Palio della Marciliana
Chioggia returns to the 14th century: the great historical re-enactment of the War of Chioggia
About Palio della Marciliana
Chioggia returns to the 14th century
The Palio della Marciliana is the grand historical re-enactment of Chioggia, in the Metropolitan City of Venice, which transforms the historic centre into a medieval city every third weekend of June. The event celebrates the War of Chioggia (1378-1381), the dramatic conflict between the Republic of Venice and Genoa that saw the lagoon city at the centre of events. The name recalls the marciliana, the merchant ship built in the city's shipyards, a symbol of Chioggia's maritime power in the 14th century.
The five districts
The heart of the re-enactment are the five historic districts — San Martino, San Michele, Montalbano, Sant'Andrea, and San Giacomo — which compete in the Crossbow Palio. Hundreds of participants in 14th-century costumes bring the alleys and squares to life, while no modern structures interrupt the illusion of a journey back in time.
The Crossbow Palio
The climax is the contest for the Great Crossbow Palio: each crossbowman shoots their verretta (the arrow, called piliotto in ancient Venetian dialect) at the corniolo, the circular target, in a test of millimetric precision that determines the winning district.
One of the most important re-enactments in the Veneto
The Palio della Marciliana is recognised as one of the most significant historical re-enactments in the Veneto region. Amidst medieval taverns, ancient craft shops, markets, and processions, it meticulously recreates the daily life, flavours, and scents of a medieval lagoon city. Admission to the event is free.
Palio della Marciliana — edition 2026
The Palio della Marciliana 2026 takes Chioggia back to the 14th century on the third weekend of June. Three days of re-enactment that reconstruct the medieval life of the lagoon city and culminate in the contest for the Great Crossbow Palio between the five historic districts.
The programme alternates solemn moments — the blessing of the districts, the historical procession, the oath of the captains — with scenes of popular life in the taverns and medieval markets, up to the spectacular re-enactment of the Genoese incursion with the burning of the tower. Admission is free.
Programme Palio della Marciliana 2026
Friday — Opening
- Inaugural evening with the solemn blessing of the five districts and crossbowmen.
- Majestic Historical Procession and oath of the Captains.
Saturday — The city awakens in the Middle Ages
- Opening of taverns and historic markets with period cuisine.
- Demonstrations of ancient crafts (wool carders, perfumers, artisans).
- In the evening: dramatic re-enactment of the Genoese incursion, with combat simulations and spectacular burning of the Montalbano tower.
Sunday — The day of truth
- In the afternoon: Great Crossbow Palio, the precision challenge between the five districts (San Martino, San Michele, Montalbano, Sant'Andrea, San Giacomo).
- In the evening: triumphal procession of the Doge and final festivities.
The precise dates of the third weekend and the full timetable will be published on marciliana.it.
Highlights Palio della Marciliana 2026
Prices Palio della Marciliana 2026
Practical information — Palio della Marciliana
How to get there
Chioggia is reachable by car via the SS309 Romea, from the A4 (Padova Est exit) or the A13. By train to Rovigo or Venice, then by bus. The re-enactment takes place in the historic centre, along Corso del Popolo and the adjacent alleys.
Admission
Free admission to all street events. Medieval taverns offer period cuisine for a fee.
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Where does it take place — Palio della Marciliana
Centro storico di Chioggia
Corso del Popolo, 30015 Chioggia