The Marostica chess game: an event not to be missed

In the heart of Veneto, nestled among the rolling hills north of Vicenza , lies Marostica, a city rich in history and tradition. This small town, which has just over 14,000 inhabitants, is famous throughout the world for its scenic game of living chess .

However, the village offers much more than this extraordinary event, its medieval city walls, which envelops the historic center like an embrace, the two castles - one upper and one lower - and the picturesque cobbled streets. The Lower Castle , located at the entrance to the city, and the Upper Castle , which dominates the valley from atop a hill, are two of the main attractions. The walls that connect the two castles offer a suggestive and panoramic walk.

Marostica is also known for the cultivation of cherries , which every year sees a festival dedicated to this delicious fruit and its PGI denomination. Walking around the surroundings, visitors can explore vineyards, orchards and picturesque villages that seem to have stood still in time, offering a taste of the authentic Venetian lifestyle.

The living chess legend of Marostica

The tradition of the Marostica Chess Game has its roots in a fascinating legend that dates back to 1454. According to legend, two young nobles, Rinaldo d'Angarano and Vieri da Vallonara , fell in love with the same woman, the beautiful Lionora , daughter of the castellan of Marostica, Taddeo Parisio. The two contenders, as often happened at the time, challenged each other to a duel for the young woman's hand. However, Parisio, a wise and far-sighted man, wanted to avoid bloodshed and proposed an alternative solution. Instead of challenging each other with weapons, the two would play a game of chess , the winner of which would obtain Lionora's hand, while the loser would marry her younger sister Oldrada.

The match would have taken place in a spectacular way, with living pieces, i.e. men in armour, and a great fireworks display as a backdrop. Since then, every two years, Marostica revives this unique tradition in the world, with a theatrical performance involving more than 600 participants in period costumes .

The chessboard and the frame of Piazza Castello

The epicenter of the Living Chess Game is Piazza Castello , a magnificent rectangular square, paved with a black and white checkerboard pattern, which serves as the stage for this spectacular representation. On one side of the square stands the Lower Castle, which with its medieval towers adds a further touch of grandeur to the event. The stands are set up around the square to accommodate spectators, who can watch one of the most evocative shows in Italy.

The match is not just an event related to chess, but a real historical re-enactment, enriched by medieval music, dances and parades . The participants, wearing period clothing, interpret the roles of the legend with great skill, while horses, soldiers and nobles parade in front of the spectators. The lights and sounds help create a magical atmosphere, which transports spectators back in time to the 15th century. The event today is so eagerly awaited that it requires tickets to be booked in advance and seats to enjoy the show in complete tranquility.

Experience Marostica with a short-term rental

Marostica and its living chess game are just one of the many wonders that Veneto has to offer. This region, famous for its rich history, art and gastronomy, offers countless possibilities for exploration. From cities of art such as Venice and Verona, to the breathtaking landscapes of the Dolomites and the Venetian countryside, Veneto is a destination that knows how to enchant every visitor.

For those who want to live an authentic experience, booking an apartment online in advance is the perfect solution, this solution allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture, discover the authentic flavors of the area and explore every hidden corner of this splendid region. Experiencing the Veneto through a short-term rental means enjoying an authentic experience, which combines tradition, nature and history in an unforgettable mix.