Palio della Mannaja

Pietralunga brings the Middle Ages to life every August with an old-world re-enactment complete with medieval garb. The Palio della Mannaja is actually a few days of festivities that starts with special dinners in each district of the town, then the athletic and artistic flag-throwing accompanied by drums and trumpets. Archery and other medieval skill competitions and artisan stands take you back in time. An opulent costumed parade precedes the re-enactment of the "miracle of the mannaja" - the primary purpose of the festival. In 1334 one pilgrim by the name of Giovanni di Lorenzo di Picardia was on his way to Lucca to venerate the Volto Santo. Stopping in Pietralunga, he was unjustly accused of murder and condemned to death. He put his fate in the hands of the Volto Santo, praying all night for salvation. When he faced the exucutioner, the blade of the "mannaja" (ax) was mircaculously turned around onto the executioner himself.

The final event is the Palio del Biroccio - a race of decorated two-wheeled carts, putting each district of town against each other in competition, with the winner getting the coveted "palio" (painted banner). Throughout the festival, there is plenty of food, accompanied by music, theatrical shows and loads of fun.

The Palio della Mannaja is held at the beginning of August, but check for exact dates annually.