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Ascoli Piceno retains many beautiful traditions, lingering
memories carried down through the ages to remind us that this place has
enjoyed an illustrious past.
La Quintana, Ascoli's
medieval jousting match, rivals the excitement of Siena's Palio but without
the crushing crowds. A thousand participants all in resplendent costume
parading through the travertine-paved streets is something to be seen!
The skill and stamina of the cavalieri as they maneuver their horses on
a tight track to compete for the annual Palio is exciting and adrenaline-pumping.
Teams of musicians and flag-throwers performing in the middle of the piazza
add color, vigor, and showmanship straight out of the Middle Ages to
the historic pageant.
Carnevale is a bright
event in the winter calendar. The pre-Lenten party turns the city's piazzas
and streets into a grand stage for the theatrics and antics of the citizens,
who act out satirical sketches and parade in costume. Ascoli's Carnevale
celebration is a dose of good family fun while spoofing the political
and civic events of the past year in juried skits.
Summer brings the charming
rural festivals known as sagras. Deriving from the term sacra festa, they
are frequently held in conjunction with a religious festival or saint's
feast day
and feature some type of religious observation or procession, but the
main event for every sagra is the particular food item celebrated. Regional
specialties are prepared by the townspeople and served with a lot of camaraderie
and fun. Concerts and dancing round out the homespun activities.
Let Panorama Italy design a tour for you around one of these
historic and cultural events that make life here special. We can obtain
accommodations and event tickets, and give you important background on
the festivities to help you enjoy them to the fullest.
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