Living History at Ossana Castle

The Middle Ages come to life in Ossana

Living History at Ossana Castle is a series of historical re-enactments that bring San Michele Castle, located in the village of Ossana in Val di Sole (Autonomous Province of Trento, Trentino-Alto Adige), back to life throughout the year. Organized by the Ordine della Torre Cultural Association, the event reconstructs the daily and military life of the 13th century through the 'Masnada de Castrobarco', a group of artisans and soldiers serving the Castelbarco family.

One of Italy's most beautiful villages

Ossana is listed among the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy, and its San Michele Castle is its iconic symbol. First mentioned in documents in 1191 and likely of Lombard origin, the fortress overlooks the entrance to the Val di Sole and Val di Peio valleys. Its 25-meter-high keep is the best-preserved architectural element of the entire complex, which includes a drawbridge, guard tower, dungeons, and several halls. Acquired in 1992 by the Autonomous Province of Trento and restored, it is now open to visitors and serves as a natural stage for these re-enactments.

The event schedule

The Living History series takes place over several days throughout the year, each dedicated to a specific craft or aspect of medieval life:

• Between Fire and Splinters — demonstrations of iron forging and carpentry
• Between Tailors and Dyers — the art of period dyeing and tailoring
• Siege of the Castle — the major summer re-enactment of the assault on the walls
• Coquendo Symposium — medieval cooking and banquets

The Siege of the Castle

The most anticipated event is the Siege of San Michele Castle, three days during which the village transforms into a 13th-century citadel. Over 50 re-enactors from Italy and Germany bring military camps, training drills, combat, and multiple re-enactments of the wall assault to life. Participating historical groups include the Masnada de Castrobarco, Die Reisecen, the Confraternita del Dragone, the Compagnia dell'Antica Torre, Ratisbona 1250, the Milites Castellani, the Milites Morbelliani, and the Cives Regni Siciliae. The atmosphere is completed by local produce markets, food stalls serving traditional cuisine, educational workshops for children, and roving musicians.

Culture and territory

The event is promoted in collaboration with the Val di Sole Tourist Board and the Municipality of Ossana, and is designed for both history enthusiasts and families on holiday in Trentino. It is a unique opportunity to discover the valley's medieval roots in an exceptional alpine setting, nestled among the woods and peaks of the Stelvio National Park.