Calcio Fiorentino

An illustration of the Calcio Fiorentino field and starting positions, from a 1688
book by Pietro di Lorenzo Bini.
Main article: Calcio Fiorentino

In the 16th century, the city of Florence celebrated the period between Epiphany
and Lent by playing a game which today is known as "calcio storico" ("historic
kickball") in the Piazza Santa Croce. The young aristocrats of the city would dress
up in fine silk costumes and embroil themselves in a violent form of football. For
example, calcio players could punch, shoulder charge, and kick opponents. Blows
below the belt were allowed. The game is said to have originated as a military
training exercise. In 1580, Count Giovanni de' Bardi di Vernio wrote Discorso sopra
'l giuoco del Calcio Fiorentino. This is sometimes said to be the earliest code of
rules for any football game. The game was not played after January 1739 (until it
was revived in May 1930).