The Donkeys of Civita di Bagnoregio

Even today, donkeys are the protagonists of one of Civita's most cherished traditions: the Palio della Tonna . Every year, on the first Sunday in June and the second in September, Piazza San Donato comes alive for this historic race. Jockeys, divided by district, ride donkeys around the square three times—hence the name "Tonna," meaning "roundabout" in local dialect. A playful and passionate challenge held in memory of Mary Most Holy Liberator and the Most Holy Crucifix , it still unites the entire community today. It is from this deep bond that our ceramic and cloth donkeys are born, emblems and living reminders of our tradition.

Ceramic donkeys from Civita

Civita Donkeys in Cloth

The Donkeys of Civita di Bagnoregio

Alongside donkeys, sheep also tell an important part of our history. Many years ago, a community from Esterzili , Sardinia, moved to Bagnoregio, bringing with them traditions, customs, and their most recognizable symbol: the sheep.
The twinning between Bagnoregio and Esterzili has lasted thirty years, and the ceramic Civita sheep was created to commemorate this bond and all the people who, coming from far away, have become part of our community.

A small figure that represents roots, hospitality, and a union that continues to this day.

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