Every two years, the main square of Marostica into a giant chessboard: Over 650 performers in magnificent Renaissance costumes lead the Chess Game — a chess game with live players that tells a medieval love story. Against the backdrop of two castles, a spectacular show unfolds, featuring torches, fanfares, and fireworks. This guide will show you how the spectacle unfolds—and how you can combine it with a few days in the Veneto region.
The Marostica Chess Game at a Glance
- What: A chess game with live pieces, reenacted by over 650 costumed participants (Chess Game)
- Where: Piazza Castello (Piazza degli Scacchi) in Marostica, Province of Vicenza (Veneto)
- When: only in even-numbered years (every two years), on two weekends in September; in 2026, on September 4–5 and 11–12, at 9 p.m. each night
- Duration: About 2 hours per performance; amphitheater with ~3,600 numbered seats
- Background: A love story from the year 1454
- Recommended length of stay: 2–3 days
- Nearest airport: Venice or Verona (about 1 hour each)
- Insider tip: Tickets for the evening performances are in high demand—book early
Why is the Marostica chess set worth buying?
It’s a spectacle straight out of a historical film: On the giant black-and-white checkerboard in front of the Castello Inferiore, queens, knights, pawns, and horses move like real chess pieces—commanded by heralds, accompanied by drummers, flag-wavers, and fireworks. The entire city becomes a stage.
What makes it so appealing: This isn't just theater; it's a celebration of a genuine tradition. The Chess Game It dates back to a legend from 1454 and takes place only once every two years—which makes a visit there something special.
For travelers, the festival is the perfect opportunity to explore the often-overlooked hinterland of the Veneto There's plenty to discover: medieval towns, Palladian architecture, and Bassano del Grappa—the "city of grappa"—right next door. Read on to find out exactly what's happening and how to plan your visit.
How is a game of chess played?
The performance follows a set dramatic structure. Here are the key elements you should be familiar with:
The Legend of 1454
According to legend, two noblemen were vying for the hand of Lionora, the castle lord’s daughter. Instead of a bloody duel, her father ordered a game of chess: the winner would marry Lionora, and the loser would marry her younger sister. It is precisely this game that is reenacted today.
Living Figures on the Giant Board
On the 20-by-20-meter chessboard in the piazza, people and horses serve as pieces. Two chess masters call out the moves, and the pieces move solemnly from square to square.
Parade, flag-wavers, and fireworks
Heros, knights, noble ladies, and musicians parade around the battlefield; there are flag-waving performances (Sbandieratori), and the finale features fireworks over the castles.
Only once every two years
The grand performance takes place exclusively in even-numbered years—in 2026, over four evenings spread across two weekends. In the years in between, smaller performances keep the tradition alive.
Insider tip: The seats in the upper sections offer the best view of the entire stage and the choreography.
How do you get to Marostica?
Marostica is located in northern Veneto, about 30 km from Vicenza. By Airplane You'll land in Venice or Verona (about an hour each) and continue on from there. By Train you'll reach Bassano del Grappa or Vicenza; from there, you can take a bus or taxi to Marostica. By Car You can get here via the A31 (Dueville exit) or the SS248 from Vicenza or Bassano.
How will you get around on the night of the event? The historic center around the piazza will be closed off during the performance—be sure to plan on walking.
Where is the best place to park in Marostica?
There are paid parking spaces around the Old Town and at the city gates. On game days, the parking areas near the city center fill up quickly—arrive early or use the designated parking lots on the outskirts of town, which are just a short walk from the piazza.
Discover Marostica and the Surrounding Area
Marostica is a medieval gem: Two castles dominate the small town—the Lower Castle right on Piazza degli Scacchi and the Castello Superiore on a hill, surrounded by a city wall in the Scaliger style. The famous checkerboard pattern made of cobblestones is located in the main piazza. Marostica is also known for its Cherries (Marostica Cherry IGP).
Right next door, you'll find Bassano del Grappa with the Ponte degli Alpini, a wooden bridge designed by Palladio, its historic grappa distilleries, and a charming old town. Just about seven kilometers away, it’s well worth the detour, and it offers a glimpse of the Sights in Bassano del Grappa You can find this in our guide. The plateau of Asiago with its cheese and the city of Palladio Vicenza (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
If you want to see more of the region, combine your visit with a trip to Verona or Venice—both are about an hour away. That way, your chess trip turns into a varied weekend in Veneto.
Where's the best place to stay in Marostica?
Marostica is small—it’s worth booking early for the game weekend, including in nearby Bassano del Grappa. These six accommodations cater to a variety of needs:
Read more about theTopic
- Hotel Due Mori – Marostica, downtown · €€ · stylish, just a few steps from the piazza
- Albergo San Luca – Marostica · €€ · reliable and centrally located
- Bonotto Hotel Belvedere – Bassano del Grappa, 4 stars · €€€ · elegant in the old town
- Hotel Palladio – Bassano del Grappa · €€ · modern and easily accessible
- Ca‘ Sette Hotel – Bassano del Grappa, 4 stars · €€€ · Design hotel with a restaurant
- Agritourism in the Surrounding Area – around Marostica · € · rural, ideal for those traveling by car
Want to compare the location of the hotels directly or see more options? Here is an interactive map with live availability and price comparison:
Top Accommodations in and around Marostica
Where's the best place to eat in Marostica?
Vicenza's cuisine is hearty: Give it a try Baccalà alla Vicentina (stockfish), bigoli pasta, and—when in season—sweet cherries from Marostica. Pair them with a glass of wine from Veneto or a grappa from Bassano. These three restaurants represent three different price ranges:
- Ristorante Due Mori – in the city center · €€€ · regional cuisine in a stylish setting
- Osteria Madonnetta – Old Town · €€ · traditional Vicenza dishes
- Trattoria in the city center – Marostica · € · down-to-earth and authentic
Restaurant and hotel recommendations are based on current reviews and market research (as of June 2026). Prices, hours, and availability are subject to change—please check the current situation before your visit.
When is the best time to visit Marostica?
The game of chess falls under the September – an ideal time, when the height of summer is over and the evenings are mild. Since the event takes place only once every two years, it’s worth making sure to mark the date on your calendar.
In general, Spring (April through June) and Autumn (September, October) are the best times to visit Marostica and the Veneto region. Late May through June is also cherry season, featuring the Mostra della Ciliegia. Midsummer can get hot, and winter is quiet—at that time, the focus shifts to the nearby cities of Vicenza and Bassano.
What You Should Know About the Marostica Chess Game
To make sure your visit goes well, here are some honest tips:
- Only in even-numbered years. This major theatrical production takes place every two years—check in advance to see if it's scheduled for this season.
- Get your tickets early. The numbered seats in the amphitheater are highly sought after and often sell out weeks in advance.
- Evening event. The performances start around 9 p.m. — be sure to bring a jacket for those cool September evenings.
- A small town. Accommodations in Marostica are limited; if necessary, consider staying in Bassano del Grappa or Vicenza.
- Important: Dates, start times, and the program may vary depending on the edition—be sure to check them on the official event website before your trip.
Chess, Castles, the Renaissance: Is Marostica Worth a Visit?
Yes—for anyone who wants to experience history come to life, the Partita a Scacchi is a highlight. The moment when the living chess pieces move across the giant board by torchlight is truly unique. Who might find it less worthwhile? For anyone who travels on a whim and doesn’t want to book tickets in advance—this grand spectacle takes place only once every two years. But if you’re looking for medieval charm, picturesque towns, and the authentic Veneto, you should add Marostica to your list—combined with Bassano, Vicenza, and a good grappa, it makes for a well-rounded trip.
Map: Marostica, Veneto
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About the Marostica Chess Game
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