Every year, the historic town of Nepi reconnects with its Renaissance roots through the Palio dei Borgia, an event that transforms the streets into a festive historical reenactment dedicated to the renowned Borgia family, with particular emphasis on Rodrigo Borgia, known as Pope Alexander VI, and his daughter Lucrezia. The 2024 Palio dei Borgia, marking its 28th edition, is just around the corner and promises to be a vivid journey into the past, brimming with charm and history. The event is scheduled to take place from June 14 to June 30.
A Step Back in Time
Established in 1995, the Palio dei Borgia is more than just a festival—it is a living tribute to Nepi’s history and its connection to the powerful Borgia family. During the event, the town comes alive with recreations of daily Renaissance life. Visitors from far and wide can enjoy parades in period costumes, jousting tournaments, and scenes of courtly life, fully immersing themselves in an authentic historical atmosphere.
The Rivalry of the Contrade
At the heart of the Palio dei Borgia lies the spirited competition among Nepi’s contrade, each with a strong sense of identity and belonging, proudly represented by their historical crests:
Santa Maria: This contrada forms the spiritual core of Nepi, encompassing the area around the Basilica Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. Its crest, featuring six blue lilies on a gold field, symbolizes purity and hope, reflecting the importance of faith and community in Renaissance daily life.
San Biagio: Occupying the oldest part of Nepi, near the small square in front of the church of the same name, this contrada boasts a rich history of success, having won the Palio seven times. Its crest, depicting a dog rose and an eel, represents the resilience and adaptability of its residents, historically tied to the Orsini family.
Santa Croce: Associated with the ancient Church of Santa Croce, this contrada is known for its fighting spirit and determination, symbolized by the Anguillara crest. With five victories to its name, Santa Croce stands as a historic and cultural force within the Palio competition.
La Rocca: Located near the majestic Borgia Fortress, this contrada proudly displays a bold crest: a grazing ox on a gold field. La Rocca reflects not only the direct legacy of the Borgia family but also the strength and solidity of this part of the town, serving as a historical and social landmark for its residents.
A Cultural Experience Like No Other
Attending the Palio dei Borgia is a unique opportunity to experience a celebration that combines entertainment, history, and gastronomy in an engaging and authentically Italian mix. History enthusiasts and the curious alike can watch the past come to life, while food lovers can indulge in traditional dishes served in each contrada’s taverns, where ancient recipes are reimagined to delight modern palates.
Program for the 2024 Palio dei Borgia
The 2024 Palio dei Borgia offers a packed schedule of events running from June 14 to June 30, promising memorable experiences for all. Here are some of the highlights:
Thursday, June 13
- 9:30 PM – The Cultural Center “L’Acquedotto” hosts “Borgia Thursdays: Art, Music, and Tastings”. This evening will feature culinary delights paired with music and artistic performances.
Friday, June 14
- 5:30 PM – Opening conference in the Consular Hall.
- 6:30 PM – “Offering of the Candles” ceremony and blessing of the 2024 Drappo in the Cathedral Church.
- From 7:00 PM – Street performances by jesters and stilt walkers in the historic center.
Saturday, June 15
- 9:30 AM – Historical reenactments begin with the project “Together for Lucrezia: Life at the Palio”.
- 9:30 PM – The historic center and Piazza del Comune host the Historic Parade and the ceremonial handing over of the keys to Madonna Lucrezia Borgia.
Sunday, June 16
- 3:00 PM – Readings and creative workshops for children in the Noble Hall of the Municipal Palace.
- 6:00 PM – Games of the Four Contrade in Piazza del Comune.
- 10:00 PM – The Borgia Fortress presents the theatrical show “Lucrezia, Will You Marry Me?”.
Upcoming Events
- Thursday, June 20: “Borgia Thursdays: Art, Music, and Tastings”.
- Friday, June 21: Musicians’ Competition of the Four Contrade at 10:00 PM.
- Sunday, June 23: Archery Tournament at 5:30 PM, followed by the “Lucrezia’s Places” Guided Tour at 6:00 PM.
- Saturday, June 29: Equestrian Demonstration by the Knights starting at 9:30 AM, and roaming performances from 7:00 PM.
- Sunday, June 30: Grand Finale featuring the Historic Parade and the Closing Ceremony, where the 2024 Drappo will be awarded to the winning contrada.
Additional Activities
- Guided tours of the Borgia Fortress and Catacombs of Santa Savinilla will take place every Saturday and Sunday, offering a deep dive into local history.
- The Civic Archaeological Museum will be open with free admission throughout the event.
For more information, visit the official website and Facebook page of the Ente Palio, the organization behind this magnificent event:
🌐 www.paliodeiborgianepi.it
📱 facebook.com/paliodeiborgia
Conclusion
The 2024 Palio dei Borgia promises to deliver a cultural and historical experience that will leave a lasting impression on its visitors. It’s an opportunity to explore not only the history but also the hospitality of a community that proudly and joyfully embraces its traditions.
Get ready for an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Italian Renaissance, where every moment enchants and every detail tells the story of a glorious era. Don’t miss this extraordinary step back in time, where Nepi’s past comes alive in all its historic and cultural splendor.
