Palio dei Normanni: how to reach Piazza Armerina and the event program

As every year, even this summer in Sicily will turn the Palio dei Normanni 2019, from 12 to 14 August in Piazza Armerina. The days leading up to Ferragosto (Feast of the Assumption) are particularly awaited in this area of the island, as the evocation of the Saracen expulsion in 1060 will take place, thanks to the Normans led by Roger of Altavilla. A costume party that will take you back in time and praises the much desired freedom. Let’s discover more about the event program.

The event program

• The first day we witness the delivery of weapons in the square of the town hall and to the blessing of the jousting knights.
• The second day we proceed with the commemoration of the entrance of King Ruggero d’Altavilla to Piazza Armenia, to which the keys of the city are handed over. Exciting historical parades come to life through the streets of the town, which recall the entry of the Norman troops into the city.
• Finally, on the third day there is the medieval tournament in his honor, the Quintana del Saracino: at the camp Sant’Ippolito the knights will represent the four historic districts and will compete in four skill tests, to compete for the papal palio representing Maria SS. of Victories. The banner will then be kept at the church of the winning neighborhood.

How to reach Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina is located in the central-eastern part of Sicily and is easily reachable from Catania in about one hour and a half. Just take a ferries for Sicily, to Catania, and from there take the A19 towards Palermo. Exit at Dittaino, take the state road 192, then the provincial road 4 and finally the state road 117bis. At this point, all you have to do is follow the signs for Piazza Armerina.

More information

For more information about the 2019 edition of the Palio dei Normanni in Piazza Armerina, to stay updated on any changes to the program and to find out how to participate, you can consult the official website of the event, Paliodeinormanni.com, and the official website of the municipality of Piazza Armerina, Comune.piazzaarmerina.en.it.