Palio del Baradello

Como Returns to the Middle Ages

The Palio del Baradello is the historical medieval re-enactment of Como, the capital of the homonymous Province in Lombardy. The event commemorates a specific episode in the city's history: the welcome given by Como to Emperor Frederick Barbarossa in 1159, during a period when the city was allied with the empire against Milan. For a few days in September, the historic center and the hill of Castel Baradello return to the atmosphere of the 12th century.

Pageants, Flag-Throwers, and Tournaments

The heart of the re-enactment is the grand historical pageant, with hundreds of costumed participants parading through the city streets. Alongside the pageant, the event features performances by flag-throwers and archers, tournaments, historical games, shows, and convivial moments such as medieval banquets, which recreate the customs, trades, and flavors of the era.

A Tradition That Renews Itself

Born over forty years ago, the re-enactment is organized by the Associazione Palio del Baradello and involves numerous local entities. After an edition in a reduced format, the organizers have announced a significant relaunch of the event for 2026, aiming to restore the Palio to its richest and most spectacular dimension.

Como's History and Identity

More than just a costume festival, the Palio del Baradello is a moment for rediscovering the historical identity of Como: a collective story that links the city to its medieval past and that each year draws citizens and visitors around the symbolic places of its history, first and foremost Castel Baradello, which overlooks the city from above.