The Palio della Balestra Sansepolcro is not just a tourist event, but the beating heart of Sansepolcro’s identity. Every year, on the second Sunday in September, the city of Piero della Francesca comes to a standstill to renew a ritual that has its roots in centuries of military, social, and cultural history. This re-enactment celebrates the ancient art of crossbow shooting, a discipline that in the Middle Ages represented the main defense of the city walls and which today has become the symbol of an unbreakable twinning and a chivalrous challenge with the city of Gubbio.

The competition takes place in the charming Piazza Torre di Berta, the city’s “salotto buono” (parlor), surrounded by noble palaces that for one day become the backdrop of an open-air medieval theater. To the sound of drums, trumpets and acrobatic flag-waving, the crossbowmen compete by aiming at the “corniolo,” the traditional target waiting to be pierced by the winning arrow.

If you are planning a visit to Valtiberina, this guide will accompany you on a journey of discovery of all the secrets of the Palio: from the technical precision of the weapons to the magic of the historical parades, as well as tips on how to turn this experience into an unforgettable vacation, perhaps staying at the nearby Borgo Benedetto country house, the ideal retreat for alternating the adrenaline of the square with the silence of the Tuscan countryside.

Table of contents

  1. Why the Palio della Balestra Sansepolcro is unmissable
  2. History and tradition: from its origins to its connection with Gubbio
  3. The art of crossbow shooting: technique, weapons, and rules of the competition
  4. Settembre Biturgense: a month of events and rituals
  5. Dates, times, and practical advice for participating
  6. Tourist experience: what to see and do in Sansepolcro
  7. Staying at Borgo Benedetto: the perfect complement to the experience
  8. FAQ – Palio della Balestra Sansepolcro

Why the Palio della Balestra Sansepolcro is unmissable

Attending the Palio della Balestra Sansepolcro means witnessing an event in which time seems to have stood still. Unlike many other reenactments that have recently been created for tourism purposes, the one in Sansepolcro boasts a documented historical continuity that makes it one of the most authentic in Italy.

The combination of sporting technique and historical rigor is what fascinates most. This is not a performance, but a real competition, deeply felt by the crossbowmen who train all year round for that single shot. The excitement in the square when silence falls before the release of the verretta (the crossbow bolt) is tangible and engaging. It is an opportunity to observe up close the skill of the master craftsmen who build the weapons, the beauty of the Renaissance costumes inspired by the paintings of Piero della Francesca, and the pride of a community that celebrates its roots.

Mini-box | The Palio in brief

  • When: Second Sunday in September.
  • Where: Piazza Torre di Berta, Sansepolcro (AR).
  • The Challenge: Sansepolcro against Gubbio.
  • The Weapon: Ancient Italian crossbow (bench-rest).
  • The Symbol: The “Corniolo,” a conical wooden trunk.

History and tradition: from its origins to its connection with Gubbio

The roots of the Palio della Balestra Sansepolcro date back to the 15th century, but the practice of crossbow shooting in Sansepolcro is already attested in documents from the 1300s. At that time, every free commune needed a trained city militia; citizens were encouraged to practice shooting so that they would be ready to defend the city in case of siege. Over time, military training turned into a playful and celebratory competition.

The link with Gubbio is what makes this Palio unique. It is said that the two cities exchanged invitations to their respective competitions as early as the Middle Ages. Today, this relationship is governed by a strict ceremony: the Palio is held twice a year. In May, the crossbowmen of Sansepolcro travel to Gubbio (Palio di Sant’Ubaldo), while in September, the people of Gubbio travel to Tuscany for the “rematch.”

This historic brotherhood has survived wars and political changes, making the Palio a rare example of cultural diplomacy. The costumes worn during the parade are not random: in Sansepolcro, they refer to the Renaissance period, paying homage to the most illustrious citizen, Piero della Francesca, whose colors and geometries seem to come to life in the banners parading through the streets.

The art of the crossbow: technique, weapons, and rules of the challenge

The crossbow used in Sansepolcro is the so-called “ancient Italian crossbow,” an imposing and heavy bench-mounted weapon. Unlike portable crossbows, this one requires a fixed position (the bench, in fact) to be aimed with extreme precision.

The weapon and the bolt

The crossbow consists of a steel bow mounted on a fine wooden frame (the teniere). Loading the weapon requires considerable force, exerted by means of a mechanical jack. The arrow used is called a verretta: it is shorter and heavier than a common arrow, designed to maintain a stable trajectory even in windy conditions.

The Competition and the Cornel

The challenge consists of hitting the corniolo, a cone-shaped wooden target, about 50 centimeters long, placed at a distance of 36 meters from the shooting range. The corniolo is inserted in the center of a large decorated disc. The difficulty is extreme: since each crossbowman shoots his verretta at the target where those of his opponents are already stuck, the free space is reduced shot after shot. The arrows often splinter or stick into each other (the famous “fare filotto”), creating a tangle of wood that only the judges, at the end of the competition, will be able to untangle to declare the winner. The winner receives the “Palio,” a silk banner painted each year by a different artist.

Settembre Biturgense: a month of events and rituals

The Palio della Balestra Sansepolcro is the culmination of an entire month of celebrations known as Settembre Biturgense. Attending only the Sunday of the Palio means seeing only the tip of the iceberg.

  • L’Offerta della Cera: A solemn religious and civil ritual that opens the celebrations.
  • The Palio di Sant’Egidio: A shooting competition exclusively for the citizens of Sansepolcro, held on September 1 to honor the city’s founding saint.
  • The Flag Games: On the Saturday evening before the Palio, Piazza Torre di Berta hosts the Sansepolcro flag throwers. Famous throughout the world, their performances are mathematical choreographies of flags flying against the night sky, accompanied by musicians.
  • Markets and Propitiatory Dinners: During the week, local taverns open their doors, offering traditional dishes such as pici, Chianina beef, and typical Tuscan desserts.

Dates, times, and practical advice for participating

Although the main Palio takes place on the second Sunday in September, the program usually begins early in the morning.

  • Morning: The “Bando per la città” (Proclamation for the city). Heralds, accompanied by drummers, walk through the streets of the city center reading the proclamation of the challenge, inviting citizens to the square.
  • Early afternoon: The Great Historical Parade. Hundreds of participants in period costume parade from their respective neighborhoods to converge in the square. This is the best time to photograph the details of the velvets, brocades, and armor.
  • Afternoon (around 4:00 p.m.): Start of the archery competition.

Practical tips:

  1. Tickets: Access to the stands in Piazza Torre di Berta is usually subject to a fee and places are limited. We strongly recommend booking well in advance through the tourist office or the Società Balestrieri.
  2. Parking: The historic center is pedestrianized during the event. It is preferable to park outside the walls (Palasport area or Viale Vittorio Veneto) and continue on foot.
  3. Weather: September in Tuscany can still be very hot. Bring water and sunscreen, as the stands are often exposed to the sun until late afternoon.

What to see and do in Sansepolcro during the Palio

Sansepolcro is a refined city of art that deserves a thorough visit beyond the event.

The Civic Museum

You cannot say you have visited Sansepolcro without seeing Piero della Francesca’s “Resurrection” described by writer Aldous Huxley as “the most beautiful painting in the world.” The museum also houses the Polyptych of Mercy and other fundamental works of the Renaissance.

Aboca Museum

For those looking for something unusual, the Aboca Museum celebrates the history of the relationship between man and medicinal herbs in a splendid Renaissance palace. It is a sensory experience among ancient mortars, reconstructed herbalist shops, and medicinal scents.

Local food and wine

The Valtiberina is a land of robust flavors. During the Palio, look for trattorias serving raviggiolo (a typical fresh cheese), handmade pasta with goose sauce, or dishes based on local truffles. Don’t forget to accompany it all with a glass of red wine from the Arezzo hills.

Experience the Palio della Balestra Sansepolcro at the right pace: stay at Borgo Benedetto

The Palio della Balestra Sansepolcro is an intense event, full of noise, colors, and crowds. To enjoy it to the fullest, the secret is to alternate between immersing yourself in the festivities and taking a regenerating rest. Choosing to stay at the Borgo Benedetto country house transforms your visit into an all-round wellness experience.

The perfect contrast: town square and nature

Imagine spending Sunday afternoon amid the cries of the crossbowmen and the rolling of drums, then returning in a few minutes to an oasis of peace. Borgo Benedetto, strategically located between Sansepolcro and the surrounding hills, offers the silence that allows you to “metabolize” the emotions of the day. September is also an ideal time for combining travel with productivity. Borgo Benedetto offers a quiet and inspiring environment for remote work, small corporate retreats, or creative meetings. The dedicated Workspace and Meeting Room in Tuscany allows guests to work surrounded by nature, without giving up comfort, privacy, and high-speed connectivity.

Why choose Borgo Benedetto in September:

  • Strategic location: You are just a few kilometers from the historic center, away from the chaos of crowded parking lots but close enough not to miss a single event in the rich program of Settembre Biturgense.
  • Comfort and relaxation: After long walks on medieval cobblestones, you can enjoy a swim in the pool surrounded by the greenery of the private park or stroll through the orchard, vegetable garden, and herb garden.
  • Tuscan Authenticity: The property reflects the agricultural and noble soul of the Valtiberina, with attention to detail that mirrors the same care that crossbowmen put into maintaining their weapons.
  • Discovering the area: In addition to the Palio, the staff can recommend nature trails or visits to nearby villages such as Anghiari or Citerna, making your week in September a complete journey through Tuscany and Umbria.
  • Tasting artisanal products: Don’t forget to taste and take home their extra virgin olive oil or homemade limoncello.

Mini-box | Added value Staying in a country house during the Palio allows you to experience the festival like the ancient lords of the area: enjoying the spectacle of the city and then retreating to your country estate, where you can sip a glass of fine wine and admire the silhouette of the Tuscan hills on the horizon.

FAQ – Palio della Balestra Sansepolcro

The Palio della Balestra is a centuries-old competition that pits the crossbowmen of Sansepolcro against those of Gubbio in a test of extraordinary skill. Unlike other reenactments, this one boasts a historical continuity documented since the Renaissance. The athletes use the ancient bench crossbow, an imposing weapon that requires the highest level of athletic and mental preparation. The event is unique because it transforms Sansepolcro into a living painting: the costumes of the participants are faithfully inspired by the works of Piero della Francesca, the Renaissance genius who was born here. Every detail, from the sound of the drums to the waving of the flags, contributes to creating an immersive experience that goes beyond simple sport, celebrating the identity and history of an entire community. Attending the Palio means witnessing a bond of friendship and rivalry between two cities that has lasted for over five hundred years, immersed in a perfectly preserved medieval urban setting.

Sansepolcro is located in a strategic position in the Valtiberina, easily accessible via the E45, which quickly connects Arezzo, Perugia, and Città di Castello. On the day of the Palio, the historic center is entirely pedestrianized, and the parking lots near the walls fill up early in the morning. We recommend using the external parking areas, such as those near the Palasport or along Viale Vittorio Veneto, which allow you to reach Piazza Torre di Berta with a short walk. For guests of Borgo Benedetto, logistics are even simpler: the property offers the advantage of being outside the urban chaos but only a short drive away. This allows you to move towards the center at strategic times during the program, avoiding queues and enjoying the convenience of reserved parking upon your return. Wearing comfortable shoes is essential for tackling the cobbled alleys and the long day of outdoor celebrations.

The competition is governed by strict rules that preserve its historical integrity. The crossbowmen compete in precision shooting using a bench crossbow, aiming at a target called a “corniolo”. This is a cone-shaped wooden log placed at a fixed distance of 36 meters. Each shooter fires their “verretta” (a short, heavy arrow with a steel tip), trying to hit as close to the center as possible. The challenge is made more difficult by the fact that the arrows are not removed during the competition: subsequent shooters must therefore be able to hit the target already crowded with their opponents’ arrows, aiming for a millimeter-wide space. A jury of experts then examines the corniolo to decide the individual winner, who receives the “Palio” (a painted silk banner), and the winning city. The use of modern sights or electronic technology is prohibited, making the competition a pure test of eye, technique, and steady nerves.

Attending the Palio della Balestra requires a minimum of organization, as seats in the stands in Piazza Torre di Berta are limited and in high demand. Tickets can be purchased in advance through the official channels of the Società Balestrieri di Sansepolcro or at the city’s tourist information points. For those who are unable to find a seat in the stands, it is still possible to enjoy the Grande Corteo Storico (Grand Historical Parade) for free as it winds its way through the streets of the town center, offering a breathtaking spectacle of costumes and colors. A useful tip is to follow the “Settembre Biturgense” program, which also includes the nighttime flag-waving show on Saturday evening, a free event with great visual impact. Staying at Borgo Benedetto allows you to receive personalized advice and assistance in navigating the various weekend events, ensuring that you don’t miss the most evocative moments of the festival and that you experience the event with the right “insider” perspective.

A weekend in Sansepolcro for the Palio is the perfect opportunity for a cultural tour of the Valtiberina. Don’t miss the Civic Museum, which houses masterpieces such as Piero della Francesca’s “Resurrection” and “Polyptych of Mercy.” Equally fascinating is the Aboca Museum, dedicated to the history of medicinal herbs. Beyond the city limits, Borgo Benedetto’s location invites you to explore the neighboring medieval villages such as Anghiari, listed among the most beautiful villages in Italy, and Citerna. The surrounding nature offers ideal trails for trekking and cycling, allowing you to alternate the intensity of the festivities in the square with the silence of the Tuscan hills. After a morning dedicated to art, you can return to the Borgo for a stroll through the herb garden or among the rows of the orchard, discovering the true rural soul of this corner of paradise on the border between Tuscany and Umbria, where time seems to pass at a more human and regenerating pace.

The Palio della Balestra is an educational and entertaining experience for children, who are fascinated by the knights, drummers, and flag-wavers’ acrobatics. However, the crowds and noise in the square require some precautions. It is advisable to plan frequent breaks and bring everything you need for the sun, as the stands are uncovered. Choosing Borgo Benedetto as a base for the family offers an invaluable advantage: independent accommodations such as the Cottage or the Loft allow you to maintain the rhythms and habits of the little ones, offering ample and safe spaces for outdoor play. After the excitement of the parade, children can run around in the private park or take a dip in the pool, while parents enjoy relaxing in the garden. This combination transforms the Palio from a simple crowded outing into a complete vacation, where medieval history becomes a magical tale to be experienced in total comfort and safety for the whole family.

Staying at Borgo Benedetto during the Palio means immersing yourself completely in the authenticity of the area. Located in the charming hamlet of Paradiso, this country house offers the perfect balance between proximity to the events in Sansepolcro and the absolute peace of an excellent farm. In addition to the comfort of the historic suites, guests can discover the value of local production: Borgo produces artisanal extra virgin olive oil and traditional limoncello, which are the perfect souvenirs of this land. You can relax in the swimming pool surrounded by greenery, stroll through the organic vegetable garden, and breathe in the scents of the botanical garden. It is the ideal retreat for those seeking a warm and genuine welcome, where every detail—from breakfast with a view of the hills to the tranquility of the park—is designed to regenerate the spirit. Choosing Borgo Benedetto means transforming your visit to the Palio into an unforgettable sensory journey, made up of history, nature, and artisanal flavors sourced locally.