Disfida degli Arcieri di Terra e Corte

In Fivizzano, a fascinating historical reenactment has been held in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II (commonly known as the Medicea) since 1971, including a parade featuring more than 400 paraders in costume, with archers, flag-throwers, musicians, dames, commoners, jesters, sword companies, fire artists and ancient crafters taking turns performing in a Renaissance atmosphere.  

In the year 1572, a tussle took place in the piazza between the best archers of the town (Terra), located within the city walls, and the Corte, the surrounding area and the contado (or, county) of Guardia, Verrucola, Fittadisio and Montechiaro. The purpose was to select the best soldiers to follow the Captain hailing from Florence. Torello da Turano never missed a shot at the wooden target, proving decisive in the victory of the Verrucola district during the first Disfida, held on August 6.

In memory of the occasion, this thrilling competition between the various districts was revived in 1971 with the Disfida degli Arcieri di Terra e Corte (Terra and Corte Archers’ Challenge), held each July.

Celebrations begin with the presentation of weapons to the Captain who, having taken an oath, assigns the archers’ firing order. 5 archers from each district compete against each other, 5 at a time, trying to hit targets placed almost 100 feet (30 meters) away with arrows shot from wooden bows based on models from the period. 
The competition is preceded by a parade of the historical procession.

Program of the 2026 edition: 

• July 10 and 11
  Renaissance Dinners and Shows 
• July 12
  Shoot-off between the Archers of Terra and Corte