Middle Ages in the Village – The Siege of Sancta Maria ad Montem

A day in the Middle Ages in Santa Maria a Monte

There is one day when Santa Maria a Monte, a charming village in the province of Pisa known for its distinctive snail-shell layout, sheds its modern skin and travels back seven centuries. Middle Ages in the Village – The Siege of Sancta Maria ad Montem transforms the entire historic center into an open-air stage, where history, culture, and tradition intertwine through combat, markets, games, and roving performances.

The 1327 siege: history brought to life

The re-enactment is rooted in a real and pivotal episode for this Valdarno village. On August 2, 1327, after a long siege, the Florentine army conquered the stronghold of Sancta Maria ad Montem, the primary military outpost of the Valdarno, ending the occupation by Castruccio Castracani, the Lord of Lucca who had dominated the village since 1317. It is this epic clash that the event brings back to life, offering visitors the atmosphere of a medieval world defined by conflict and daily life.

Between squares and alleys: what to experience

The beating heart of the day is Piazza della Vittoria, which hosts the medieval market, the street food area, and spectacular falconry displays. From there, the festivities spread throughout the village:

• Historical combat by the Compagnia dei Combattenti in Piazza Don Mannari;
• Archery displays and a pietra serena stone-carving workshop in Piazza Marconi;
• The traditional Panforte Game tournament;
• The Executioner's House and medieval torture exhibits in Piazza Santi Politi;
• Guided tours of the fortress underground and village walks in the company of Castruccio Castracani;
• Workshops on terracotta, calligraphy, ceramic painting, and traditional arts and crafts;
• Face painting, wooden games, and the Lady of the Giant Bubbles for the little ones;
• Roving performances with flag-wavers, inquisitors, and the Cantori Bucellanti.

A community event

The event is organized by Confcommercio Pisa, the Centro Commerciale Naturale of Santa Maria a Monte, and the Associazione Amici della Chiocciola, with the patronage and support of the Municipality of Santa Maria a Monte and the Chamber of Commerce of North-West Tuscany – Terre di Pisa. It is the result of a collaboration between local entities, designed to enhance the village's historical heritage and attract visitors to the heart of Tuscany. Access to public events is free.