Molise certainly has no shortage of traditions. In addition to the beautiful landscape and monuments archeologicalWhat's of great interest, even among non-Molise tourists, are the traditions themselves, some of which have even had the honor of crossing regional borders. Among these, the Palio delle Quercigliole di Ripalimosani deserves the distinction of having been recognized as an Italian Wonder by the National Youth Forum.
The Palio delle Quercigliole is a deeply-held tradition in the small Molise village of Ripalimosani. It is perhaps the town's most characteristic festival and is celebrated in the Quercigliole district (hence the festival's name). This district is just over two kilometers from the town center and sits on a hill, at the top of which sits a chapel dedicated to the Madonna of the Snow.
How did this event come about?
According to legend, the Palio delle Quercigliole is held to commemorate an event attributed to the Madonna. It is said that on August 5, 352, the area was covered in snow. The Pope, having dreamed that night of the Virgin Mary telling him of the event, ordered the construction of a small church dedicated to Santa Maria della Neve, after visiting the site. Thus, every year on the first Sunday in July, the statue of the Madonna is carried in procession to the town's Mother Church and returned to the chapel on August 11.
But what does the Palio delle Quercigliole consist of?
The Palio has a specific date: August 12th. On this day, from the early hours of the morning, many locals and non-locals gather on the hill, organizing picnics and barbecues with friends and family. Toward the afternoon, everyone prepares to watch the Palio, which consists of a horse race of about one kilometer, divided into three phases. The first two are elimination-style; during the final phase, the six remaining riders are assigned to the town's six districts: Villaggi, Morgione, Piazza, San Rocco, Santa Lucia, and Castello. The jockey who wins this third and final phase must enter the chapel of the Madonna della Neve with his horse, making it kneel before the statue of the Madonna.
But it doesn't end there! In the evening, Ripalimosani square is enlivened by a nationally renowned singer, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display!
