Matilica Municipium Romanum

A city rediscovering its Roman roots

In the heart of the Marche region, in the Province of Macerata, the Municipality of Matelica holds an ancient past: in Roman times, it was the Municipium of Matilica, a vibrant center in the Marche Apennines. From this heritage is born Matilica Municipium Romanum, the historical reenactment that for a few days in September transforms the historic city center into an authentic ancient Roman camp. The event is organized by Pro Matelica with the patronage of the Municipality of Matelica and is part of the rich calendar of events that enlivens the village in the second week of September, coinciding with the celebrations for the patron saint Sant'Adriano.

A journey into the Imperial era

The reenactment is set in the era of the Roman city's greatest splendor, between the emperors Trajan and Hadrian. Along the streets and squares of the historic center, historical costume parades come to life, the meeting between the Emperor and the city notables, ancient taverns with period foods, Roman games, educational stands dedicated to Roman civilization, and evening shows. Characters in period costumes, legionaries, gladiators, and reenactors accompany visitors on an immersive experience, blending history, entertainment, and conviviality.

The challenge between the insulae

The heart of the event is the competition between the four insulae (city blocks) into which the city is ideally divided, distinguished by the colors red, yellow, blue, and green. The insulae compete in Roman-themed games and challenges until the final proclamation of the winning insula, in a spirit of healthy rivalry that involves the entire community of Matelica.

Taverns, shows, and tradition

• Roman taverns open in the evening with flavors of ancient cuisine
• Historical parades in costume through the streets of the center
• Roman games and gladiator shows
• Guided tours to discover ancient Matilica
• Evening shows, music, and festive moments

A return awaited for over twenty years

Matelica's "Roman festivals" have a long history: after editions in the early 2000s, the event returned in 2025 after more than twenty years of absence, achieving great public success. Since then, Matilica Municipium Romanum has become one of the most anticipated events of the Matelica summer, successfully combining the valorization of local historical heritage with fun and participation for the entire city.