The Pugnaloni of Allerona - Feast of Saint Isidore the Farmer

A Peasant Feast of the Orvietano

In Allerona, a village in the province of Terni overlooking the Orvietano area, the third Sunday in May is dedicated to Saint Isidore the Farmer, patron saint of farmers. The Feast of the Pugnaloni is one of the most original folk events in the area, with roots that tradition traces back to ancient pagan rites related to the fertility of the land.

What are the Pugnaloni

The pugnalone is an allegorical cart built around a poplar branch adorned with colorful ribbons and products of the earth. Scenes of rural life and the miracle of Saint Isidore are depicted on it – tradition has the saint in prayer while angels guide his plow in his place. Characters, animals, and agricultural tools are made by the inhabitants using natural materials such as wood, clay, paper, and bread dough. The name itself derives from 'pungolo', the tool with which farmers stimulated oxen.

The Procession and the Competition Between Carts

The heart of the day is the procession that crosses the historic center of Allerona: figures in traditional costume from the second half of the 19th century, a musical band, the clergy with the image of the saint, the municipal banner, and authorities accompany the hand-pulled pugnaloni along the village streets. A jury evaluates the carts and awards the Pugnaloni Trophy.

A Tradition That Renews Itself

The current form of the pugnaloni as allegorical carts dates back to the post-World War II period, but the feast has roots much further back in time. Organized by the Organizing Committee along with the Pro Loco and the Municipality of Allerona, the event keeps alive a deep connection with the rural world and the peasant identity of the Orvietano area, in Umbria.