On July 25 and 26, Sulmona will celebrate the 30th anniversary of its historic reenactment
In 2026, the Sulmona Knights’ Joust will celebrate the prestigious milestone of its 30th edition, reaffirming its status as one of the most fascinating and well-attended historical events in Abruzzo. On Saturday, July 25, and Sunday, July 26, the capital of the Peligno region will be transformed into a vast open-air stage where history, culture, traditions, and entertainment intertwine to offer visitors a unique experience.
The event offers an extraordinary opportunity to highlight and promote the region’s historical, artistic, and environmental heritage, drawing thousands of visitors from all over Italy to the heart of Sulmona’s historic center and the Abruzzo region.
The rivalry between the neighborhoods and districts brings Piazza Garibaldi to life
The heart of the event is the traditional equestrian competition, in which riders from Sulmona’s Borghi and Sestieri compete in the area around Piazza Garibaldi, the city’s historic Piazza Maggiore.
The competition consists of the famous Giostra all’Anello, a test of skill, speed, and precision in which the riders, galloping at full speed, must pierce rings of progressively smaller diameters with their lances. A spectacular challenge that every year ignites the passion of the audience and fuels the pride of the city’s districts as they vie for the coveted Palio.
The grand historical parade featuring Clizia Incorvaia as Queen Joanna of Aragon
The tournament will kick off with the traditional and evocative Renaissance Historical Parade, one of the most exciting moments of the entire event.
Hundreds of participants in period costumes—ladies, soldiers, knights, flag-wavers, musicians, and bugle players—will parade along the magnificent Corso Ovidio, transporting Sulmona back to the atmosphere of the Renaissance.
Clizia Incorvaia will lead the 30th-anniversary parade, portraying Queen Joanna of Aragon, the symbolic figure of the event and the star of the solemn procession that precedes the jousting competition.
A journey through history, tradition, and entertainment in the heart of Abruzzo
The Giostra Cavalleresca is not just a historical reenactment, but a true community event that involves the entire city. For two days, Sulmona becomes a place where the past meets the present through performances, flag-waving displays, medieval dance routines, historical music, and reenactments that showcase the city’s great Renaissance tradition.
The atmosphere in the streets of the historic center makes this event one of Italy’s most important historical reenactments, successfully blending culture, local identity, and strong public participation.
Toto Holding, Partner of the 2026 Giostra Cavalleresca
For the 30th-anniversary edition as well, Toto Holding reaffirms its support for the event, underscoring the Toto Group’s commitment to promoting events that represent the cultural heritage and identity of Abruzzo.
A partnership that strengthens the bond between tradition, the local area, and cultural promotion, contributing to the growth of an event that, over the years, has become a symbol of regional tourism and culture.
Useful information
For the complete program, side events, and updates, please visit the the event’s official website.
