Palio – Estense Contest

In 2025, the Estense Contest brought Lugo (RA) back to the Middle Ages from May 10 to 18, celebrating the passage of Borso d'Este and the city's Este heritage. The four districts-contrade — Rione de' Brozzi, Rione Cento, Contrada del Ghetto, and Rione Madonna delle Stuoie — competed in the event's 'pali': flag-wavers, musicians, and the famous Palio della Caveja, the cross-pull tug-of-war where the four teams pull simultaneously. Each team fields ten athletes, with a maximum of six pullers per pull within a total weight of 540 kg, over six decisive pulls. Costume parades, historical markets, and district taverns at the Pavaglione accompanied the entire week, culminating in the Sunday Palio della Caveja.