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Palio della Balestra
The photos portray images from the famous Balestra crossbow tournament held on the second Sunday of September between the towns of Gubbio and Sansepolcro. In Sansepolcro the tournament has taken place since 1594 but was almost certainly held before. Piero della Francesca, a renowned citizen of Sansepolcro was given the use of one of the 160 crossbows owned by the town at that tim
In terms of tradition, only the Palio di Siena is comparable to our Palio della Balestra. Every year the Renaissance costumes, inspired by the paintings of Piero della Francesca, parade through the town, and colourful flags fill the main square whilst the crossbow men compete for the "palio" and the drums sound the passing of summer. The familiar beat of the drums reminds us that once again tradition has been respected and Sansepolcro has kept its appointment with history. During the week preceding the palio the streets are filled with festivities, paegents of medieval costumes and flag throwing exhibitions. |
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