Festival of the Charlatan

The festival that rediscovers the charlatans of Cerreto

Few know that the small village of Cerreto di Spoleto, perched above the Valnerina in the province of Perugia, gave its name to a profession: that of the Cerreto charlatan. Between the Middle Ages and the modern era, the inhabitants of Cerreto travelled across Europe as travelling salespeople of ointments, remedies, and curiosities, healers and peddlers capable of gathering crowds in the squares with the sole power of their words. From that tradition is born today the Festival of the Charlatan, which transforms the historic centre into a large, widespread stage.

Performances in alleys and squares

For an entire late summer weekend, the village streets come alive with street theatre, contemporary circus, magic shows, comedy, and itinerant music. Professional companies arrive from all over Italy, and performances run from afternoon until night, with Piazza Pontano as the hub of the event. The festival is organised by the Municipality of Cerreto di Spoleto, often in collaboration with the Fontemaggiore theatre company and local associations.

History, museums, and territory

Alongside the performances, the festival offers a journey into the village's memory: guided tours of the Museum of the Charlatan and the Mummy Museum, conferences and meetings on the historical figure of the travelling healer, historical-naturalistic treks, and tastings of typical Valnerina products. It's the perfect opportunity to discover an authentic corner of Umbria, far from the most crowded circuits, where popular culture and the Apennine landscape merge.

When and where

The Festival of the Charlatan is usually held on a late summer weekend, between the end of August and the beginning of September, in the historic centre of Cerreto di Spoleto. Admission to street performances is free.