I am now back home in Brisbane for a while. I was unable to attend the crossbow event on Sunday in Bagni di Lucca, but our friend Sheila was there and took some great photos for us.
The competion was held in the Contessa Casalini Park this year and the balestrieri dressed up in their best for a great day of crossbow. Here is some of the fun.
Francis from London to Longoio and Beyond has more on the day.
Bella Bagni di Lucca 
It was a great event, even if , besides the participants, very few people attended; however there were competitors from Genoa, Orvietto, Lucca, Ghivizzano… And quite a few more places. There was a huge lunch held at del Hilario’s restaurant.
Unfortunately, I had to miss it, as the high temperatures took their toll on me, but Rafael had a great time participating for the first time in the competition and being presented with a medallion as the first “straniero” joining the Vicaria. I did not have the heart to tell them that he has got back his Italian citizenship….
I do hope that more people will come to watch the next event on the first Sunday of September.
What a pity you couldn’t be there. I would love to have seen Raphael in action. I wish more people would show up to watch the competition. Why don’t the locals take an interest in what goes on in their own town?
I think they are too busy gossiping!
One of these days I hope to see may first festival like this.
I have been 4 times to this event and I love it. These small authentic local events are fun.
I too love these small local events – flag waving, crossbow, longbow … The participants are usually highly skilled and have obviously practised for ages. Maybe your crossbowmen should get some children involved somehow to bring the genitori along?
Oh wow, looks like a fun day, my kids would have loved it! We’re going to be near you in the next few weeks: your blog made me want to discover the area 🙂
If I was around I would love to show you some of our area. I hope you enjoy your visit.
This was a fun day. The cannon going off was an interesting highlight, and not one I’m sure I ever got used to.
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