Palio del Diotto

The Palio del Diotto, which annually sees the town’s districts compete for the Palio, commemorates the investiture of the Vicar of Scarperia.

Founded by the Florentine Republic on September 7, 1306, Scarperia has long organized festivities to mark the anniversary, now held on September 8 to align with the Festival of the Nativity of Our Lady, which falls precisely on the day following that of the founding: Die Octo which has over time become Diotto.

In 1953, the Scarperia authorities decided to revive the ancient custom of Vicarial Succession by reviving the historical re-enactment of the Diotto festival. For years, this was based on the transfer of power between outgoing Vicar Albertaccio di Andrea Corsini and incoming Vicar Carlo di Roberto Acciaioli, which took place in September 1545.
Nowadays, each year sees an alternation of Vicars from the 15ᵗʰ and 17ᵗʰ centuries. 

On September 8, the door of the Palazzo dei Vicari opens wide to allow for the exit of the Procession of Scarperia comprised of over 100 paraders accompanying the outgoing Vicar, to the sound of clarions and rolling of drums, headed toward the Florentine Gate of Scarperia, going to encounter the new dignitary who will shortly thereafter take their place in the government of the Vicariate.
The 2 figures meet at the Gate and greet each other according to a very precise protocol which sees the Scarperia and Florence processions reassemble and proceed to the main street of the vicariate.
After traveling along the ancient streets, the procession reaches the piazza that opens up in front of the Palazzo dei Vicari where, after the reading of the cries of the Herald of the Signoria, the possessions are listed then the Incoming Vicar takes an oath on the holy gospels. In their honor, the Outgoing Vicar then commences the Giochi di Gagliardia—traditional games and feats of strength and skill.

The Field Master calls over the 4 judges and starts the Palio del Diotto, with 5 games among the 4 finalist districts of knife throwing, a brick race, tug-of-war, chariot race and greasy pole climb.

In the middle of the games, to give players a chance to catch their breath and especially to enrich the spectacle, are acrobatics in time with the music of the Bandierai (flag-throwers) and Musicians of Castel San Barnaba.
Each year, the Diotto presents a series of associated events that consist of initiatives aimed at preparing for the Diotto itself and activities that form part of the festivities, the latter indicatively from July to October.