The Calcio Storico Fiorentino has very ancient origins and just like Roman harpastum, it was played in teams of 27, using both feet and hands. Goals could be scored by throwing the ball over a designated spot on the perimeter of the field. The playing field is a giant sand pit with a narrow slit constituting the goal, running the width of each end. Nowadays it is a challenge between 4 districts of the city, each bearing a colour:  the "Whites" of Santo Spirito, the "Blue" Santa Croce, the "Reds" of Santa Maria Novella and the "Green" St. John. On Easter day, before the Explosion of the Cart, the rounds are drawn.Three matches are played each year in Piazza Santa Croce, in the 3rd week of June. The four teams face each other in the first two games. Matches take place in the costumes of the sixteenth century in memory and evocation of a particular moment in  the history of Florence and also the full parade that precedes the Calcio takes place in the costumes going back to the time of the  Florentine Republic.
The winners go to the final, which occurs on June 24, the day of the Saint Patron of Florence, San Giovanni ( St John ). That evening the victory and the patron saint are celebrated with the famous FOCHI OF SAINT JOHN, the fabulous fireworks that animate and color the skies of Florence.

It 'a unique show that is worth attend to at least once in your life!
It takes place on Piazza santa Croce, 10/15 minutes walking distance from Hotel Loggiato dei Serviti.