Palio dei Somari (Donkey Race and Historical Reenactment)

In the heart of the Sienese Valdichiana, Torrita di Siena revives the tradition of the Palio dei Somari, a historical reenactment established in 1966 in honor of Saint Joseph, patron saint of carpenters. The festival pays tribute to the town's historical woodworking heritage, choosing the donkey as an emblem of perseverance, hard work, and humility. Throughout the celebrations, the historic center comes alive with performances, propitiatory banquets, and the eagerly awaited race where eight 'contrade' (districts) compete on donkeyback in the Gioco del Pallone field, accompanied by a grand historical procession featuring over two hundred figures in 15th-century costume. The medieval ambiance pairs perfectly with authentic local food culture: district taverns open their doors to showcase traditional Tuscan and Valdichiana cuisine. Visitors can savor handmade pici pasta, wild boar pappardelle, ribollita, grilled meats, local cold cut and cheese boards, traditional desserts, and local wines.