Bibbiena Historical Carnival — Re-enactment of the Mea

One of Tuscany's oldest re-enactments

The Bibbiena Historical Carnival, held in the municipality of Bibbiena in the province of Arezzo, is one of the most deeply rooted costumed events in the Casentino valley and all of Tuscany. While its documented origins date back to 1514, the tradition is believed to have 14th-century roots. The modern re-enactment in 14th-century attire took shape in 1937 and has since transformed the village's historic center into a grand, open-air medieval theater every year.

The legend of the Mea

The heart of the festival is the Re-enactment of the Mea. The story tells of Bartolomea, known as "the Mea," a beautiful laundress betrothed to the weaver Cecco. While delivering laundry to the Tarlati castle, the young woman caught the eye of the Count's son, sparking a fierce rivalry between the town's two districts, the Piazza and the Fondaccio. To restore peace, the Mea was returned to her district and her fiancé, and the reconciliation was sealed with a great bonfire: thus was born the tradition of burning the "bello pomo."

The festival program

The event spans several days, including Saturday, Sunday, and Shrove Tuesday. The village comes alive with historical processions through the streets, square performances, flag-waver and musician displays, falconers, and costumed dancers and singers. There are also moments dedicated to younger audiences, with the medieval games of LudoMea, the "carraccino" challenges, and the medieval joust held in the charming Cloister of San Lorenzo.

• Historical procession in 14th-century attire through the town center
• Abduction of the Mea and her subsequent return to her district
• Medieval games and activities for families and children
• Conferences and meetings on the history of the Casentino region
• Burning of the "bello pomo", the juniper tree that concludes the festival

The "bello pomo" and omens

The climax of the event is the burning of the "bello pomo", a juniper tree lit in Piazzolina. Tradition holds that the flames provide omens for the year ahead, and attendees collect twigs as a sign of prosperity and abundance. It serves as the symbol of the restored unity between the two ancient districts of Bibbiena.

An experience to live in Casentino

More than just a masquerade carnival, the Bibbiena event is a true historical re-enactment that involves the entire community and immerses visitors in the atmosphere of a medieval village. Recognized as one of Tuscany's official historical re-enactments, it is an ideal opportunity to discover the Casentino valley, its folk traditions, and the charm of an event passed down through generations.