Come to Florence, you can study the Italian language and live the summer in Florence, participating in the great events that are the passion of the people in Florence, Pisa, Siena, Arezzo!

It begins in June with the Calcio Storico Fiorentino, considered one of the 300 most beautiful festivals of the planet and defined by Chip Conley (a great connoisseur of the worldwide celebrations) “The most unusual sporting event in the world.” Yes, “unusual”, I really think it suits this event. Imagine an immense field of sand in one of the most beautiful and elegant squares of Florence, in front of the imposing marble facade of the Church of Santa Croce and at the foot of the statue of Dante?

Just on that field, two teams of 27 kickings (players) dressed in historical costumes, they collide while  trying to take the ball to the opponent’s groundstrokes to put it in the net “hunt” (goal). The body clash is often violent, in which the opponents  launch and block with fists and feet, struggling on the ground and in the air. Popular photos of dirty kicking sand and blood, with torn shirts to shreds! As a victory reward, the winning team gets the symbolic gesture of a Chianina heifer (from which we get the famous Florentine steak). The main point of the show is not only the field but the parade and flag-wavers preceding the game, the warmth of the fans who incite the teams: whites (santo spirito), the Greens (San Giovanni), red (santa maria novella), blue (santa croce).

The game has its roots in ancient times and it is certain that in the second half of the fifteenth century was wildly popular among young Florentines. Among the famous people who have practiced the game we have Piero II de’ Medici (son of Lorenzo the Magnificent), Cosimo I de’ Medici, Giulio de’ Medici (Pope Clement VII). The most popular game undoubtedly was played in February 17, 1530, date inspired on the modern re-enactment, when the Florentines, besieged by the imperial troops of Charles IV decided to play the game as a sign of contempt and disregard for the assailants. this is not only a popular tradition, but a symbolic event that embodies the spirit of Florence, lived with great participation from the city.

The final game of June 24 this year will be between White and Blue. Do you want to know who I will cheer for? I can give you a clue: I live on the south part of the Arno River. Try to guess!