In 1366, Marquardo von Randeck, Patriarch of Aquileia, arrived in Cividale del Friuli, a very important event for the city. The community celebrated the event with great honors and solemn ceremonies. According to tradition, Marquardo, who was both the spiritual and temporal leader of the Patriarchate of Aquileia, took possession of Cividale and its territory, and introduced the Mass of the Sword, a ceremony of Germanic origin. This ceremony combined the ancient liturgies of the Church of Aquileia and Cividale from the 12th century with political and civil rites of imperial inspiration. Since then, every year, the rite is repeated on the day of the Epiphany. Since 1984, at the end of the mass, hundreds of reenactors recreate the solemn entrance of Patriarch Marquardo into Cividale, paying homage to this historical tradition.

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It is a deeply felt and important tradition for the city. It is a historical competition held in honor of the patron saint, San Donato, and represents a moment of great celebration and local identity. During the palio, the different districts or neighborhoods of Cividale compete in various trials and games, often with historical reenactments, period costumes, and moments of spectacle. It is an occasion to celebrate the roots and cultural heritage of the city, involving the entire community and also attracting many visitors.

In 2025 the Palio is celebrated on August 22-24 and 24

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