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Apr 29 2008
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See the Battle of the Bridge in Pisa |
Holidaymakers staying in Tuscany villas this summer will be able to enjoy a significant historic commemoration in Pisa.
On the last Sunday of June, the city hosts the Battle of the Bridge, a traditional pageant that involves thousands of participants and is considered one of Pisa's most important annual events.
A historical parade takes place along the Lungarni and is followed by the 'battle' itself on the Ponte di Mezzo.
The grand procession sees hundreds of participants wearing medieval costumes, many in the Spanish style of the late 16th century.
Two opposing teams, the Mezzogiorno from south of the river Arno and Tramontana from north of the river, then meet on the bridge to display their strength and physical prowess.
The contest sees teams pushing a cart weighing several tons and subsequently being judged on their efforts.
Pisa's Battle of the Bridge, or Gioco del Ponte, is so popular that some 100,000 people turn out to enjoy the event every year.
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