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Palio of the Sea, 15 August, held in Castiglione della Pescaia, an ancient seaside town in the province of Grosseto,Tuscany.

In summer the four quarters of the town: Marina, Castello, Piazza and Portaccia, set up a Palio Marinaro. The "Mariners Palio", a competition of boats with oars which takes place on the Bruna River, preceded by historic parade.

On 15 August Castiglione della Pescaia, the sea becomes the center of the city. After a blessing of all the fishing boats of the port, a long day of marine festivity is opened, it has its apex with the regatta of boats on the river with participation of young people of the four city quarters.

Castiglione della Pescaia

Castiglione della Pescaia is a well known bathing centre on the coast near Grosseto. Of Roman origin, it might correspond to ancient Salebru, the centre cited by Roman itinerary sources. The medieval village developed around the castle on top of the hill, while the modern part developed along the coast. In the tenth century it underwent Pisa's domination, and it was in that period that the first big scarp-based tower was built on the hill top. The most notable attraction is the ancient remains in Vetulonia, one of the leading Etruscan cities.

Today Castiglione della Pescaia is well known for its beautiful beaches. The frazioni of Punta Ala and Riva del Mare are beach resorts with international appeal, catering mostly to tourists from Central and Northern Europe.

For more information:

• Castiglione della Pescaia