In 1325, two of Italy’s wealthiest city-states, Bologna and Modena, went to war over a humble oak bucket. Yes, a bucket. The absurd conflict, known as the War of the Bucket, began when Modenese soldiers raided Bologna, snatching a wooden pail from a well as a trophy. What followed was a bloody battle involving thousands of soldiers, territorial skirmishes, and a legacy of pettiness that still amuses historians today.
But the bucket was just the tipping point. The real cause was a centuries-old feud between the Guelphs (pro-Pope) and Ghibellines (pro-Holy Roman Empire). Bologna, a Guelph stronghold, and Modena, a Ghibelline bastion, had been clashing for decades over trade routes, taxes, and which city had better pasta (probably). The stolen bucket became a symbol of pride—or perhaps a really passive-aggressive prank.
The conflict escalated quickly. Bologna demanded the bucket’s return. Modena refused. So, Bologna marched 30,000 troops toward Modena, only to be met by 7,000 Modenese soldiers at the Battle of Zappolino. Despite outnumbering their rivals, Bologna’s army was routed, suffering 2,000 casualties. Modena not only kept the bucket but also seized several Bologna castles. The bucket, now a war hero, was displayed in Modena’s cathedral, where it remains today—still unwashed, presumably.
Historians argue the war wasn’t just about the bucket. It was a power struggle over regional dominance, with the bucket serving as the world’s most ridiculous casus belli. Think of it as medieval TikTok drama, but with swords and more casualties. The two cities had previously fought over stolen bells, damaged crops, and even a cheese tax, proving pettiness is timeless.
The aftermath? Modena celebrated with a victory parade featuring the bucket hoisted like a trophy. Bologna licked its wounds and, centuries later, commissioned a replica bucket to save face. Meanwhile, the original oak relic became a tourist attraction, drawing visitors who marvel that adults once killed each other over a household item you’d find at IKEA.
So, the next time you argue over who took the last slice of pizza, remember the War of the Bucket. It’s a reminder that human pride can turn anything—even a splintered wooden pail—into a hill worth dying on. And if you ever visit Modena, don’t miss the bucket. It’s proof that history isn’t just written by the victors—it’s also shaped by people who really, really wanted to win a prank war.
