Palio degli Zoccoli
Desio relives the Battle of 1277 among its 11 districts
About Palio degli Zoccoli
A Challenge from the Middle Ages
The Palio degli Zoccoli is the grand historical festival of Desio (province of Monza and Brianza). The event re-enacts the Battle of Desio of January 21, 1277, a decisive clash in which Ottone Visconti defeated Napo Torriani, marking the beginning of the long Visconti lordship over Milan. In 2026, the Palio reaches its 36th edition.
The 11 Districts and the Historical Pageant
The protagonists of the festival are the 11 districts into which the city is ideally divided. Each district presents ladies, knights, soldiers, hunters, peasants, friars, and scribes, creating an impressive historical pageant that winds through the town's streets. The procession concludes with the protagonists of the battle: the defeated Napo Torriani, imprisoned in a cage pulled by oxen, and the victorious Ottone Visconti on horseback.
The Clog Race
The most anticipated moment is the relay race with wooden clogs, a test of skill and speed that pits the 11 districts against each other for the conquest of the Palio. It is from this unique race that the event gets its name, recalling the popular footwear of the past. The tension of the competition, the colors of the banners, and the cheering of the districts make the day a true community event.
Brianza Identity and Tradition
More than just a re-enactment, the Palio degli Zoccoli is an event of identity that annually draws history enthusiasts, families, and visitors to Desio. Organized by the Palio degli Zoccoli Committee, it promotes the city's historical heritage and the local pride that animates the districts.
Palio degli Zoccoli — edition 2026
In 2026, the Palio degli Zoccoli celebrates its 36th edition on Sunday, June 14. The main day includes the grand historical pageant of the 11 districts through the town's streets, with ladies, knights, soldiers, peasants, and friars, and concludes with the re-enactment of Napo Torriani's capture and Ottone Visconti's triumph. The heart of the competition remains the relay race with wooden clogs between the districts. In the preceding days, related events take place, including the investiture ceremony of the District Masters.
Programme Palio degli Zoccoli 2026
Related Events (preceding days)
- Investiture ceremony of the District Masters
- District initiatives
Sunday, June 14
- Historical pageant of the 11 districts through the town streets
- Re-enactment of Napo Torriani as prisoner and Ottone Visconti as victor
- Relay race with wooden clogs among the 11 districts
- Awarding of the Palio
The detailed schedule and traffic changes will be published by the Committee and the Municipality of Desio in the weeks prior.
Highlights Palio degli Zoccoli 2026
Prices Palio degli Zoccoli 2026
Practical information — Palio degli Zoccoli
Where
Historic center of Desio (MB).
When
June 14, 2026 (with related events in the preceding days).
Admission
Free; possible traffic changes in the center during the procession.
How to get there
Desio is served by the train station on the Milan–Asso line. The center is reachable on foot.
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Where does it take place — Palio degli Zoccoli
Centro storico di Desio
Centro storico, 20832 Desio