Lo Novello Market

A Dive into the 15th Century Marche

For a weekend, the historic center of Saltara, a hamlet of the Colli al Metauro Municipality in the province of Pesaro and Urbino, dresses up in period costume and transports visitors back to the heart of the 15th century. Lo Novello Market is a grand historical re-enactment that intertwines memory, craftsmanship, and entertainment, recreating the atmosphere of a village in the Metauro valley during the Malatesta era.

The 1449 Edict of Novello Malatesta

The event originates from a specific and identity-defining historical episode: the edict issued in 1449 by Novello Malatesta, which granted the community of Saltara the right to hold a weekly Wednesday market. That market, for almost six centuries, has continued to take place under the vaults of the historic covered market of Saltara, a structure considered unique in the Marche region and the true beating heart of the event.

Period Stalls, Crafts, and Merchants

Along the village streets, over thirty historical stalls are set up, animated by merchants and artisans in costume who showcase ancient crafts: leatherworking, goldsmithing, papermaking, ceramics, and much more. Alongside the stalls, there are historical encampments, scenes of medieval daily life, and live demonstrations, all presented with great historical accuracy.

Re-enactment Groups

Seven historical re-enactment groups from various cities participate in the event: the Brigata Montebodio of Ostra, the Corpo di guardia e arcieri of Gradara, the Compagnia del Grifoncello of Perugia, the Compagnia degli Olifanti of San Giovanni in Marignano and Macerata, as well as the Sala d'Arme Achille Marozzo of Fano, which offers demonstrations of historical fencing and combat techniques.

Culture, Shows, and Village Identity

The program extends beyond the market: conferences and thematic meetings delve into the history of the Malatesta family, 15th-century medicine, and customs, while theatrical performances, choral concerts of sacred and secular music, and storytelling dedicated to medieval and Renaissance women complete the offering. The event is promoted by the Associazione AnimaFemina in collaboration with the Municipality of Colli al Metauro and the Pro Loco of Saltara, with the active involvement of local residents, businesses, and artisans.