Palio del Ticino
From the Castle to the River: Pavia's Grand Historical Re-enactment
About Palio del Ticino
Pavia's Historical Re-enactment
The Palio del Ticino is the most important historical re-enactment in Pavia, the capital of its province in Lombardy. Centered around the Visconti Castle and the Ticino river, the palio brings a full day of medieval life to the city, with its motto "From the Castle to the River" summarizing its spirit and route.
A Page of Pavese History
The palio commemorates a real event: the victory of Filippo Maria Visconti's fleet against the Republic of Venice, which took place in June 1431. The "new" Palio del Ticino was established in 2006 to revive this fifteenth-century historical episode and the deep connection between Pavia, the Visconti family, and its river.
The Procession and the Rowing Race
The event features a medieval encampment, jousting tournaments, falconry, and an impressive historical procession. In the presence of the entire court—including soldiers, nobles, and courtiers—it winds through the historic center to the Covered Bridge. Here, the most anticipated moment takes place: the rowing race with the traditional 'barcè', the typical flat-bottomed Pavese boats steered by two standing rowers. The program also includes archery competitions and theatrical performances in the Visconti court.
An Event for the City
With over 10,000 participants in its most successful editions, the Palio del Ticino is more than just a re-enactment; it's a celebration of identity that involves the entire city of Pavia. The 'barcè' race on the Ticino, in particular, links the event to Pavia's riverine tradition, making it a unique fixture in the Lombardy palio scene.
Palio del Ticino — edition 2026
The Palio del Ticino 2026 marks the return of Pavia's grand historical re-enactment after the 2025 break, with a special edition celebrating twenty years since the refoundation of the "new" palio (2006). The event is expected in June—Visitpavia indicates June 14th—at the Visconti Castle and along the Ticino river. The program includes the medieval encampment, the historical procession to the Covered Bridge, the rowing race with the traditional Pavese 'barcè' boats, and other challenges between the districts. The exact date and detailed program will be confirmed by the Associazione Palio del Ticino.
Programme Palio del Ticino 2026
Typical Day's Program (June)
- Medieval encampment and day of court life at the Visconti Castle
- Jousting tournaments, falconry, and theatrical performances in the Visconti court
- Imposing historical procession through the center to the Covered Bridge
- Rowing race on the Ticino with Pavese 'barcè' boats (two standing rowers)
- Archery competition
Special edition celebrating twenty years since the palio's refoundation. The final program will be published by the Associazione Palio del Ticino.
Highlights Palio del Ticino 2026
Prices Palio del Ticino 2026
Practical information — Palio del Ticino
How to Get There
Pavia is connected to Milan by train (approx. 30 minutes) and by car via the A7 motorway. The event takes place between the Visconti Castle, the historic center, and the Covered Bridge over the Ticino.
When
The palio is held in June. The rowing race takes place on the Ticino river, at the Covered Bridge. Free entry to public events.
Information
Associazione Palio del Ticino — paliodelticino.com
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Where does it take place — Palio del Ticino
Castello Visconteo e fiume Ticino
Castello Visconteo, 27100 Pavia