The Crossbow of the Falcon

The “Balestro del Girifalco” is one of the most famous historical reenactments in Tuscany, taking place in Massa Marittima twice a year, on the fourth Sunday in May and on August 14. This fascinating event consists of a crossbow target shooting competition, in which the three districts of the city – Cittanuova, Cittavecchia and Borgo – compete for a prize, a hand-painted silk banner. The competition is preceded by an evocative historical procession with over 150 participants in medieval costume, who parade through the streets of the city to the Cathedral of San Cerbone. The arrows are shot from a distance of 36 meters toward the target, and the crossbowman who hits the area closest to the center wins the victory and a golden arrow.