Pallio della Carriera

The Pallio della Carriera in Carpineto Romano

In the heart of the Lepini Mountains, in Carpineto Romano (province of Rome), the Pallio della Carriera stands as one of the most evocative historical re-enactments in the Lazio region. The event transports the village back to the golden age of the Aldobrandini family, specifically the 17th-century reign of Duchess Donna Olimpia Aldobrandini, reviving the propitiatory rites and traditions that once defined the town's seven historic districts.

A Town Stepping Back into the 1600s

For several weeks, Carpineto Romano transforms into a living stage. The streets of the historic center are filled with ladies, knights, soldiers, and flag-wavers, as the districts compete for the honor of winning the pallio. The highlight of the event is the Disfida Equestre, an ancient ring-jousting tournament where knights at full gallop must spear suspended rings along the course. The competition, which follows rigorous selection trials, is rooted in the Statutes of 1556, which also governed the ancient ritual of the 'imbussolamento'—the ceremonial drawing of lots to pair horses, knights, and districts.

The Event Program

The calendar unfolds throughout the Carpineto summer, from July to September, blending spectacular displays with convivial gatherings:

• The Knights' Selection, which kicks off the competition and determines the riders for each district;
• The Imbussolamento, a solemn drawing of lots held in the Church of San Giacomo Maggiore, following ancient statutes;
• Dinner with the Cardinal, a lavish gastronomic re-enactment in the gardens of the Reggia dei Volsci;
• The Historical Pageant, featuring hundreds of participants in 17th-century costumes parading through the village in honor of Donna Olimpia Aldobrandini;
• The Offering of the Candles at the Collegiate Church, including the blessing of the horses on the eve of Saint Augustine, the town's patron saint;
• The Disfida Equestre, the final race that crowns the winning district;
• The Hostarie Aldobrandine, historic taverns set up in the alleys where you can savor traditional Lepini cuisine.

Faith, History, and Community

The Pallio is more than just a show; it is a ritual of identity that unites the entire community of Carpineto Romano around its shared past and devotion to Saint Augustine, whose patronal feast (August 28) is integrated into the event calendar. With its philologically accurate costumes, live music, flag-wavers, and deep district involvement, the Pallio della Carriera is an unmissable experience for those looking to discover the most authentic soul of inland Lazio.