Medieval Pescia

Pescia returns to the Middle Ages

Every spring, the historic center of Pescia, a town in the Valdinievole area in the province of Pistoia, transforms into a grand medieval village. Medieval Pescia is the event through which the city's four districts bring the atmosphere, sounds, and flavors of the Middle Ages back to life for two days, animating alleys, squares, and characteristic corners of the center with performers in period costumes.

The four districts take center stage

The heart of the event lies in the four districts into which the city is historically divided: Ferraia, San Francesco, San Michele, and Santa Maria. Each district sets up and decorates its own quarter with the colors of its emblem, creating a challenge of hospitality, scenography, and welcome. It is the same rivalry that, a few months later, fuels the Palio dei Rioni, the race that awards the city title each year: Medieval Pescia serves as its spring appetizer and the first major moment of celebration for the Lega dei Rioni Città di Pescia, the association that organizes the event.

What to experience in the city

Strolling through the districts, you will encounter roving performances, musicians and minstrels, flag-wavers, sword fighting, jugglers, and street artists, in a continuous coming and going of ladies, knights, commoners, and nobles. Along the streets, taverns and inns open their doors to offer food and drinks prepared according to period recipes, while merchant stalls showcase ancient arts and crafts.

• Roving performances, live music, and historical re-enactments
• Flag-wavers, sword fighting, and street artists
• Taverns with medieval-inspired dishes and drinks
• Market stalls: clothing, medieval medicine and cosmetics, food, ancient coins
• Period arts and crafts brought to life by district performers

A popular and identity-defining festival

More than just a simple re-enactment, Medieval Pescia is a moment of collective identity for the city. It involves families, associations, and residents of the four districts, who work for months on the preparation of their quarters. For those visiting Tuscany away from the major tourist circuits, it is an authentic opportunity to discover Pescia, its history, and the vibrancy of the Valdinievole, nestled between the Pistoia hills and the famous flower nurseries that have made the city famous.