Historical Re-enactment of the Battle of Tolentino 1815
Three days in 1815 at the Castello della Rancia, with encampments, cavalry charges, and the first battle for Italian independence
About Battle of Tolentino 1815
A Leap Back Two Centuries
Few places in the Marche region can transport you to the 19th century like the Castello della Rancia in Tolentino, Macerata province, when for three days it transforms into the stage for the Historical Re-enactment of the Battle of Tolentino 1815. Around 300 re-enactors from across Europe set up their camps at the foot of the manor, don Napoleonic uniforms, and bring to life one of the most important military events in the Risorgimento history.
The Battle That Made History
In May 1815, Austrian troops led by Baron Federico Bianchi faced Joachim Murat's Franco-Neapolitan army here. Murat, King of Naples and Napoleon's brother-in-law, fought in this battle, which ended in defeat for the Neapolitan forces. Historians remember this clash as the first battle fought for the independence of Italy: an episode that the Tolentino territory proudly preserves and which the re-enactment faithfully recreates, from uniforms to infantry and cavalry tactics.
What to Experience Over the Three Days
The event is not just a reconstruction of battlefield clashes. A whole program revolves around the battle, featuring parades by historical groups, tributes to the fallen, guided tours of the battle sites, in-depth conferences, tastings of local dishes, and the famous soldier's ration. For families, there are activities and period games designed for children, allowing them to experience history firsthand.
- Historical encampments open for visits, with scenes of 19th-century military life
- Re-enactment of the various phases of the battle with infantry and cavalry
- Notte815, an evening of period dances in the castle courtyard
- Immersive show dedicated to the figure of Joachim Murat
- Tribute to the fallen and final parade of historical groups
The Castello della Rancia, a Perfect Setting
A 14th-century fortress nestled in the Marche countryside, the Castello della Rancia is the ideal backdrop for a journey through time. Its crenellated walls, walkways, and internal courtyards host encampments, markets, and shows, while the surrounding fields become the actual battlefield. This event attracts thousands of visitors each year, confirming Tolentino as a key centre for Napoleonic historical re-enactments in Italy.
Battle of Tolentino 1815 — edition 2026
The 25th edition of the Historical Re-enactment of the Battle of Tolentino 1815 marked the event's return to the Castello della Rancia after a four-year break. For three days, approximately 300 re-enactors from across Europe animated the encampments and fields around the manor, bringing the 1815 clash between Baron Federico Bianchi's Austrian troops and Joachim Murat's Franco-Neapolitan army back to life.
Among the most anticipated moments were the Notte815 with period dances by the Balletto storico del Battaglione Estense, the immersive show dedicated to Murat, the tribute to the fallen at the Ossuary, and the parades of historical groups. There were also workshops for children, guided tours of the battle sites, and tastings of local dishes.
Programme Battle of Tolentino 1815 2026
Friday, May 1st
- Setting up of historical encampments and soldier's ration
- Castle open and accessible
- Food area
Saturday, May 2nd
- 9:30 AM – Guided tour of the battle sites and the cellar
- 12:30 PM – Soldier's ration
- 2:30 PM – Preparation for battle and visit to the encampments
- 3:30 PM – Historical re-enactment, first day of clashes
- 5:00 PM – Return to encampments
- 6:00 PM – Conference "The Role of the 19th-Century Doctor"
- Evening – Notte815: period dances in the castle courtyard with the Balletto storico del Battaglione Estense and scenes of 19th-century life animated by soldiers, civilians, and extras
Sunday, May 3rd
- 9:15 AM – Tribute to the fallen at the Ossario Rotondo
- 10:15 AM – Immersive show about Joachim Murat (directed by Fabrizio Romagnoli)
- 11:00 AM – Parade of historical groups
- 12:30 PM – Soldier's ration
- 2:00 PM / 2:30 PM – Preparation and review of the armies
- 3:00 PM – Historical re-enactment, second day of clashes
- 4:30 PM – Final parade
Throughout the event: activities and period games for children with "History You Can Touch", guided tours, and tastings.
Highlights Battle of Tolentino 1815 2026
Prices Battle of Tolentino 1815 2026
Practical information — Battle of Tolentino 1815
Location
Castello della Rancia, Contrada Rancia, Tolentino (MC), in the Marche Region. The fields around the castle host the actual re-enactment.
How to Get Here
By car: Take the Tolentino exit on the SS77 Val di Chienti, then follow signs for Castello della Rancia. By train: Tolentino station, on the Civitanova Marche–Albacina line. Nearest airport: Ancona-Falconara.
Shuttle Service
During the event days, a free shuttle service is available (Saturdays and Sundays from 1:00 PM) departing from the camper area parking lot in the Sticchi area (municipal pool), with a stop at Piazza della Concordia (Giometti Cinema area) and arriving at Castello della Rancia.
Admission
Free admission event. For information: 0733 969778 – 335 1278072.
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Where does it take place — Battle of Tolentino 1815
Castello della Rancia
Castello della Rancia, Contrada Rancia, 62029 Tolentino