Discover the 2026 Historic Carousel of Cori's Neighborhoods: Dates, program, and where to stay
The historic art town of Cori is getting ready to relive the glory of its Renaissance past. The 2026 edition of the Carosello Storico dei Rioni di Cori (Historic Carousel of Cori's Neighborhoods) promises thrilling moments filled with flag-wavers, period costumes, and the fierce rivalry between historical districts competing for the coveted banner (drappo).
If you are planning a weekend of culture, folklore, and food and wine in Lazio, here are the unmissable events of the Cori summer to mark down in your calendar right away.
The Official Program of the 2026 Historic Carousel
The celebrations and historical reenactments will swing into full gear starting mid-June, unfolding across three solemn and spectacular events:
June 20th, 2026 – The Oath of the Priors (Il Giuramento dei Priori) : The official ceremony that kicks off the celebrations. The Priors of the city’s three historic gates take their oath of loyalty according to ancient municipal statutes. A solemn moment accompanied by the roll of drums and the sound of trumpets (chiarine).
June 28th, 2026 – Palio of the Madonna del Soccorso: The first eagerly awaited equestrian challenge. Riders from the different neighborhoods will compete in the spectacular ring race (corsa all'anello) to win the banner dedicated to Our Lady of Help.
July 25th, 2026 – Palio of Sant'Oliva: The second and final showdown on the field. The town comes alive once again for the ring race honoring Cori’s patron saint, Saint Oliva, wrapping up the Renaissance games in an atmosphere of collective celebration.
What to do in Cori during the Palio?
In addition to watching the historical parades featuring hundreds of participants in 16th-century attire, the days of the Carousel are the perfect opportunity to discover Cori’s monumental beauties, such as the Temple of Hercules and the Church of Saint Oliva.
The neighborhood taverns (taverne rionali), open specially for the occasion, offer traditional dishes from the Lepini Mountains region, perfectly paired—of course—with a fine glass of Nero Buono di Cori, the local native red wine that defines our territory.
Where to stay for the event?
To experience the atmosphere of the Palio completely stress-free, our B&B is the ideal starting point. Strategically located to easily reach the main squares of the reenactment, we offer you a relaxing stay and an authentic welcome to make you feel like a true part of our history.