Historic Parade (Corteo Storico)
Open to all; spectators line the edges of the piazza for the pageant. Visitors should remain behind safety railings and not obstruct the performers.
~20:00
Joust of the Saracen
Giostra del Saracino
Arezzo, Italy
Sep 6, 2026ConfirmedSource
Twice a year, the Tuscan city of Arezzo fills its sloping Piazza Grande for the Giostra del Saracino, a medieval jousting tournament. Riders from the city's four quarters charge a wooden figure of a Saracen warrior with their lances, in a contest of skill and honor wrapped in centuries of pageantry.
Key moments
Jun 19
Lizza and Saracen Joust
Spectators can watch from stands or public areas. They should be mindful of horses and noise, respecting barriers and local viewers.
~21:00
Jun 20
Giostra del Saracino Tournament
Spectators watch as two armored knights charge with lances at the target (“Buratto”), accompanied by medieval music and fanfare
~17:30
Where it happens
Piazza Grande di Arezzo
Arezzo, Italy
Open in MapsHow to show up well
Dress for the setting
Comfortable shoes
Read the local rhythm
Some Italian terms for festivities
Respect local boundaries
Stand behind barriers, follow local guidance, and ask before taking pictures of participant...
Practical notes
Crowds & timing
Crowd level: high.
Tickets
Free events are available.
Reviewed mediaMAJOR HISTORY & CIVIC HERITAGE
Joust of the Saracen
Giostra del Saracino
Arezzo, Italy
Twice a year, the Tuscan city of Arezzo fills its sloping Piazza Grande for the Giostra del Saracino, a medieval jousting tournament. Riders from the city's four quarters charge a wooden figure of a Saracen warrior with their lances, in a contest of skill and honor wrapped in centuries of pageantry.
AnchorCultural anchor
Sep 6, 2026Confirmed dates
Verified this year
Saved locally on this device. A free account keeps your shortlist across devices.
The story behind it
This festival traces back to Arezzo’s chivalric past and civic religion. It is tied to the feast days of St. Donatus and the Madonna of Comfort (July and September). Events like the parade and honors to the Madonna reflect local devotion and identity. The pageantry of flag-wavers, tambourines and historic bands underlines the communal belonging to each quarter.
Key moments to know
Jun 192 moments
Jun 19~20:00Expected
Historic Parade (Corteo Storico)
Open to all; spectators line the edges of the piazza for the pageant. Visitors should remain behind safety railings and not obstruct the performers.
Jun 19~21:00Expected
Lizza and Saracen Joust
Spectators can watch from stands or public areas. They should be mindful of horses and noise, respecting barriers and local viewers.
Jun 20
Jun 20~17:30Expected
Giostra del Saracino Tournament
Spectators watch as two armored knights charge with lances at the target (“Buratto”), accompanied by medieval music and fanfare
Historic Flag Parade
A colorfully costumed procession winds through the square, introducing the competing quarters and setting a medieval atmosphere
How to show up well
first-timer tips
Dress for the setting
Comfortable shoes
Read the local rhythm
Some Italian terms for festivities
Respect local boundaries
Stand behind barriers, follow local guidance, and ask before taking pictures of participants in religious rites.
Photo with care
A solemn yet joyful tradition; avoid crossing the lizza (jousting track) and be patient during ceremonies. Mode...
Essentials at a glance
Date window
Sep 6, 2026
Confirmed
City / Area
Arezzo
Central Italy
Cost
Free public events available
Good for
Families welcome
Moderate visitor welcome
If you go, go with confidence.
Save this celebration to keep the date correct, get planning guidance, follow key moment updates, and build your trip around what matters.
Plan with confidence
Get your Attendance Blueprint
Travel solo with ease
Find tips and support that make it simple
Stay date-correct
We'll watch the date so you don't have to