Want To See an Ancient Italian Football Game? Go To Florence, Italy

Cathedral of Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo, Firenze, Italy
Cathedral of Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo, Firenze, Italy Photo by Ali Nuredini on Unsplash

Sports fans, this is for you! Culture and history buffs? You’ll also love this. Calcio Storico is an ancient form of football that dates back to the 16th century. If you find yourself in Florence, Italy, a visit to this match might just end up being the highlight of your trip. Here’s everything you need to know about this unique sport. 

A Unique Blend of Sports

If you enjoy soccer, rugby, or even wrestling, you’ll love watching Calcio Storico. The game features two teams of 27 players each, who battle to get a ball into the opposing team’s net by any means necessary. Expect high-energy tackles, fierce competition, and a whole lot of intensity as players use both strategy and brute force to win.

@emilianobianchi91 🔴☀️⚜️ #calciostoricofiorentino #rossisantamarianovella #finale #2024 #campioni #firenze ♬ suono originale – Emiliano

A Glimpse into History

Calcio Storico originated in the 1500s as a way for Florentine noblemen to show off their physical prowess, and it has evolved into a beloved tradition. Players today wear Renaissance-era costumes, creating a dramatic and colorful spectacle that feels like stepping back in time.

@belong.florence It’s Calcio Storico szn, babe!💥🤜 Calcio Storico is an annual traditional Florentine game played between the four historical districts of Florence, Italy. It all dates back to the 15th century, with players wearing traditional coloured clothes that represent their team names: Reds, Whites, Blues and Greens. ❤️🤍💙💚 This year, semi-finals are set to take place on the sand-covered field in Piazza Santa Croce on June 1st and 2nd, with the final happening on the 15th. Don’t miss it! 😉 #calciostorico #calciostoricofiorentino #firenze #florencetown #florenceitaly🇮🇹 #italyflorence ♬ vlog, chill out, calm daily life(1370843) – SUNNY HOOD STUDIO

A Cultural Experience Like No Other

If you come for a game, you’ll see locals gathering to cheer on their neighborhood teams. The event is marked by parades, music, and a sense of camaraderie that fills the streets. It’s an immersive cultural experience you won’t forget.

@firenzetv LA COREOGRAFIA DEI ROSSI DI SANTA MARIA NOVELLA IN OCCASIONE DELLA FINALE DEL CALCIO STORICO FIORENTINO 2024 🔴 #calciostorico #finale #calciostoricofiorentino #calciostorico2024 #firenzetv #firenze #tradizionifiorentine #toscanatv #rossisantamarianovella #calciostoricofiorentino2024 ♬ suono originale – Firenze Tv