Palio di Colonna

The Palio di Colonna: The seven-district challenge

The Palio di Colonna, also known as the Palio dei Rioni, is one of the most cherished events in the calendar of Colonna, the smallest municipality in the Metropolitan City of Rome, nestled between the Prenestini Mountains and the Castelli Romani in Lazio. While it is a relatively new event, it has deep roots: inaugurated in 2024, it breathes new life into a long-standing local tradition, the Palio degli Asini, which remains dear to the hearts of all residents.

From the Donkey Palio to the District Palio

Since donkeys are no longer a part of daily village life, the districts now compete in skill-based trials and popular games—a way to foster a sense of community belonging and pass on a piece of local identity to the younger generation. The event is promoted by the Pro Loco Colonna with the support of the local municipality and involves over one hundred participants in period costumes every year.

The seven competing districts

The heart of the Palio is the competition between the seven historic districts of Colonna, each with its own colors and local supporters:

• Rione San Nicola
• Rione San Rocco
• Rione Via Labicana
• Rione Maranella
• Rione Parco Barberi
• Rione Pian Quintino
• Rione Osteria

Historical pageant, flag-wavers, and traditional games

The two-day event alternates between spectacular displays and social gatherings. It kicks off with the Palio dei Ragazzi (Youth Palio) dedicated to children, featuring traditional rural games, followed by the Cena dei Rioni (Districts' Dinner) in the town center. On Sunday, the village comes alive with a historical pageant in period attire, a performance by the Sbandieratori di Cori (flag-wavers), and the 'Lancio della Sfida' (Throwing of the Challenge), which signals the start of the district competitions: relays, wheelbarrow races, water-bucket races, and other trials that test dexterity and team spirit. The day concludes with the awarding of the winning district and a final dinner at the food stalls.

Colonna and the Castelli Romani

Located along the ancient Via Labicana, amidst vineyards and olive groves, Colonna is famous for its wine and the intimate atmosphere of its village. The Palio is the perfect opportunity to discover this lesser-known corner of the Castelli Romani, just a few kilometers from Rome, and to experience local traditions alongside the residents.

When it takes place

The Palio di Colonna is usually held in June, over the course of a weekend. The first edition took place on June 15–16, 2024, and the second on June 14–15, 2025.