Medievalis

Medievalis: Pontremoli returns to the Middle Ages

Medievalis is the grand medieval historical re-enactment of Pontremoli, a town in the Lunigiana region of the Province of Massa-Carrara, in the far north of Tuscany. For four days in late August, the village transforms into an open-air stage: cars are banned from the historic center, and the streets fill with costumed performers representing clergy, nobility, soldiers, courtiers, merchants, and peasants, amidst carriages, travelers, and knights.

The history: Pontremoli as a Free Commune

The event centers on the re-enactment of a specific historical event: the granting of the Free Commune diploma to the community of Pontremoli, which took place in 1226 by the hand of Emperor Frederick II. The emperor defined the village as clavis et ianua, or the "key and door" of medieval communications between Lombardy and Tuscany, highlighting the strategic role of Pontremoli along the Via Francigena. This episode forms the narrative foundation for the four-day event, which concludes with the proclamation of the Free Commune.

The three districts and the Disfida di Cacciaguerra

The village is ideally divided, as in ancient times, into three districts (contrade): Sommoborgo, Imoborgo, and the Contado. The rivalry between the districts brings the festival to life and reaches its peak on the final evening with the Disfida di Cacciaguerra, the gripping tournament that determines the winning district of the year.

Shows, market, and atmosphere

Throughout the days, historical processions featuring Emperor Frederick II, performances by flag-wavers, archers, jesters, and stilt-walkers, historical dances with the Compagnia del Piagnaro, fire shows, and falconry demonstrations with buzzards, hawks, eagles, and owls take place. The medieval artisan market, with over one hundred stalls, and numerous food stands accompany visitors through the squares and alleys, while the medieval encampment reconstructs the military and civilian life of the era. The scenic heart of the event is the Castello del Piagnaro, which overlooks the village from above.

A Lunigiana landmark

Organized by the La Compagnia del Piagnaro association, Medievalis is now one of the most anticipated events in Lunigiana and northern Tuscany, capable of involving hundreds of performers and dozens of historical groups. The 2026 edition marks the Twentieth Anniversary of the event.