Carnival of the Ancient Ruins

The Carnival of Urbisaglia in the heart of the Marche

The Carnival of the Ancient Ruins is the young but very lively Carnival festival of Urbisaglia, an Orange Flag village nestled on the hill of San Biagio, in the Province of Macerata, in the heart of the Marche region. The name recalls the deepest identity of the town: Urbisaglia is located next to the ancient Roman city of Urbs Salvia, whose archaeological park, with its amphitheater, theater, and frescoed cryptoporticus, is among the most spectacular in the region. From this dialogue between past and present, a Carnival is born that aims to "honor the past" by celebrating in the very streets where history resurfaces at every corner.

Allegorical floats and masked groups

The heart of the event is the parade of allegorical floats and masked groups that crosses the historic center. Groups from Urbisaglia participate in the festival along with those from neighboring municipalities — Colmurano, Loro Piceno, and Ripe San Ginesio — in an authentic valley Carnival that unites several towns in the Macerata area. Original choreography, meticulously detailed costumes, and imaginative masks transform the village streets into an open-air stage, in an explosion of colors, music, and smiles.

Music, street food, and fun

Along the route and at the arrival square, there are plenty of street food stands and refreshment points, DJ music, and entertainment that accompany both young and old until the final award ceremony for the best groups. It is a festival designed for families and children, involving local schools and associations in a spirit of popular participation.

A village to discover

Visiting Urbisaglia during Carnival is also an opportunity to discover one of the most fascinating villages in the Marche: the medieval center dominated by the Rocca, the state archaeological museum, and the Archaeological Park of Urbs Salvia, which extends over about 40 hectares. An ideal destination for those seeking an authentic festival, far from the big tourist Carnivals, immersed in the tradition and landscape of the Macerata hills.