Historical Re-enactment «1403: Captains of Fortune and Diplomats at the Court of the Del Carretto»

The Middle Ages return to Monastero Bormida

The Historical Re-enactment «1403: Captains of Fortune and Diplomats at the Court of the Del Carretto» turns back the clock in the village of Monastero Bormida, in the province of Asti, in the heart of the Langa Astigiana, Piedmont. For an entire day, the Castle and the historic center transform into an open-air stage, where diplomats, captains of fortune, ladies, knights, and commoners revive the atmosphere of the year 1403, when the area was contested at the threshold of the Del Carretto court.

A castle with ancient origins

The event is set in one of the most fascinating places in the region: the Castle of Monastero Bormida, founded as a Benedictine abbey in the 11th century and transformed in the late 14th century into the fortified keep of the Del Carretto family, later becoming an elegant residence between the 17th and 18th centuries. The 27-meter-high Romanesque tower dominates the village, while the medieval stone bridge with four arches stretches over the Bormida river, serving as the stage for one of the day's most spectacular challenges.

The day's program

The event enlivens the village from morning until evening with a succession of spectacular moments:

• Medieval market featuring historical re-enactors and artistic crafts in Piazza Castello;
• Costume parade with the solemn entry of diplomats, knights, and dignitaries into the historic center;
• Theatrical tours of the castle and village, led by re-enactors in period costumes;
• Archery contest on the Bormida and stage fencing exhibition in the courtyard;
• Tug-of-war challenge on the ancient medieval bridge;
• Street theater, juggling, historical games, a medieval blacksmith at work, and archery and crossbow shooting trials.

Flavors and period atmosphere

The convivial dimension is not forgotten: a Medieval Tavern offers food and drinks throughout the day, while those desiring a complete experience can book a medieval lunch on the castle terrace, with menus inspired by tradition. It is also possible to climb the Knights' Tower, which houses weapons and historical artifacts.

Open Castles and the Langa Astigiana

The re-enactment symbolically opens the Open Castles season, the circuit that promotes Piedmont's historic residences. Organized by Custodes Viarum APS and Langamylove, the day is an opportunity to discover an authentic corner of the Langa Astigiana, a borderland rich in history, among hills, vineyards, and ancient, human-scale villages.