30th Palio dei Borgia historic reenactment kicks off in Nepi, Italy

The 30th edition of the Palio dei Borgia opened officially on 5 June 2026 in the council hall of Nepi, Italy. A special conference titled “Statuimus et Ordinamus” presented original 1465 Nepi statutes, highlighting the town’s medieval legal and social customs.

The festival runs until 21 June and transforms Nepi’s streets with Renaissance‑style processions, costumed cavalry, flag‑throwers, musicians and period taverns. Four historic districts – San Biagio, Santa Maria, Santa Croce and La Rocca – contest a series of challenges that culminate in the joust for the drappo. La Rocca enters as defending champion after winning the 2025 race. The event draws thousands of locals and visitors, celebrating the city’s historic link to Lucrezia Borgia and the Papal States.