The reenactments and activities were designed to reflect the customs, architecture, and daily life of the time, providing an opportunity for visitors to step back in history and gain a deeper appreciation for the heritage of Castellanza.

[4] In addition to commemorating the city's history, the Palio integrates local customs, sayings, and folklore, reflecting the hystorical landscape of Castellanza.

Commonly used expressions, traditions, and proverbs exchanged during the Palio reflect daily life from past centuries, revealing the values and beliefs of the Castellanza community.

[5] Aside from historical figures, local legends about knights, saints, and mythical protectors of Castellanza are shared with the community, adding a mystical element to the festival.

These legends recount the stories of early settlers defending their lands, miraculous events attributed to local saints, and tales of brave community leaders.

[7] The Palio di Castellanza incorporated notable historical figures and local legends that played a role in shaping the city's identity.

[10] Key locations associated with the Palio include the Thermal Power Plant, built in 1904 by the “Anonima Lombarda for Electricity,” which highlights Castellanza's industrial development.

The festival's temporary revitalization in the 21st century was an example of the town's efforts to maintain its connection to historical roots while supporting local traditions and cultural activities.

This edition illustrated the historical clash between the two great powers, with actors and re-enactors portraying the soldiers, weapons, and strategies from this period in European history.

During these two days, the city was divided into eight districts, called "contrade," where children participated in team competitions to honor the festival's historical significance.

The Palio di Castellanza featured a historical encampment at Parco Università LIUC, offering visitors an immersive journey into the past.

Highlights included themed guided tours of the camp, which showcased soldiers, artisans, merchants, musicians, and jesters in period costumes.

Evening events, such as the Gladiator Tournament, enhanced the historical ambiance, creating an engaging blend of education and entertainment for visitors of all ages.

While the Palio di Siena is known for its intense horse race held in the city's central square, where riders representing various contrade compete in a highly charged and chaotic environment, the Palio di Castellanza emphasized different forms of historical celebration, including marching bands, flag-waving performances by the flag bearers (in Italian "sbandieratori") of each district, medieval battles, and local games.

The event concluded with an awards ceremony for both the winners of the games and local shopkeepers who excel in decorating their windows to reflect the colors of their districts.

[18]The Palio di Castellanza was rich in symbolic representation and iconography, using visuals such as flags, banners, and emblems that reflect the city's medieval past.

[19] The annual procession of banners during the festival allowed each district to parade its symbolic heritage, contributing to a sense of pageantry and rivalry as each "contrada" sought to uphold its pride and legacy.

For example, large murals of famous historical figures from Castellanza or scenes from local stories are visible, transforming art into an engaging medium for conveying the town's narratives.

According to studies conducted by Italy's Ministry of Culture, festivals such as the Palio play a pivotal role in fostering strong community bonds and enhancing civic pride.

[24] Local businesses have consistently supported the event through sponsorships, while the town council has collaborated with cultural organizations to ensure its smooth execution.

The primary concern revolved around alleged historical inaccuracies in the event, which claimed to celebrate Lombard traditions and the era of Frederick Barbarossa.

The event's financial cost, estimated at €34,000, further fueled controversy, with some questioning the use of public funds for what they viewed as an ideologically driven and historically inaccurate celebration.