Discover the Cultural Events of Sulmona: The Cordesca & The Giostra

Step Back in Time and Experience the Passion of Sulmona’s Rich Traditions

If you’re planning a trip to Sulmona, a small town nestled in the heart of Italy’s Abruzzo region, you’re in for a treat. Known for its stunning views, charming medieval streets, and delicious confetti (sugared almonds), Sulmona is also home to two extraordinary cultural events that draw visitors from around the world.

The Giostra Sulmona and Cordesca are not only a celebration of the town’s rich history but also a testament to the passion and dedication of its people.

These events are a must-see for anyone visiting Sulmona, offering a perfect mix of history, local culture, and a real sense of community.

The Cordesca: A Children’s Celebration of Sulmona’s History

The Cordesca is held annually at the beginning of June in Sulmona. This event celebrates both the town’s past and future. It is inspired by the Giostra Cavalleresca, Sulmona’s famous jousting tournament. The Cordesca is a children’s version of this tournament, with kids aged 8 to 14 taking center stage. It offers young people the chance to experience Sulmona’s rich traditions. Children play the roles of knights, ladies, flag-bearers, and musicians, bringing the town’s history to life.

A Growing Tradition

Since its inception in 2003, the Cordesca has become a key part of Sulmona’s cultural events, with hundreds of children participating each year. The project begins in September when local schools start offering lessons in ancient dance, flag-waving, music, and Renaissance history. These lessons culminate in a vibrant parade and competition held during the Cordesca weekend, which in 2025 will take place on May 31st and June 1st.

The Historical Parade: A Walk Through Time

One of the highlights of the Cordesca is the historical parade, where over 300 children march through the town’s picturesque streets, dressed in Renaissance-inspired costumes. These costumes are made with the same fine fabrics used for the adults in the Giostra Cavalleresca, ensuring that the historical accuracy of the event is maintained. The children walk in the footsteps of Sulmona’s ancestors, offering a glimpse into the town’s rich past and deep cultural roots.

The Race at Pallozzi Municipal Stadium

The heart of the Cordesca is the race at the Pallozzi Municipal Stadium, where the children compete in a fun yet competitive tournament. The course is set up with metal rings placed at varying diameters, and the children race to capture these rings as they run through the grassy field. This competition allows each participant to showcase what they’ve learned throughout the school year, from their flag-waving skills to their knowledge of Renaissance history.

The winner of the race is awarded a Palio, a beautiful piece of artwork designed by a local Sulmona artist, making it a special memento of their achievement.

More Than Just a Tournament: A Celebration of Heritage

The Cordesca is more than just a tournament—it’s a celebration of Sulmona’s rich cultural legacy. It provides a valuable opportunity for young people to connect with their heritage, while also fostering a sense of community and pride. The event is recognized by UNICEF, underscoring its importance in the lives of Sulmona’s children and highlighting its cultural and social significance.

For visitors, the Cordesca is a heartwarming event that showcases Sulmona’s traditions. It offers a unique chance to witness the town’s rich heritage. You’ll experience the passion and dedication of the local community firsthand. The Cordesca beautifully honors Sulmona’s past while looking toward the future. It’s an event you won’t want to miss when visiting Sulmona.

The Giostra Sulmona: A Spectacle of History and Rivalry

In the summer, Sulmona transforms into a medieval battleground for the Giostra Cavalleresca di Sulmona, a two-day jousting tournament held on July 26th and 27th, 2025. This annual event is the town’s most famous cultural celebration, drawing large crowds from across Italy and beyond. The Giostra Sulmona is more than just a tournament – it’s a living history lesson where medieval traditions come to life right before your eyes.

The Revival of the Giostra Cavalleresca

Since its revival in 2000, the Giostra Cavalleresca has become a prestigious event. It brings together cities from across Europe. The event showcases a thrilling display of skill, pageantry, and honor. The competition takes place in Sulmona’s historic Piazza Maggiore. Visitors can witness knights on horseback racing to capture rings with their lances. This skill was essential for medieval knights.

A Grand Parade: The Heart of the Event

The Giostra Sulmona kicks off with a grand historical parade that features over 600 participants, each representing a different European city. These delegates, dressed in authentic Renaissance costumes, bring their unique cultural heritage to the competition. The parade is a lively spectacle filled with performances in ancient dance, music, and even crossbows, creating an electric atmosphere throughout the town.

As the parade winds through the streets and arrives at the competition grounds, the anticipation builds, and the knights prepare for the main event – the joust.

The Joust: A Test of Skill, Precision, and Bravery

The jousting tournament is the highlight of the Giostra Sulmona. It’s a test of skill, precision, and bravery, as knights from different European cities race to capture rings with their lances, vying for the coveted Palio—a unique artwork painted by a local artist.

The competition is fierce, with each knight displaying the expertise and valor that the medieval era prized. But it’s not just about the joust; it’s a full immersion into medieval life, with reenactments of historical moments and demonstrations of the customs and skills that defined the period.

The Giostra Cavalleresca dei Borghi più Belli d’Italia

One special highlight of the Giostra Sulmona is the Giostra Cavalleresca dei Borghi più Belli d’Italia. This unique competition invites Italy’s most beautiful villages to participate. It allows visitors to discover Sulmona’s rich history and stunning landscapes. Visitors also explore the charming villages that make this region special. It’s a wonderful chance to connect with the cultural and natural heritage of Abruzzo and beyond.

A Growing International Event

The Giostra Sulmona continues to grow in international significance, with cultural exchanges, twinning projects, and collaborations among the participating cities. This expansion of the event underscores its importance as a celebration of medieval tradition, cultural unity, and community spirit.

For visitors, the Giostra Sulmona is a must-see cultural event that offers a thrilling and immersive experience into Sulmona’s storied past. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of medieval traditions, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, the Giostra Sulmona promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Italy’s heritage.

Why You Should Attend Sulmona’s Cultural Events

The Giostra Sulmona and Cordesca are essential parts of Sulmona’s identity. These events offer visitors a chance to step back in time. You can experience the passion of the locals and immerse yourself in the town’s vibrant culture. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a family, or someone who loves a good celebration, Sulmona’s cultural events won’t disappoint.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Stunning Costumes: Be amazed by the colorful and detailed Renaissance-inspired costumes worn by participants.
• Exciting Competitions: Watch the jousting tournament or the children’s ring-race competition up close.
• Historical Immersion: Learn about the region’s rich history and cultural traditions through reenactments and performances.
• Family-Friendly: The Cordesca is especially perfect for families with children, allowing younger visitors to enjoy and participate in the fun.

Practical Information for Visitors

• When to Visit:
  • Cordesca: May 31st and June 1st, 2025
  • Giostra Sulmona: July 26th and 27th, 2025
• Where to Stay: There are plenty of charming bed and breakfasts, boutique hotels, and traditional guesthouses throughout Sulmona. Consider staying in the town center to be close to the event venues.
• How to Get There: Sulmona is easily accessible by car, train, or bus from major cities like Rome and Pescara. If you’re traveling from further afield, the nearest airports are in Pescara and Rome.
• Ticket Information: Tickets for the Giostra Sulmona and other events can be purchased in advance online or at designated booths in Sulmona. Make sure to check the official event websites for up-to-date details.

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Sulmona’s Cultural Events

1. What is the Cordesca in Sulmona?

The Cordesca is a children’s version of Sulmona’s famous Giostra Cavalleresca jousting tournament. It features kids aged 8-14 participating in a historical parade and a race to capture rings at the Pallozzi Municipal Stadium.

2. When is the Giostra Sulmona 2025?

The Giostra Sulmona will take place on July 26th and 27th, 2025, with festivities beginning with a grand historical parade, followed by the exciting jousting competition.

3. Where can I watch the Giostra Sulmona?

The Giostra Sulmona is held in the town’s main square, Piazza Maggiore. The jousting tournament takes place at the nearby competition grounds, where you can witness knights in action.

4. Are these cultural events family-friendly?

Absolutely! Both the Giostra Sulmona and Cordesca are family-friendly events, with plenty of activities for children and families to enjoy. The Cordesca especially is designed with younger participants in mind.

5. How do I buy tickets for the events?

Tickets for the Giostra Sulmona and other cultural events can be purchased online or directly in Sulmona. Check the official event websites for more details.

Sulmona’s cultural events are an unforgettable way to experience the town’s rich history and traditions. So, mark your calendars and get ready for an exciting journey into one of Italy’s most charming and historic destinations!