La Giostra

La Giostra: Castello del Matese returns to the Middle Ages

La Giostra is the most anticipated summer event in Castello del Matese, a small village in the province of Caserta perched on the slopes of the Matese massif in Campania. Every first weekend of August, the historic center transforms into a medieval arena: alleys and squares light up with torches, banners, and coats of arms, while the entire community dons 15th-century costumes to commemorate a pivotal episode in the town's memory.

The Siege of the Barons of 1460

The re-enactment traces the Siege of the Barons of 1460, when Castello served as the high fortress of Piedimonte, loyal to Ferdinand I of Aragon. It was here that the population sought refuge for their final, desperate resistance. From this historical core, the story comes to life every year within the village walls, offering visitors the atmosphere of an era filled with knights, ladies, men-at-arms, and artisans.

The three districts and the ring palio

At the heart of the festival is the challenge between the three districts into which the town is divided:

• Platano, the youngest, boasting the highest number of victories;
• Cavallo, the oldest, linked to the historical origins of the village;
• Torre, guardian of the historic center dominated by the Torre Grande, the symbol of Castello.

The contest is decided by the Sunday palio, the spectacular ring joust: three knights, one for each district, must spear progressively smaller rings while at a gallop, with points increasing based on difficulty. Victory grants the reigning district the honor of naming the Lord of the Castle for the following year.

Three days of medieval festivities

La Giostra is more than just a competition. For three days, the village offers a rich and widespread program: historical parades with costumed participants, flag-wavers, and musicians; district taverns and banquets where you can taste typical Castellana and Matesina cuisine; craft markets, exhibitions, period games, and evening shows in the squares. On Sunday, the historical pageant winds through the town leading to the decisive tournament, in a crescendo of drums, flags, and trumpets.

An identity-defining event for the Matese

Organized by the Cluvia Cultural Association, founded in 1995 from a group of young people's passion for local traditions, La Giostra has become the most important appointment for the cultural and tourist promotion of the Municipality of Castello del Matese. It is an opportunity to rediscover an authentic village in the Caserta hinterland, amidst nature, history, and a strong sense of belonging that unites the entire community.