Maratonina nel Parco

The Maratonina nel Parco in Torre Gaia

The Maratonina nel Parco is an amateur charity running race that enlivens the Torre Gaia neighborhood, located on the eastern edge of Rome along the Via Casilina, every year. Organized by the Consorzio di Miglioramento Fondiario di Torre Gaia, the event combines sport with a commitment to charity and has become one of the most cherished gatherings for the local community. In 2026, the race reaches its 25th edition, scheduled for Sunday, September 6th.

A race open to everyone

The Maratonina is an amateur event and is open to non-residents: it is not a race reserved solely for athletes, but a true neighborhood festival where both adults and children can run. Departures are staggered by age category, from the youngest 'Pulcini' to adults and seniors, on courses that wind through the tree-lined paths of the park. Participants meet in Piazza Pupinia, the green heart of the neighborhood, which also serves as the starting point and venue for the awards ceremony.

More than just sport: a festival in the park

The running races are the centerpiece of an entire day of festivities. The afternoon is enlivened by a burraco tournament, children's entertainment, and a DJ set, while the food area offers sandwiches, pizza, fried snacks, desserts, and aperitifs. It is an opportunity for families from Torre Gaia and neighboring districts to gather outdoors in a convivial atmosphere, surrounded by sport, music, and good food.

The charitable purpose

The Maratonina nel Parco is, first and foremost, a charity event: the proceeds from registration fees are donated to solidarity projects. Beneficiaries include the Hewo hospital in Quiha, Mek'ele, Ethiopia, and various animal welfare associations. Participating in the race means actively supporting humanitarian and social causes.

Torre Gaia and the local area

Situated in the VI Municipality of Rome, in the eastern part of the capital, the Torre Gaia neighborhood takes its name from an ancient watchtower. Its large park is a rare green lung in the Roman suburbs and provides the ideal setting for an event that, edition after edition, strengthens the sense of community and enhances a space cherished by its inhabitants. Today, the Maratonina nel Parco is a symbol of the neighborhood's identity and a fixed appointment in early September in Rome.