Event Details
Welcome to the Giostra del Saracino 2026 in Arezzo
On Sunday, September 6, 2026, Piazza Grande in Arezzo turns into a medieval jousting arena. In the 150th edition of the Giostra del Saracino, knights representing the four historic districts of Arezzo compete against each other for the Lancia d'Oro trophy. This September date is the second of two annual jousts and is dedicated to the city's patroness, the Madonna del Conforto.
Highlights and Attractions at the Giostra del Saracino in Arezzo
- A historic procession in elaborate costumes winds through the old town to Piazza Grande in the afternoon
- Eight knights from the four districts of Arezzo face off in direct head to head rounds
- Riders charge at full gallop and aim their lance at the shield held by the wooden Saracen figure
- A public general rehearsal takes place on the piazza the day before the main event
- The winning district is awarded the coveted Lancia d'Oro, the golden lance trophy
- 2026 marks a special milestone as the tournament celebrates its 150th edition
- Grandstands around Piazza Grande offer different vantage points over the action
Find Accommodation in Arezzo
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Program and Schedule: What to Expect in Arezzo
The general rehearsal takes place on Friday, September 4, 2026, at 9:30 PM. The main joust begins on Sunday, September 6, 2026, at 5:00 PM on Piazza Grande, following the historic procession of the city districts through the center of Arezzo. Visitors who want a good view of the procession should find a spot along the route early, before the riders reach the piazza.
Tickets and Admission for the Giostra del Saracino Arezzo
Presale for seated tickets on the Chimet, Orchidea Preziosi and Chimera Gold grandstands opens on Saturday, August 29, at 7:30 AM at the ticket office of the "I Colori della Giostra" exhibition in Piazza della Libertà. Standing tickets and general rehearsal tickets go on sale from Sunday, August 30, at 3:00 PM, with online sales starting Monday, August 31. Prices range from 10 euros for a standing spot up to 100 euros for the best seats in the Lancia d'Oro sector of the Chimet grandstand. Children aged 0 to 4 held by an adult enter free, and there is a 10 euro discount for children aged 5 to 14 and adults over 70.
Visitor Tips: Travel and Accommodation in Arezzo
- Arezzo sits on the direct Florence to Rome rail line, making the train a convenient way to arrive, with the station just a short walk from the historic center
- Parking in the city center is very limited on the day of the joust, so public transport or parking outside the old town is recommended
- Early September can still be warm in Arezzo during the day while evenings turn cooler, so light clothing with a jacket for the evening is a good idea
- Accommodation in Arezzo fills up quickly around this milestone edition and should be booked well in advance
- Buy tickets as early as possible, since popular grandstand seats can sell out fast for this special 150th edition
