August 12, 2009 – August 14, 2009 Norman Palio in Piazza Armerina Aug 09, 2009

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Plutia is the archaic name of a Sicilian town called Piazza Armerina. In the middle of August there will be a Palio holiday here. The holiday has its roots in the Middle Ages and as of this day is considered the oldest holiday in all of Southern Italy. This holiday takes place every year between August 12th and 14th. The holiday is dedicated to Madonna Santissima Maria della Vittoria. The Palio is dedicated to the Norman conquest of Sicily in 1060 under the leadership of Ruggero d'Altavilla. Pope Alexander of Rome gave Ruggero d'Altavilla a Byzantine icon depicting the image of Mother Mary, and painted, according to the legend, by Saint Lucas himself.

The icon was a symbol of the blessing given by the Pope to Ruggero d'Altavilla, in order for the later to take the throne and undertake a liberation campaign from the Sarasin invaders. In 1063 the famous (in Italy) battle of Cerami took place. The holy papal flag was believed to possess mystical powers and became an object of popular veneration ever since the multiple victories of the thirty year war were finally won.

Participants of the Norman Palio, which lasts three days, are handed weapons and blessings for the battle. Combatants are also given a lamp to be placed at the altar where that very holy icon of Santa Maria della Vittoria is kept. Following the initial preparations is the ceremonial triumphant entry of Norman troops into the city, and the actual medieval tournament called "Quinta del Saracino". The tournament consists from a whole list of contests designed to test the dexterity of five competing Knight from the four historical quarters of the town. By the end of the tournament a cortege passes through the main streets of the town, gloriously carrying the flag and honoring the winners.