Once a year in June, the city of Florence hosts the playing of a game which is a type of football that was started centuries ago. It is believed that the first of these games took place in the Middle Ages and was first played in the piazza of Santa Croce.

The games coincide with the June 24 celebration of the birthdate of the city’s patron saint, San Giovanni Battista.

The first thing that happens is that the entire piazza is covered with sand to form the base for the upcoming football matches.

I got tickets this year and I’m so happy I did!

I loved the pre-game warm up and the energy of the spectators for both teams. You were green or red, nothing in between.

Of course it is Florence and it is a historic re-enactment basically, but with contemporary blood, sweat and tears. The flag throwers and other marching costumed people, as well as a white ox with a corona around its neck, put on a pregame show.

The onlookers cheered on their teams!

The music, the costumes, the show, the cheering, the energy! We were ready for something magnificent!

We were seated in the green section, for the Baptistry, while the opposing team was seated in the sun in front of the basilica. We certainly had the best seats, thanks to the shade of the late afternoon. The red team represents the Borgo of Santa Maria Novella. We were at the semi finals.

I’ll be back soon with a final post on this event and my reflections on it. Alla prossima!