The Quintana of Ascoli Piceno

The Quintana is one of the most important medieval re-enactments in Italy. It has its roots in the ninth century and is held annually on two occasions, on the second Saturday in July, on the feast of Our Lady of Peace, and on the first Sunday in August, corresponding to the feast of the city's patron saint. It all begins with a historical procession with more than 1,500 participants in traditional costumes through the streets of the old town. On the "Field of Games" in the shape of an eight, near Porta Maggiore, representatives of the six Sestieri (districts) of the city clash on horseback with the enemy, made from a puppet in the likeness of a Saracen holding a shield. Other moments, such as the Palio of the flag-wavers and the Palio of the archers, the Salute to Our Lady of Peace and the offering of the Ceri, make the Quintana of Ascoli Piceno a decidedly evocative event.