Montecelio Medieval Fest

A village in Lazio rediscovering its medieval roots

Perched on the slopes of the Cornicolani Mountains, the village of Montecelio is one of the two historic hearts of the Municipality of Guidonia Montecelio, in the Province of Rome, Lazio. Steep alleys, ancient churches, and a panoramic view that reaches the Capital on clear days: a natural setting for a historical re-enactment. It is here that, since 2024, the Montecelio Medieval Fest has come to life, an event promoted by the local Pro Loco with the patronage of the municipal administration.

A 15th-century encampment

The heart of the event is the Parco dei Frati, where a faithfully reconstructed 15th-century military camp is set up. Visitors can wander among the tents, observe weapons, armor, and everyday objects up close, and engage with re-enactors who explain combat techniques, camp life, and the trades of the era. Past editions have featured the White Company, a re-enactment group already present at the main medieval festivals in Tuscany.

Falconers, fire, and early music

Among the most anticipated events are the falconry demonstrations, featuring free-flying birds of prey and their handlers, who recount the role of noble hunting in the Middle Ages. As evening falls, the mood shifts: Piazza San Giovanni becomes the stage for fire shows, while early music groups such as Clerici Vagantes and Ordo Melodico accompany the audience with dances, bagpipes, and percussion. Jugglers and street performers roam throughout the event area.

Activities for families and children

• Interactive archery area managed by the Banderentum association
• Painting workshops and educational activities for children
• Roaming entertainment and period games throughout the village
• Thematic historical lectures open to all

The lectures are one of the elements that distinguish the event from a simple costume party: in the 2025 edition, scholar Jacopo Matricciani gave a talk on The Middle Ages and the Arms Race, demonstrating a commitment to documented historical reconstruction.

Gastronomy and taverns

The social aspect is not forgotten: food stands and street food remain open throughout the evenings, offering options to enjoy while strolling between shows. It is a perfect opportunity for an outdoor dinner in one of the most evocative squares in the Tiburtina area.

Things to see in the village

Those who arrive early can take advantage of a visit to the Rodolfo Lanciani Archaeological Museum, which houses artifacts from the Cornicolani territory, and the chapel of San Michele Arcangelo, featuring Baroque decorations by Michelangelo Cianti. The village can be explored entirely on foot in just over an hour.

Why it's worth the trip

The Montecelio Medieval Fest is a still-young event, born in August 2024 and already capable of attracting thousands of visitors. The formula works because it goes beyond mere scenery: the camp is truly inhabited, the shows are spread across multiple points of the village, and admission is free. For those near Rome or Tivoli, it is a half-hour evening drive that is well worth the detour, especially on a summer night.