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Surrounded by the stunning Tuscan countryside and vineyards, the medieval town of Montepulciano celebrates its patron saint San Giovanni every August by holding the 'Bravio delle Botti' Barrel Race. This historic re-enactment complete with costumes and candlelit processions is really one not to be missed by anyone visiting the region.
The race goes back at least 700 years. There is an entry in the municipal statue dated 1372 that details the exact route the contestants must follow. Originally the race was on horseback but this was changed in the 17th century and it is now carried out on foot. What has not changed however is the prize – the honour of winning the ‘bravio’, a cloth badge of honour depicting the town’s patron saint.
Two representatives from each of the town’s eight districts push a weighty 85kg barrel around a 1700m course. The district officials together with the numerous spectators watch nervously as the participants head towards the Piazza Grande and the finishing line, each hoping to emerge victoriously as the winner. The districts were created back in 1337, so rivalry between them is particularly strong.
Prior to the event, the town is busy in preparations. Strict training regimes for the contestants, a torch-lit procession, the branding of the casks, the delivery of the special cloth, the lighting of candles in the Cathedral, the preparation of the medieval costumes, and of course, some celebratory dinners are amongst the many annual duties carried out before the big day.
The event is held on the last Sunday of August and forms part of the celebrations in honour of St. John the Beheaded.
Text by Andrea Bonfiglio
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