Frederick II and the Siege of Brescia
The grand medieval re-enactment of the 1238 siege at the Castle
About Siege of Brescia 1238
Brescia Returns to 1238
Every year, the Castle of Brescia becomes the stage for a grand historical re-enactment: Frederick II and the Siege of Brescia brings back to life the 1238 siege, when Emperor Frederick II attempted to conquer the city. The event, promoted by the Confraternita del Leone, celebrates the resistance of the Brescians, which earned the city the epithet "Lioness of Italy".
Over 250 Re-enactors
For three days, the fortress hosts over 250 re-enactors from all over Italy, who animate encampments, historical camps, and educational stalls. Visitors can discover daily medieval life, try ancient games at the play areas, watch demonstrations of medieval fencing and archery, and immerse themselves in a meticulously recreated Middle Ages.
Shows and Ceremonies
The most evocative moments are in the evening: the torchlight procession with the ancient ceremony of the medieval blessing of arms, the night parade of knights in arms within the castle, and spectacular fiery sword duels. The opening ceremony kicks off the event in a theatrical atmosphere that blends history and spectacle.
A Shared Heritage
Frederick II and the Siege of Brescia is a free admission event, designed to introduce the public—adults and children—to the medieval history of the Lombard city. Fencing lessons for children, period artisans, and exhibitions complete the program, making the re-enactment one of the most cherished cultural events of the Brescia spring.
Siege of Brescia 1238 — edition 2026
The 15th edition of the Frederick II and the Siege of Brescia re-enactment will animate the Castle of Brescia from May 31 to June 2, 2026. Promoted by the Confraternita del Leone, the three-day event features over 250 re-enactors from all over Italy, dedicated to reliving the deeds of the Brescians who resisted Emperor Frederick II's siege in 1238.
Encampments, historical camps, educational stalls, and play areas will guide the public in discovering the Middle Ages, with demonstrations of fencing, archery, and evening shows.
Programme Siege of Brescia 1238 2026
Activities over the three days
- 13 play stations to try traditional games
- 20 educational stalls and 10 historical camps
- Demonstrations of medieval fencing and archery
- Period artisans and fencing lessons for children
Spectacular moments
- Torchlight procession with the ancient ceremony of the medieval blessing of arms
- Opening ceremony with a night parade of knights in arms within the castle
- Spectacular knight duel with fiery swords
Opening hours
- Friday from 5:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 AM
Highlights Siege of Brescia 1238 2026
The night parade of knights in arms and the fiery sword duel, along with the 250 re-enactors from all over Italy.
Prices Siege of Brescia 1238 2026
Practical information — Siege of Brescia 1238
Where
Castle of Brescia, Via del Castello.
When
Three days spanning late May and early June. Friday from 5 PM, Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM. Evening and night events.
Admission
All activities are free and open to the public.
How to get there
The Castle of Brescia is reachable on foot from the historic center. Brescia is served by the high-speed Milan-Venice line, the A4 motorway, and the city's metro.
Festival-goer photos
No photos yet. Share yours!
Share your photos
5 photos max, 5 MB per photo (JPG, PNG, WebP)
Noticed an error or missing information?
Help us keep this listing up to date. Every proposal is verified by our team before publication.
Festival-goer reviews
No rating yet — be the first!
No comments yet. Be the first!
Were you there?
Share your experience with the community.
Where does it take place — Siege of Brescia 1238
Castello di Brescia
Via del Castello 9, 25121 Brescia