Saint Philip's Feast – Torri del Benaco in the Middle Ages

The Village Returns to the Middle Ages

The Saint Philip's Feast is the patronal festival of Torri del Benaco, a municipality in the province of Verona located on the Veronese shore of Lake Garda. On this occasion, the village transforms with the re-enactment "Torri del Benaco in the Middle Ages", set at the foot and within the evocative Scaliger Castle, the symbol of the town.

Between Drums, Duels, and Camps

For four days, the streets and squares of the historic centre are populated by costumed figures: drums beat, swords clash in duels, while itinerant theatre groups bring scenes of merchants, charlatans, and commoners to life. A medieval camp reconstructs daily life of the time, with artisans, guards, and evening fire shows that enchant the audience.

The Burning of Saint Philip's Boat

The most anticipated and iconic moment of the feast is the burning of Saint Philip's boat on the lake, which concludes the re-enactment on the last evening. It is a ritual of ancient origin, linked to a tradition dating back to the 17th century: the burning boat gliding on the waters of Garda creates an evocative spectacle, a gesture of deep tradition and devotion to the patron saint.

An Iconic Feast of the Veronese Garda

Organized by the Municipality of Torri del Benaco with local associations and historical groups, the Saint Philip's Feast combines historical re-enactment, entertainment, and popular devotion, offering visitors and tourists of Lake Garda an authentic dive into the Middle Ages of the Veronese village.