, the "knight" must strike the buratto, the mechanical target inherited from the Arezzo joust, to win the Retribuet, the main prize. At the end of the festivities, the Masgalano is also awarded to the district that distinguished itself for its poise and elegance during the festival days.

A community ritual

More than just a race, the Sarapino is a true collective ritual that involves the entire town. The festival opens with the evocative Vigil of Arms, the propitiatory dinner during which the district captains gather the inhabitants around the knights and participants, in a moment of reflection and conviviality that precedes the challenge. In the following days, the village comes alive with dinners, costume processions, and evenings in the square, leading up to the final joust. It is the ideal opportunity to discover one of the most beautiful villages in the Valdichiana, with its imposing fortress and medieval walls, while experiencing an authentic popular tradition rich in Tuscan humor.

Where and when

The heart of the event is Piazza Lazzeri, in the historic center of Civitella in Val di Chiana (AR), in Tuscany. The festival traditionally takes place in the first half of June and culminates with the joust on Saturday evening. Admission is free and suitable for families and curious visitors of all ages.