Palio dell'Ortica

A race that is a neighbourhood festival

The Palio dell'Ortica is one of the most cherished events in Milan's amateur running calendar. It takes place in the Ortica neighbourhood, in Municipality 3 of the City of Milan, Lombardy, an area that has retained a village-like soul: courtyards, murals telling the history of the district, and a strong sense of community. The event, organised by the Ortica Team association, is not just a simple race but a true street party that attracts hundreds of participants every year.

The route

The race covers a non-competitive 6-kilometre course, entirely flat, starting from the Centro Schuster on Via Padre Lodovico Morell. The route goes through the neighbourhood and winds towards the greenery of Parco Lambro and the avenues of Parco Forlanini, away from city traffic. The stopwatch doesn't matter: the only rule is to run, or walk, with a smile.

Space for the little ones

Before the main race starts, there are races dedicated to children and teenagers over short distances. The Trofeo dei più piccoli (Trophy for the Little Ones) is dedicated to the memory of Claudio Faina, a long-time friend of the association. It's the most heartwarming moment of the evening, with many families filling the neighbourhood.

The soul of Ortica

The event has grown edition after edition to become a symbol of the district. Sponsored by Municipality 3, it intertwines sport, socialising, and neighbourhood identity: after the finish, Ortica comes alive with chatter, refreshments, and music, true to its spirit of a popular Milanese festival.