Medieval Festivals of Apecchio

Apecchio Returns to the Middle Ages

The Medieval Festivals of Apecchio are the most cherished historical re-enactment event in this small village in the upper Biscubio valley, in the mountainous hinterland of the Province of Pesaro and Urbino, in Marche. For one day, usually in September, the historic center of the Municipality of Apecchio dresses up in fabrics, coats of arms, and armor: ladies, knights, soldiers, flag-wavers, and townsfolk in costume bring back to life the atmosphere of the 15th century, when these lands were contested and ruled by the great Montefeltro families.

Historical Roots: The Montefeltro and Ubaldini Families

The re-enactment is linked to the events of 1474, a crucial year for local history. It was in Apecchio, the family's land, that Federico da Montefeltro and his brother Ottaviano Ubaldini della Carda met Cardinal Giuliano della Rovere, the future Pope Julius II, in a decisive encounter that led Federico to the title of Duke of Urbino. That episode, which intertwines diplomacy, power, and marital alliances between the Montefeltro, Ubaldini, and della Rovere families, is the narrative heart of the festival and makes it much more than a simple costume fair.

The Historical Parade and the Palio del Drago

The highlight is the historical parade that winds through the village streets in the late afternoon, with costumed groups, drummers, and participants representing nobles, dignitaries, and commoners. This is followed by the Palio del Drago, the traditional challenge that animates the square and gives the event its competitive and spectacular character. The village squares – from Piazza XX Settembre to Piazza San Martino – become the natural stage for performances, games, and scenes of medieval life.

A Village to Discover

The festival is also an opportunity to visit Apecchio, a village of just under two thousand inhabitants situated about 500 meters above sea level, at the foot of Mount Nerone. Known as the "City of Beer" for its vibrant craft brewing tradition and for typical products like truffles, Apecchio offers visitors a compact historic center, Apennine views, and genuine mountain cuisine. The Medieval Festivals, passionately curated by ACURSA - Associazione Culturale Rievocazioni Storiche Apecchio (affiliated with CIANS), are the best way to immerse yourself in the identity of this corner of the Marche region.

Who is it for

• Fans of medieval history and costume re-enactments
• Families looking for a different day out in the heart of the Apennines
• Tourists who want to combine culture, villages, and Marche gastronomy
• Curious about the history of the Montefeltro family and the Duchy of Urbino