Sarsina hosts seventh Maraffone World Championship

The seventh edition of the Maraffone World Championship concluded in Sarsina, drawing 320 participants, or 160 pairs, from across the Romagna region. The competition, held in Piazza Plauto, featured the traditional card game moves known as ‘busso, striscio e volo’.

Edgardo Tontini and Elio Tontini claimed the world title after defeating the 2022 champions, Stefano Venturi and Gianni Fantini, in the final. The third-place position was taken by Paolino Rossi and Mario Bonaventura, followed by Stefania Donini and Cesare Bruno in fourth.

Originating in the Romagnolo countryside during the 19th century as an evolution of tressette and briscola, Maraffone is regarded as a significant piece of local intangible heritage. Bruno Biserni, president of Gal L’Altra Romagna, noted that the championship serves as a tool for social cohesion and territorial promotion. Proceeds from the event are donated to local associations.