In Ascoli, the Quintana still turns the city into six rival worlds
Districts, knights and historical parades make the Quintana one of Le Marche's most distinctive historical re-enactments.
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An old tradition, a modern revival
The Quintana brings Ascoli's colours, loyalties and collective preparation into public space. Today's event is a modern historical revival relaunched in 1955. Historical roots do not imply an uninterrupted performance since the Middle Ages. [1]
The honours list names the revival's first winner: Porta Tufilla, with Giovanni Castelli riding Dora. Riders, horses and results form a sporting memory alongside historical memory: the past is reinterpreted through a contemporary competition. [1]
Six districts, more than a tournament
The six sestieri are Piazzarola, Porta Maggiore, Porta Romana, Porta Solestà, Porta Tufilla and Sant'Emidio. Their geography links symbols to actual neighbourhoods. Finding them on a map explains why belonging extends beyond costumes worn during the festival. [2]
Each district fields a rider who strikes the Saracen target with a lance. Processions, archers, flag throwers and musicians surround the contest. The best-known spectacle depends on many different participants and forms of preparation. [3]
Choose your Quintana experience
Check the relevant edition's programme before booking. Procession and tournament are separate moments with different locations and access. Choose racing, music or district exploration rather than relying on a generic summer date. [3]
Outside the season, explore gates, squares and district symbols. During events, respect barriers, procession routes and organisers' instructions. Check official channels for tickets, seating and accessibility: arrangements differ between events. [3]