Leap of the Countess

Second weekend of August

One of the most unusual festivals in the Tuscan Maremma, the Salto della Contessa reconstructs the legendary death of Pia dei Tolomei, recounted by Dante Alighieri in La Divina Commedia.

Centuries ago, the young Pia was kidnapped and locked up in the Castello di Pietra in Gavorrano. In the story, she falls to her death from the highest tower at the hands, according to Dante, of her husband, a nobleman named Nello, who wanted to marry the local powerful Margaret Aldobrandeschi.

The festival begins with the division of the city. One half sides with Nello’s Pannocchieschi family in red and gold, while the other chooses Pia’s Tolemei in silver and blue.

Every person living in Gavorrano still wears a surprisingly convincing medieval costume today. First we celebrate the traditional Maremma cuisine and the customs of the medieval table. There is also medieval music and dance.

After the party, the village gathers to stage the play (the role of Pia is always highly coveted). The party ends just before sunset with the brutal death of Pia, who is dragged by two guards to the highest tower in Gavorrano and thrown into darkness.

It’s not often you see Dante’s words and local legend come to life so faithfully and vibrantly. Plus the food is great and the party atmosphere is addictive!

For more information and some splendid photos of the party, consult the Gavorrano Pro Loco web page.