Vinci Fair

The Vinci Fair: Celebrating Leonardo's Village

Located in the Municipality of Vinci, in the Province of Florence and the heart of Tuscany, the Vinci Fair is one of the most cherished summer events in the Montalbano area. For five consecutive evenings, the entire town comes alive: the medieval village of Vinci Alto, with its narrow streets and the tower of the Conti Guidi Castle, steps back into the Middle Ages, while the modern area of Piazza della Libertà (Vinci Basso) hosts live music, shows, and culinary delights. It is a unique blend of historical re-enactment and popular festival that engages both residents and visitors from across Tuscany.

The Legend of the Volo di Cecco Santi

The most anticipated and spectacular moment of the Fair is the Volo di Cecco Santi (Flight of Cecco Santi), a re-enactment rooted in a tradition documented since 1856 and staged in its current theatrical form since 1989. Legend tells of Cecco Santi, a soldier serving in Vinci who, for the love of a noblewoman from the rival town of Cerreto Guidi, betrayed his city and was condemned to be thrown from the tower of the Conti Guidi Castle. Today, the re-enactment culminates in a historical costume parade and a fireworks display that illuminates the village, providing a dramatic conclusion to the event.

The Tenzon di Palla: Gialli vs. Rossi

Another beating heart of the Fair is the Tenzon di Palla, the historic challenge that pits the two souls of the town against each other: the Gialli (Yellows) of Vinci Alto and the Rossi (Reds) of Vinci Basso, competing for the traditional Coppo di Vinci trophy. It is an ancient team game that strengthens the identity of the two districts and fuels a good-natured rivalry between the different parts of the municipality.

Between the Medieval Village and the Modern Square

Throughout the evenings, the streets and squares of the historic center (Via Roma, Piazza Masi, Piazza dei Conti Guidi) host markets, medieval games, court performances, historical dances, storytelling, and art. In Vinci Basso, along Piazza della Libertà and Via Giovanni XXIII, you will find concerts, activities dedicated to Leonardo, and entertainment for all ages. There is no shortage of tastings of wine and local products from the Vinci countryside, showcasing the area's gastronomic excellence.

Part of the Estate dell'Ingegno

The Fair is part of the broader Estate dell'Ingegno (Summer of Genius) program, which accompanies Vinci and its surroundings from June to September with dozens of events dedicated to culture, music, theater, food, and local traditions. The Fair is the flagship event, attracting a large audience every year to a unique setting, just steps away from the birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci.