The Palio of Legnano

Every year in Legnano the ancient Battle fought in 1176 is re-enacted. The oldest celebrations date back to the 14th century when Count Giovanni Corio Visconti Figliodoni issued an ordinance sanctioning the beginning of civil and military festivities throughout the Milanese countryside every May 29. The event, with its current characteristics, was established only from 1935 under the name "Sagra del Carroccio," and then became "Palio di Legnano after the end of the war events of those years. The festivities in Legnano begin as early as the end of April, when the Translation of the Cross and the Issuing of the Announcement of the Palio take place, but it is not until the last Sunday in May that the Palio proper is held. The festival begins with a marvelous historical procession in medieval costumes - hand-sewn by the tailor's shop of each contrada - and then continues with the thrilling horse race, consisting of three batteries, in which the city's eight contrade compete. There is no shortage of side events and initiatives such as "Manieri Aperti" and "Castello in Festa" with the re-enactment of the ancient medieval encampments as well.