Cutigliano Medievale

A dive into the Middle Ages in the Pistoia Apennines

Cutigliano Medievale is the grand historical re-enactment that transforms the village of Cutigliano—a district of the Abetone Cutigliano municipality in the province of Pistoia—into an authentic medieval settlement every summer. For a weekend in July, the paved streets, small squares, and picturesque corners of the historic center are filled with ladies and knights, merchants and artisans, soldiers and commoners, transporting visitors back to the atmosphere of the Tuscan mountains from centuries ago.

The History: The Captain of the Mountain

The event is deeply rooted in the past of Cutigliano, which in the 14th century served as the seat of the Capitano della Montagna, the official sent by Florence to govern the Pistoia Mountain territory. The palace that once housed his headquarters is now the village town hall. Established in 2001 by the local festival committee (now the Pro Loco), the re-enactment celebrates this historical identity and has become a landmark event for medieval enthusiasts in Tuscany.

What to see and experience

The program brings the village to life from morning until late at night with a succession of medieval scenes:

• The costumed historical pageant, the highlight of the festival, featuring over two hundred period costumes crafted with philological care by the Pro Loco seamstress;
• Traveler's taverns and inns, where you can enjoy dishes inspired by medieval cuisine and local mountain flavors;
• Artisan stalls and markets along the center's streets, showcasing ancient crafts, local products, and live demonstrations;
• Military encampments with armed re-enactors, soldiers, and reconstructions of camp life;
• Performances by the Cutigliano drummers, flag-throwers, musicians, and jesters, who accompany the festival with rhythmic beats and roving shows.

A unique atmosphere in the heart of the Tuscan mountains

Cutigliano is one of the most beautiful villages in the Pistoia Apennines, nestled in the woods just a few kilometers from the Abetone ski slopes. During the re-enactment, the architectural charm of the town—with its narrow alleys, coats of arms, and the loggia of the Palazzo dei Capitani—serves as a natural stage for the event. The festival is entirely managed by the Pro Loco Cutigliano with the patronage of the municipal administration, offering a perfect opportunity to discover the culture, history, and hospitality of this corner of Tuscany.