A Stroll Through the Middle Ages beneath the Civic Tower

A day in the Middle Ages in Montechiaro d'Asti

In the village of Montechiaro d'Asti, located in the province of Asti in the heart of the Piedmontese Monferrato, the event "A Stroll Through the Middle Ages beneath the Civic Tower" transports the town back to its medieval past. Organized by the Montechiaro d'Asti Palio Committee, the event transforms the square at the foot of the historic Civic Tower and the main streets of the center, closed to traffic, into a large period encampment animated by historical groups in costume.

Historical fencing, games, and traditions

The heart of the event is combat and historical fencing: specialized instructors alternate theoretical explanations with spectacular live combat demonstrations, showcasing weapons and techniques of the era. Alongside the weaponry, the medieval atmosphere is recreated by historical groups in period attire who set up camp and guide the public through the various areas.

Great emphasis is placed on young people and families, with educational workshops, medieval games, and guided tours of the Civic Tower that tell the story of the village in an engaging way. Among the offerings, a giant version of the famous Palio Game stands out—a life-sized reinterpretation of the historic Asti race, structured as a giant board game that actively involves local school students.

Market and period flavors

There is also a medieval-themed market with craft stalls and traditional products, as well as the opportunity to taste period foods at the refreshment area set up for the occasion. The event, created to highlight the historical identity of Montechiaro d'Asti, particularly involves the local middle schools and is ideally linked to the municipality's long tradition in the Palio di Asti.

The link to the Palio di Asti

Montechiaro d'Asti is one of the villages historically linked to the Palio di Asti, one of the oldest horse races in Italy. The local Palio Committee, which organizes the event, carries on the memory of the village's medieval origins—founded around 1200—through this re-enactment, offering residents and visitors a day of celebration that weaves together culture, education, and entertainment at the foot of the Civic Tower.