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Back in 1495 a
small army made up of Sienese and exiles from Perugia occupied the
castle of Passignano, but the reaction of Perugia was so violent that
the invaders loaded their boats on their shoulders and tried in vain
to flee to the nearby islands. This historic event gave birth to the
Palio delle Barche a spectacular and unique race which takes place
in three phases: the first and the third in the water, whilst the
second on dry land where the contestants carry their boats on their
shoulders through the old town. The race takes place on the last Sunday
of July, and features more than 160 contestants, divided into four
teams from the four town's district: Centro Storico, Centro 2, Oliveto,
and San Donato. Each district is symbolized by a different fish: the
Carp, the Pike, the Eel and the Perch. During the Palio a race reserved
for women,"The Jug Race", also takes place. |
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