The Astiludio of Volterra

On the first Sunday in September-for more than 40 years-an important historical flag-waving tournament, the Astiludio, has been held in beautiful Volterra. It all begins with the ringing of the bells of the contrade, which at 3:15 p.m. ring festively at the same time. Four processions follow - coming from the respective gates of the city - which composed of soldiers, knights and crossbowmen arrive in Piazza dei Priori, accompanied by the sound of drums and clarions. The groups in the square compete in a series of games reenacting the events of 1406, when news reached the city that Pisa had been defeated by Florence.