The water palio of the ancient Maritime Republic of Noli
Noli, in the Province of Savona, was one of Italy's lesser-known Maritime Republics, alongside Genoa, Pisa, Amalfi, and Venice. The village retains its medieval appearance intact, with its towers, narrow alleys (caruggi), and Monte Ursino Castle overlooking the town. The Regata Storica dei Rioni celebrates this glorious past in an event that has taken place in June since 2015 as part of Noli Medievale.
The festival offers three days of historical reenactment: a historical parade in costume winds through the village streets, while Piazza Chiappella hosts shows, scenes of medieval life, and themed events. It's an immersion into the atmosphere of the ancient Republic, with costumed participants, musicians, and ancient crafts.
The grand finale, on Sunday, is the regatta: the four districts of Noli compete on rowing boats in the waters off the village. Each district has its own colour: yellow for Burgu, red for Ciassa, blue for Maina, and white for Purtellu. It's the Maritime Republic's palio, a fiercely contested challenge by the community that beautifully concludes Noli's medieval weekend.
For 2026, Noli Medievale with the Regata Storica dei Rioni is renewed in June, following the tradition that has placed the palio in the summer month since 2015. Three days of medieval atmosphere with the historical costume parade through the village streets, shows in Piazza Chiappella, and concluding with the regatta of the four districts in the waters off Noli.
The precise dates will be announced by the Municipality of Noli; the regatta, as per tradition, takes place on Sunday.
Program to be defined. Usual structure of the event:
Dates and details on the Municipality of Noli's channels.
Noli is reachable by car from the A10 motorway, exit at Spotorno or Feglino, along the Via Aurelia. Nearby train stations: Spotorno-Noli and Finale Ligure.
In June, over three days, with the regatta scheduled for Sunday. The precise dates will be announced by the Municipality of Noli.
Free. The historical parade, shows, and regatta can be viewed from the historic centre and the seafront.
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Centro storico di Noli e Piazza Chiappella
Centro storico e specchio d'acqua, 17026 Noli