BRAVIO DELLE BOTTI

Every year, on the last Sunday in August, in honour of Saint John the Baptist, patron saint of the city, a very special race, based on medieval tradition, takes place in Montepulciano! The eight old districts ("contrade") of the proud wine-producing city make gigantic wine barrels roll through the steep alleys of the historic centre. The public, very numerous, and all the Montepulcians are waiting for the competitors in Piazza Grande, in front of the cathedral. Time is as if frozen during this astonishing barrel race.