Palio delle Contrade of Vigevano
The Renaissance re-enactment of the twelve districts at the Sforza Castle
About Palio delle Contrade
Vigevano Returns to the Renaissance
The Palio delle Contrade of Vigevano is the city's main historical re-enactment, in the Province of Pavia. Organized by the Associazione Sforzinda, it brings Vigevano back to the Sforza era, when the city was one of the favorite residences of the Duchy of Milan. The event takes place in the monumental setting of the Sforza Castle and celebrates the figure of Blessed Matteo Carreri, the city's patron saint.
Twelve Districts in Competition
The heart of the Palio is the competition between the city's twelve districts, who compete to win the Cencio, a work of art awarded to the winning district. The re-enactment involves over three hundred costumed participants and numerous historical groups, from archers to musicians, from fire-eaters to dancers, in a Renaissance procession that winds through the city.
Games, Fire, and Spectacle
The days of the Palio alternate between spectacular and competitive dimensions: trials and games between the districts, performances by flag-wavers and falconers, demonstrations of ancient Renaissance crafts, dances, music, and fire shows. Each district also sets up its own refreshment stands, contributing to the popular festival atmosphere that attracts thousands of visitors. The Palio delle Contrade of Vigevano is recognized as one of Lombardy's historical re-enactments.
Palio delle Contrade — edition 2026
The 2026 edition of the Palio delle Contrade of Vigevano, the XXV, is scheduled for Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 May in the setting of the Sforza Castle. The re-enactment, curated by the Associazione Sforzinda, celebrates the Renaissance and the city's connection with the Sforza family, in honor of the patron saint Blessed Matteo Carreri.
Programme Palio delle Contrade 2026
9–10 May 2026 — Sforza Castle of Vigevano
The XXV edition features the competition between the twelve districts for the awarding of the Cencio, with over 300 costumed participants and six historical groups. Among the elements of the event:
- Renaissance historical parade through the city streets
- Two competitive games between the districts
- Performances by archers, men-at-arms, musicians, flag-wavers, falconers, fire-eaters, and dancers
- Demonstrations of ancient Renaissance crafts and workshops
- Refreshment stands set up by the individual districts
The detailed timetable will be published by the organization closer to the event.
Highlights Palio delle Contrade 2026
Prices Palio delle Contrade 2026
Practical information — Palio delle Contrade
When
In spring (in 2026, Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 May).
Where
Sforza Castle of Vigevano (PV).
How to get there
Vigevano Castle is in the city center, reachable on foot from the train station (connections with Milan and Pavia) and from Piazza Ducale. By car, take the SS494 Vigevanese.
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Where does it take place — Palio delle Contrade
Castello Sforzesco di Vigevano