Mutina Boica

A Journey into Ancient Times in the Heart of Modena

Mutina Boica is one of the largest historical reenactments dedicated to ancient times in Italy. Born from the work of the reenactment association Aes Cranna and organized by Crono Eventi, the event takes place every year in September in the large Parco Enzo Ferrari in Modena, Emilia-Romagna, and attracts hundreds of reenactors from all over the peninsula.

The name itself evokes the ancient roots of the city: Mutina was the Latin name for Modena, while the Boi were the Celtic population who inhabited these lands before the Roman conquest. The festival was created precisely to tell the story of the encounter and clash between these two worlds, meticulously reconstructing the weapons, clothing, crafts, and customs of the Celts, Romans, and Etruscans with great philological accuracy.

What to See at Mutina Boica

For four days, the park transforms into a large ancient village, animated by:

• Historical encampments of Roman legionaries, Celtic warriors, and Etruscans, with tents, fires, and daily life reconstructed in detail;
• Costumed combats and battles, the true spectacular heart of the event, with clashes between armies recreating episodes from ancient history;
• Gladiatorial games curated by specialized groups like Ars Dimicandi;
• Evening theatrical performances, concerts, and historical narrations;
• Educational workshops and activities for children and teenagers, from ancient writing to blacksmithing, from Roman games to trials as a young warrior;
• Artisan market with dozens of exhibitors and numerous food stalls.

Each edition is built around a narrative theme: in recent years, themes have ranged from the revolt of the Gallic Boi in 218 BC to the Second Punic War, up to the famous Battle of Zama.

An Event for the Whole Family

The strength of Mutina Boica lies in its ability to combine the rigor of historical reconstruction with entertainment: the event offers over a hundred activities spread over four days, with a particular focus on younger audiences and schools. Admission is free, except for any special initiatives indicated in the program.

Included in the "Modena City of Festivals" calendar and supported by local authorities, Mutina Boica is now a benchmark event for history enthusiasts, families, and the curious who want to discover how people lived, fought, and traded in ancient Italy, just a stone's throw from the historic center of Modena and the Via Emilia.