Monza Historical Re-enactment

Monza rediscovers its medieval soul

Every year, on a weekend in June, the historic centre of Monza (Province of Monza and Brianza) transforms into an open-air stage where medieval Modoetia comes back to life. The Monza Historical Re-enactment is organised by the Committee for the Monza Historical Re-enactment and involves hundreds of costumed re-enactors, who bring squares and streets to life with pageants, shows, and demonstrations of ancient crafts.

A different theme each edition

Each year, the event chooses an episode from the city's history as its theme: the 2026 edition, the 45th, is dedicated to the theme "A.D. 1407 — Estore Visconti is Lord of Modoetia", recalling the link between Monza and the powerful Visconti family. The medieval city thus revives not as a generic backdrop, but as a reconstruction tied to its own historical memory.

What to see in the square

The programme alternates moments of popular celebration and grand evening shows: the medieval market with artisan workshops, demonstrations of ancient trades, falconry, duels between warriors, flag-wavers, stilt walkers, and jugglers. The most anticipated moment is the historical pageant that crosses the centre to Piazza Duomo, where the final show takes place with pyrotechnic effects and the flight of the Teodolindea Dove, a symbol that links the re-enactment to the figure of the Lombard queen Teodolinda, deeply rooted in Monza tradition.

A festival for the whole city

The Monza Historical Re-enactment is much more than a show: it is a moment of community that brings together associations, historical groups, and citizens around Monza's identity heritage. Access to the evening shows in Piazza Duomo is free with reservation, while the market and daytime entertainment are freely accessible along the city streets.