The 68th edition of the Sagra del Tordo in Montalcino takes place from October 23 to October 25, featuring historical reenactments, archery competitions among the city’s four quarters, and traditional food offerings.
Festivities Open with Costumes and Art Presentations
Festivities officially open on Friday, October 23, in Piazza del Popolo. Under the Loggiato of the Historic Municipal Palace at 5:30 PM, the folklore group Il Trescone di Montalcino will unveil new costumes. At 6:15 PM, organizers will present the artwork created by artist Francesco Mori, which is awarded annually to the winning quarter of the archery competition.
Saturday, October 24, shifts toward preparations for the main event. At 11:00 AM in Piazza del Popolo, Il Trescone will perform, followed at 11:30 AM by a historic municipal parade starting from Piazza Cavour. Archery pairings for the four quarters—Borghetto, Pianello, Travaglio, and Ruga—will be drawn at noon. The traditional Provaccia training race takes place at the shooting field at 4:45 PM following an afternoon parade.
Town Crier Announces Festival Before Archery Tournament
Sunday, October 25, marks the central day of the festival. Morning events begin at 9:00 AM with dances by Il Trescone through the city streets, leading up to a meeting at 11:30 AM in Piazza del Popolo where the town crier announces the festival. The quarters will present handcrafted items inspired by the ancient arts of the city to the Podestà and his lady. Archery teams and the city receive a formal blessing on the steps of the church of Sant’Egidio at 11:45 AM, followed by the delivery of arrows to the team captains at the Fortress at noon.
The main Tournament of Archery begins at 3:45 PM on Sunday afternoon at the shooting field, preceded by a historical procession departing Piazza Cavour at 3:15 PM. The winning quarter will receive the Silver Arrow and Francesco Mori’s commissioned artwork.
Gastronomic Stands and Visitor Logistics
Alongside the historical events, the Giardini dell’Impero will host food stands operated by the four quarters on Saturday and Sunday, offering local Montalcino specialties and traditional dishes. Municipal authorities have organized a shuttle bus service for visitors attending Sunday’s events.
Admission is paid, with free entry for children up to six years old. Further details are available through the Municipality of Montalcino.
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