Palios and historical re-enactments
Among the most important and characteristic re-enactments, there are the Palios. The main one is the Palio di Castel del Piano, on September 8th, originating from the 15th century “Fiera di Merci e Bestiame” (Goods and Cattle Fair). No less important is the Palio di Piancastagnaio, held on August 18th, in which the 4 districts compete for the “cencio” (cloth). Finally, don’t miss the Abbadia San Salvatore Census Offer, which recalls the medieval custom of offering homages and gifts to the abbot of the Abbey of San Salvatore.
Autumn festivals and more
In Autumn Amiata is rich in festivals mainly organized to celebrate chestnuts: from the Arcidosso and Santa Fiora fairs to the Crastatone of Piancastagnaio, the oldest chestnut feast on Mount Amiata. During the year, also do not miss the Summer Truffle Festival in Castell’Azzara and the Oil Festival, held at the beginning of December in Seggiano.
The Amiata Fire Festivals
Monte Amiata is famous above all for the re-enactments of the ancient rites linked to fire and the concept of rebirth, which are celebrated between the end of November and December. It begins in Roccalbegna, in the hamlet of Santa Caterina with the Focarazza, on November 24th. The Torches of Abbadia San Salvatore is instead a millenary and suggestive tradition that illuminates the streets of the historic center, during the night of Christmas Eve. The celebrations end with the Torchlight procession of Santa Fiora which anticipates the New Year, with the lighting, on December 30th, of the “carboniere” (large wooden pyres burning).
Discover all festivals and events not to be missed on Amiata!
