Founded around the year 1000, Borgo San Giuliano was originally the city's fishing neighbourhood. The tradition of mural painting that has made Borgo San Giuliano famous has deep roots. In 1979, the municipal council suggested demolishing the neighbourhood to make way for a new residential development. In response, residents organized the first "Festa de' Borg" to celebrate, promote and defend their identity.
The municipal council invited several Rimini artists to paint iconic local figures on the walls of houses. During the second festival, the murals depicted scenes of daily life, crafts and local traditions. The tradition has continued, and today the murals tell the story of Borgo from the 1900s to the present day.
In 1994, the festival was dedicated to Federico Fellini, who died that same year. The director had included many colourful local characters in his films. The artists painted murals inspired by his works, which became a lasting tribute to the legendary filmmaker. The earliest murals were originally painted on the oldest houses, and some have been lost over time, while others can still be seen or found in old photographs.