The Donkeys of Civita

Donkeys, symbol of our history.
Once upon a time, they were indispensable not only for rural work—among the vegetable gardens, vineyards, and olive groves—but also for transporting food and basic necessities. Before the bridge was built in the 1960s, donkeys were the only means of transport to Civita di Bagnoregio, bearing the burden of daily life and the small local economy. Loyal and tireless animals, they were part of the family, so much so that they had names like "La Peppa" or "La Rufina." 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 female donkeys around the square three times—hence the name "Tonna," meaning roundabout in the local dialect. A playful and passionate challenge held in memory of Mary Most Holy Liberator and the Most Holy Crucifix , which still unites the entire community today. It is from this profound bond that our ceramic and cloth donkeys are born, emblems and living reminders of our tradition.