There is a moment in Massa Marittima when the breath of thousands of people holds in unison. It is the whistling of the arrow as it cuts through the air, launched from the heavy crossbows loaded by hand by the crossbowmen of the three Terzieri. The Balestro del Girifalco is not just a historical reenactment: it is the very soul of this medieval town beating in the heart of the Metalliferous Hills.
If you're staying in Borgo Etrusco at the end of May, this is an experience you definitely won't want to miss. Here's everything you need to know to enjoy the competition between Cittanova, Cittavecchia, and Borgo.
The Magic of May 24: An Age-Old Challenge
Twice a year (in May and August), the stunning Piazza del Duomo is transported back to the 14th century. Twenty-four crossbowmen compete to hit the “badger,” a target placed 36 meters away. Their aim is pinpoint, the tension is palpable, and the colors of the flag-waving fill the sky with an unforgettable spectacle.
Attending the Balestro means immersing yourself in an atmosphere filled with the roll of drums, the blast of trumpets, and the pride of a community reconnecting with its roots.
Why Massa Marittima is unique
In addition to the race itself, it is the setting that takes your breath away. The square, considered one of the most beautiful in Italy for its harmonious asymmetry, is home to the Cathedral of San Cerbone, a Romanesque-Gothic masterpiece that seems to watch the race from the top of its staircase.
📸 Editor's Pick: The Geometry of the Square
Forget side shots: if you want to capture the essence of the race, you need to focus on the perspective. Side portraits are nice, but the real magic happens along the shooting line.
My secret: Position yourself right on the steps of the cathedral. From this elevated vantage point, you’ll have the perfect view of the arrow’s flight from the archer’s bow all the way to the target.
The technical tip: Use a mild telephoto lens. It will allow you to compress the perspective, bringing the target “right up close” to the crossbowman. In a single shot, you’ll be able to capture both the intense concentration of the shooter and the tension of the target as it awaits the shot. That’s where you see the true spirit of the crossbow.
🌸 Get your vacation started: offers from Borgo Etrusco
Attending the Balestro is the perfect opportunity to discover the Maremma in bloom. We’ve put together a series of special offers to make your stay even more enjoyable:
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European Squares (April 14–21): Enjoy the event in Follonica with a 25% DISCOUNT (minimum 3 nights).
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May Day Long Weekend (April 24 – May 6): Experience the tradition of the May Beetles with 25% OFF (minimum 3 nights).
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Long Weekend of June 2 (May 30 – June 3): The perfect weekend combining the beach and history, with 25% OFF (minimum 3 nights).
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Early Summer (May 23 – July 18): Get the season off to a great start with a 20% DISCOUNT (minimum 4 nights).
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Cashback Offer (June 1 – July 31): The smart choice. Pay the full rate and receive a 30% BONUS to use toward your next stay (minimum 3 nights)!
Can't find your dates? Don't worry—we always have our Early Booking Offer: a guaranteed 10% discount on any dates for stays of at least 3 nights.
Come experience the history of Massa Marittima and relax in our pool after your tour. We look forward to seeing you!
👉 [CLICK HERE TO SEE ALL OFFERS AND BOOK]
Come experience history—we’re waiting for you with open arms (and the pool all set!).
