Ludi Fortunae

A journey into ancient Praeneste

The Ludi Fortunae is a historical re-enactment that brings Palestrina, in the Metropolitan City of Rome Capital (Lazio), back to the era when it was called Praeneste and stood as one of the most influential spiritual centers in the Mediterranean basin. Launched in 2025 and already in its second edition in 2026, the event is promoted by the Municipality of Palestrina together with the Institute of Museums and Archaeological Parks of Praeneste and Gabii, with an approach that combines scientific outreach with popular spectacle.

The cult of Fortuna Primigenia

In ancient times, during April, rites were celebrated in Praeneste in honor of the goddess Fortuna Primigenia, whose monumental sanctuary dominated the slopes of Monte Ginestro. The fame of the site was primarily linked to the sortes Praenestinae: wooden oracular tablets drawn by a child inspired by the goddess. This divinatory rite attracted pilgrims from across the Italian peninsula and beyond, cementing the sanctuary's reputation as a premier prophetic center. The Ludi Fortunae revives this memory, restoring it to the contemporary city.

What to see

The program unfolds between the Forum of Praeneste and Piazza Regina Margherita, with incursions into the squares and alleys of the historic center. The days are marked by military demonstrations from legionaries, themed trails, and guided tours led by archaeologists and museum staff.

• Military demonstrations: maneuvers, weapons, and armor of Roman legionaries.
• Theatrical tours: narrated routes for adults and children, featuring actors in costume.
• Experimental archaeology workshops: activities designed for children aged 6 to 11.
• Educational stalls: daily life, ancient cosmetics, medicine, mosaics, oil lamps, and coin minting.
• Ancient cuisine: workshops and guided tastings of Roman recipes.
• Lectures: informative meetings on the cult of Fortuna and the female cults of Latium Vetus.

A growing format

The first edition in 2025 took place over a single day between Piazza della Liberazione and Parco Barberini, featuring gladiator shows and show-cooking by an archaeo-chef. The public's success convinced the organizers to double the duration: in 2026, the event spans two full days and moves to the city's archaeological heart, adjacent to the National Archaeological Museum of Palestrina, which houses the famous Nile mosaic.

Palestrina and the Prenestini Mountains

Located just over thirty kilometers from Rome, Palestrina is one of the most interesting destinations in Lazio for archaeology lovers. The Sanctuary of Fortuna Primigenia, with its ramps and terraces, is one of the most imposing Hellenistic complexes in Italy; the city is also the birthplace of the composer Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina. The Ludi Fortunae offers the ideal opportunity to discover this heritage in a lively and accessible way, combining a visit to the museum and the sanctuary with a day of celebration.

An event for everyone

The format is designed for families, school groups, Roman history enthusiasts, and the simply curious. Activities are free, but several (guided tours, children's workshops, tastings) require booking as spots are limited. The atmosphere is that of a well-executed re-enactment: rigorous in detail yet capable of entertaining those without specialized knowledge.