24 June is one of the most important days in Florence’s calendar: the feast day of St John the Baptist – patron saint of the city. In the piazza outside Santa Croce, a unique and fierce competition of ancient origin comes to its conclusion.

With some resemblance to football, calcio storico is a very physical, tough game where teams from the four quarters of the city battle for the title each year: the Blues, the Whites, the Greens, and the Reds.

The final is preceded by a costumed procession of splendid flag-throwers and musicians.

After the game the city comes alive with outdoor events and the traditional fireworks display which is best enjoyed from all along the river that extends right through the heart of this spectacular city.