Canossa Historical Re-enactment
1077 - The Pardon: Matilda, Henry IV and Gregory VII come alive in the Bosco dell'Impero
About Canossa Re-enactment
The Canossa Historical Re-enactment
The Canossa Historical Re-enactment is the grand medieval festival that every year, at the beginning of September, enlivens the hamlet of Ciano d'Enza, in the Municipality of Canossa (Province of Reggio Emilia, Emilia-Romagna). Founded in 1992 and reaching its thirty-fourth edition in 2025, the event is organized by the Contrade Canossane (Canossane Districts) with the patronage of the Municipality of Canossa and takes place at the Arena del Bosco dell'Impero, which has returned to being the heart of the event after some editions hosted at Rossena Castle.
The Pardon of Canossa in 1077
The re-enactment, titled "1077 - The Pardon", retraces one of the symbolic episodes of European history. In January 1077, during the Investiture Controversy between the papacy and the empire, Emperor Henry IV appeared before the castle of Countess Matilda of Canossa to ask Pope Gregory VII to revoke the excommunication. Tradition has it that he waited three days as a penitent before obtaining forgiveness: hence the famous expression "andare a Canossa" (to go to Canossa). It is this encounter, mediated by Matilda, that the Districts bring back to life for the public every year.
An Evening of Medieval Village and Historical Parade
The day is structured as a crescendo that draws the spectator into the atmosphere of the Middle Ages:
- Medieval village with costumed figures and artisans at work, blacksmith, falconry, camp of the fencing masters, healer with magic and natural remedies;
- Entertainment with fire-eaters, knights and ladies, storytellers, jesters, and feats of strength;
- Historical parade in period costume that crosses the village to the Arena, with the participation of the Canossane Districts and the flag-wavers and musicians of the Maestà della Battaglia of Quattro Castella;
- Re-enactment of the Act of Pardon, with costumed figures impersonating Matilda, Henry IV, and Gregory VII;
- Taverns with typical dishes, street food, craft beer, and, to close, a Celtic music concert.
Why it's Worth the Trip
More than just a costume festival, the Canossa Historical Re-enactment is an opportunity to discover the Lands of Canossa, the landscape of cliffs, badlands, and Matilda's castles in the Reggio Apennines that served as the backdrop for a decisive episode in European history. Free admission, the philological accuracy of the costumes, and the setting in the Bosco dell'Impero make this event one of the most evocative historical re-enactments in Emilia-Romagna.
Canossa Re-enactment — edition 2026
The 35th edition of the Canossa Historical Re-enactment is announced for Saturday, September 5, 2026, at the Arena del Bosco dell'Impero, in Ciano d'Enza, a hamlet of the Municipality of Canossa (Reggio Emilia).
As per tradition, the event is expected to unfold in the afternoon and evening with the medieval village animated by artisans and costumed figures, the historical parade in costume through the village, and the re-enactment of the Act of Pardon between Henry IV, Pope Gregory VII, and Countess Matilda, concluding in the taverns with live music. The detailed schedule and the names of the performers will be communicated by the Contrade Canossane closer to the event.
Programme Canossa Re-enactment 2026
The detailed program for the 35th edition (September 5, 2026) will be announced by the Contrade Canossane in the weeks preceding the event.
Based on recent editions, the typical schedule includes:
- Afternoon — Opening of the medieval village at the Arena del Bosco dell'Impero: artisans, blacksmith, falconry, camp of the fencing masters, fire-eaters, storytellers, games, and taverns;
- Evening — Historical parade in costume from the Ciano d'Enza schools to the Arena, with the Canossane Districts and the flag-wavers of the Maestà della Battaglia of Quattro Castella;
- Following — Re-enactment of the Act of Pardon of 1077;
- Late evening — Taverns with typical dishes and craft beer, and a Celtic music concert.
The indicated times will be confirmed with the official 2026 poster.
Highlights Canossa Re-enactment 2026
- Re-enactment of the Act of Pardon of Canossa in 1077
- Historical costume parade with the Canossane Districts
- Medieval village with artisans, falconry, and fencing masters
- Immersive virtual tour "You are Matilde"
- Celtic music concert and taverns with local products
Prices Canossa Re-enactment 2026
Practical information — Canossa Re-enactment
How to Get There
The event takes place in Ciano d'Enza, a hamlet of the Municipality of Canossa, at the Arena del Bosco dell'Impero. By car from Reggio Emilia, follow the Val d'Enza towards Ciano d'Enza; the parade starts from the village schools towards the Arena. The nearest train station is Reggio Emilia, connected by bus lines to the Val d'Enza.
Admission and Seating
Admission to the event is generally free. It is possible to book front-row seats (usually via WhatsApp). The virtual tour "You are Matilde" and some activities may require booking: for information, contact the organization at +39 351 6503464.
Tips
The event takes place in the evening and outdoors: suitable clothing is recommended. In case of rain, the event may be cancelled or postponed; it is advisable to check for updates on the Facebook page of the Contrade Canossane.
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Where does it take place — Canossa Re-enactment
Arena del Bosco dell'Impero, Ciano d'Enza