The grand historical re-enactment in the ancient village of Conversano
Le Notti della Contea is the grand historical re-enactment event that brings the ancient village of Conversano to life every summer. Located in the Murgia dei Trulli area within the Metropolitan City of Bari, Puglia, the town transforms for three evenings into an open-air theater, reviving the glory of the County of Conversano and the powerful Acquaviva d'Aragona family, who dominated this corner of the Terra di Bari for centuries.
The heart of the event is the evocative setting of the Aragonese Castle and Piazza Castello, surrounded by military camps, ancient craft workshops, art exhibitions, and educational trails. Visitors wander through medieval alleys, encountering ladies and knights, merchants, artisans, and clergy, while jesters, jugglers, and theater troupes animate every corner of the village with roving performances.
The highlight of the festival is the grand Multi-Era Historical Pageant, which brings together hundreds of re-enactors from all over Italy for a spectacular procession through the city streets. Flag-wavers, musicians, costumed performers, and historical groups march to reconstruct different eras, from the Middle Ages to the Baroque, in one of the most popular parades in Puglia.
The event is organized by the SensAzioni del Sud Cultural Association together with the Gruppo Storico Città di Conversano, with the support of the Municipality of Conversano. Each edition revolves around a central theme that weaves together history, power, and the events of the county, offering the public an experience that combines entertainment, historical education, and the promotion of the ancient village's heritage.
From August 7 to 9, 2026, the ancient village of Conversano hosts the eleventh edition of Le Notti della Contea, dedicated to the theme «Woman and Power». The event celebrates the 410th anniversary of the appointment of Giangirolamo II Acquaviva d'Aragona as Count of Conversano.
For three evenings, Piazza Castello and the alleys of the old town come alive with military camps, ancient craft workshops, medieval games, jester and juggler shows, taverns, and a gastronomic area with craft beer, as well as conferences, exhibitions, and special monument openings. The grand finale features the Multi-Era Historical Pageant.
The detailed program with times, guests, and evening appointments will be published by the organizers on the official website in the weeks leading up to the event.
By car: Conversano is accessible via the SS16 Adriatica and the SP237; the old town is just minutes from the exit. By train: Conversano station on the Ferrovie del Sud Est line (connections from Bari). By plane: Bari-Palese airport is approximately 40 km away.
Access to the village streets is free; the evenings take place mainly at night, starting from 8:00 PM. Some activities, tastings, and medieval dining require payment. We recommend checking the official website for the detailed program and any ticket information.
Comfortable shoes are recommended for the cobblestone streets of the old town. Ample parking is available near the center; on event evenings, it is advisable to arrive early.
No photos yet. Share yours!
5 photos max, 5 MB per photo (JPG, PNG, WebP)
Help us keep this listing up to date. Every proposal is verified by our team before publication.
No rating yet — be the first!
No comments yet. Be the first!
Share your experience with the community.
Borgo Antico e Castello Aragonese
Piazza Castello, 70014 Conversano