Quintana of Ascoli Piceno - History - 3 August 2025

The jousting tournament or tournament of the Quintana is a historical Medieval with equestrian tournament being held in Ascoli Piceno.

It is held the first Sunday of August on the occasion of the feast of Emidius , patron saint and first bishop of the city of Marche. For some time there is also an edition of Quintana at night, the second Saturday of July. 

 

This event is held every year since 1955 when, after a period of suspension, took place again at the initiative of historians like Charles Cardarelli, Charles Baiocchi, Giuseppe Fabiani, the set designer Danilo Ciampini of Professor Alberto Costantini, Julius Franks, Aldighiero Batini and Nazzareno Peci.

Each year has seen the addition of new costumes and new figures up to the current composition of the imposing and magnificent historical procession that moves, with the measured tread of the ancient military art, accompanied for the entire route of the parade, by the sound of trumpets, the roll of the drummers and the flag-wavers who perform almost continuously.Of particular strength, dexterity and charm is the show that carriers of banners offer within the field of play.

 

The whole event of Quintana comprises several moments that conduct in the days before the competition of riders such as the reading of the announcement, the offering of candles, the giving away of the archers, the prize of the flag and then the parade parade and the carousel in the field.

For the city of Ascoli is the expression and synthesis of traditions, its history and indissoluble bond to the land mentioned by ancient covenants which, in the Quintana, it preserves the memory. The event is followed and felt by all Ascoli who are preparing for this event throughout the year. In the six districts citizens often hear the sounds of trumpets and the drumbeat.