Medieval Festival of Motta Sant'Anastasia
The grand historical re-enactment of the Norman village of Motta Sant'Anastasia
Edition 2026 not confirmed to date
This edition has not been confirmed by the organiser to date. We recommend checking before going.
About Motta Medieval Festival
The Medieval Festival of Motta Sant'Anastasia
The Medieval Festival is the most important historical re-enactment in the municipality of Motta Sant'Anastasia, a small village perched in the Province of Catania, Sicily, recognizable from afar by its imposing Norman tower built in 1074. For nearly thirty years, in the month of August, the entire historic center transforms into an open-air medieval setting, attracting thousands of visitors from across the Etna region.
A journey through time across the Rioni
The uniqueness of the event lies in its organization: the festival is entrusted to the town's three historic Rioni—Giovani Maestri, Vecchia Matrice, and Panzera—which, each within their own territory and with the patronage of the Municipality, set up shows, taverns, and period settings. The main squares, from Piazza Matrice to Piazza Castello and Piazza Dante, become the natural stage for costumed processions, dances, music played with ancient instruments, and theatrical performances.
Shows, crafts, and medieval flavors
Each evening opens with the opening proclamation and historical pageant, which evokes the court of Queen Blanche of Navarre, accompanied by her faithful lady-in-waiting, Jana da Motta. Along the village streets, you will encounter flag-wavers, jesters, fire-eaters, acrobats, minstrels, and dancers, while ancient crafts and the medieval market complete the immersion into the era. Among the most anticipated events is the Cena a Corte (Court Dinner), a re-enactment of a medieval banquet set at the foot of the Norman tower, featuring dishes prepared according to traditional recipes.
A tradition of the Etna territory
Reaching its twenty-eighth edition in 2025, the event represents a benchmark for the promotion of the history and popular traditions of Motta Sant'Anastasia and the entire Province of Catania. Admission to the shows is free, and the festival combines entertainment, culture, and gastronomy in one of the most evocative settings in Eastern Sicily.
Motta Medieval Festival — edition 2026
The official dates and program for the 2026 edition of the Medieval Festival of Motta Sant'Anastasia have not yet been announced. Based on previous editions, the event is expected to be held in August, featuring historical pageants, flag-wavers, jesters, fire-eaters, and the traditional Court Dinner at the foot of the Norman tower. To find out the final dates and program, please check the official channels of the Municipality of Motta Sant'Anastasia and the organizing Rioni.
Practical information — Motta Medieval Festival
Where
Historic center of Motta Sant'Anastasia (Province of Catania, Sicily), between Piazza Matrice, Piazza Castello, and Piazza Dante, at the foot of the Norman tower.
How to get there
Motta Sant'Anastasia is about 15 km from Catania. By car, it can be reached from the Catania ring road via a dedicated exit; Catania-Fontanarossa Airport is about 20 minutes away. During the festival evenings, the historic center is largely pedestrianized: it is recommended to park in areas outside the village.
Admission
Access to the shows and processions is free. The Cena a Corte and tastings in the district taverns require payment.
When
The event traditionally takes place in August over several evenings, generally from 8:30 PM until late at night.
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Where does it take place — Motta Medieval Festival
Centro storico di Motta Sant'Anastasia