Palio della Balestra Sansepolcro
The Palio della Balestra di Sansepolcro, a Centuries-Old Tradition of Valtiberina
“Si Balestri il Palio, con virtù ed onestà, e che la vittoria arrida a lo migliore in campo!”
The Palio della Balestra di Sansepolcro is one of the most heartfelt historic traditions in Valtiberina Toscana. Held every year on the second Sunday of September, the competition pits crossbowmen from Sansepolcro and Gubbio against one another, reviving an ancient rivalry rooted in the Renaissance.
The rivalry between the two towns has been documented consistently since 1594, though the tradition runs even deeper: as early as the 15th century, crossbow shooting was reportedly practiced as both a civic and military discipline. Local tradition even holds that Piero della Francesca defended Sansepolcro’s colors in 1453, a detail that shows just how deeply this practice was woven into the town’s everyday life.
The Historic Procession and Entrance into the Square
The Palio begins in the afternoon, when the historic processions of Sansepolcro and Gubbio wind through the streets of the old town. Ladies, armed guards, musicians, and trumpeters accompany the crowd, creating a striking atmosphere full of color, sound, and Renaissance flair.
The entrance into Piazza Torre di Berta is one of the day’s most exciting moments. Here, flag-wavers perform intricate routines and choreographed displays, paying tribute to the city’s districts before the competition officially begins.
The Crossbow Challenge: Balestra all’Italiana
The competition takes place at the shooting range, roughly 50 meters from the central target, known as the corniolo. Crossbowmen from both towns take turns firing their bolts in an atmosphere of total silence and concentration.
Every shot counts. Victory often comes down to mere millimeters, carefully measured by the judges. Once the match ends, the winning crossbowman is proclaimed alongside his historic procession, which parades once more through the streets, greeted by townspeople and visitors who have gathered from across Valtiberina.
An Event Lived by the Community
The Palio della Balestra is far more than a historical reenactment — it’s an event deeply felt by the people of Sansepolcro. It marks the high point of Settembre Biturgense, a month packed with cultural events and side activities that involve the entire town.
Attending the Palio means connecting with the truest identity of Sansepolcro and Valtiberina, where tradition, historical memory, and community participation continue to coexist naturally.
Where to Find Information About the Palio della Balestra
To learn more about the event’s history, explore the full Settembre Biturgense program, and discover related activities, visitors can check the official website of the Balestrieri di Sansepolcro, which gathers documents, historical accounts, and updates on the tradition.
Where to Stay to Discover Valtiberina Toscana
Discovering the nature of Valtiberina Toscana means taking the time to walk, observe, and listen to the landscape. Trails, hills, and woods accompany the journey at a natural rhythm, inviting you to slow down and experience the environment mindfully.
A countryside stay in Tuscany lets you connect with a valley where nature, the seasons, and silence are part of everyday life. Here, the landscape isn’t just a backdrop — it’s a living element that shifts with the light and the weather.
At Le Ceregne Bio, direct contact with the environment shapes a way of traveling built around walks, nature trails, and quiet moments, alternated with cultural visits. It’s a way of experiencing Valtiberina through slow walking and observation.
If you’d like to experience the Palio della Balestra di Sansepolcro at a relaxed pace, immersed in the traditions of Valtiberina, explore our rooms and the farm life activities we offer at our agriturismo — for a stay that brings together culture, countryside, and slow time.
What Our Guests Are Saying:
“Our two bedroom, two bathroom apartment was comfortable, clean, spacious and the perfect size for a family of 4. It even includes a full kitchen with fridge.
The location is off the beaten path, super quiet and serene, but still close enough to beautiful small towns like Anghiari and Sansepolcro which have shops and restaurants and lots of must see sights.” – Joseph
“We had a smashing week in March staying in the cosy villa style apartments. When we arrived we were met by her, her wonderful mum, the lovely dogs and cats and a chorus of frogs singing in the lake! The experience is entirely non intrusive with no pushiness or overt touristy feel. Saying that I had to run a work meeting from my iPad on the excellent wifi!” – Conrad
“The specific advantage is the attitude of the hosts and the opportunity to talk to them. Besides the place is uniquely beautiful, the owners are incredibly hospitable and kind, speak English and are ready to offer a full tourist service with all the details. This is an experience away from the crowds of people, here you are close to the nature and authenticity of Italy. The food is homemade, the products are grown on the farm and everything is incredibly delicious! I am really impressed!” – Kamelia
