The Day of Saint Anthony Abbot is approaching, the day on which the 'Battagliaccia' is commemorated.

On Wednesday 17 January at 6 p.m., in the church of Sant'Antonio in Pisa, the traditional celebration of the Day of Saint Anthony Abbot will be held, the day on which the so-called 'battagliaccia' (or 'battle') of the Gioco del Ponte was disputed in ancient times.

The initiative, now in its 53rd year, kicked off a tradition stubbornly carried forward by the historic and late lamented president Umberto Moschini, which has never stopped and led, in 1982, to the rediscovery and restoration of the Gioco del Ponte. It is still today a moment of great significance, of restart and confrontation between the people of the Game and the enthusiasts in projection of the challenge on the bridge in June.

The propitiatory Holy Mass to be held in the Church of St. Anthony (located in the square of the same name) will be attended by city authorities, the Municipality's Banner and a representation of the Game in historical costumes. 

Citizens are invited, starting at 9 a.m., to display the Pisan flag on public and private buildings.