Sponsalia - Medieval Historical Re-enactment and Wedding Banquet

Sponsalia, the Middle Ages brought back to life in Acquaviva Picena

Sponsalia is one of the most evocative historical re-enactments in the Marche region and takes place every year in early August in the village of Acquaviva Picena, in the heart of the province of Ascoli Piceno. The event, organized by the Associazione Palio del Duca APS, re-enacts a real event: the wedding celebrated in the Year of Our Lord 1234 between Forastéria, daughter of Rinaldo degli Acquaviva known as 'il Grosso', and Rainaldo dei Brunforte, Lord of Mogliano. For four days, the historic center transforms into an open-air 13th-century set, with hand-sewn costumes, scenery, music, and period scents.

A tradition dating back to 1988

Founded in 1988, Sponsalia has grown to become a benchmark in the Italian medieval re-enactment scene. The 2026 edition is the XXXIX and continues to renew itself without betraying its original spirit: historical pages are complemented by innovations such as street food areas near the performances and new collaborations with regional historical associations. The Municipality of Acquaviva Picena, with its famous Fortress, provides a natural backdrop for the entire event.

The Palio and the challenge between the Districts

The competitive heart of the festival is the Palio, which pits the two districts of the village, Aquila and Civetta, against each other. After the historical procession and the blessing of the banner – the trophy destined for the winning district – the participants compete in the Historical Games of Sponsalia, in a crescendo of drums, flag-wavers, and tests of skill that animate the Piazza del Forte.

Unmissable moments

• The historical procession and the betrothal: the first evening stages the meeting and promise between the two young spouses.
• The medieval market and the military encampment: artisans, ancient crafts, and camp life at the Giardini De André.
• The Ludi di Sponsalia: an afternoon dedicated to theatre, street artists, falconry, and activities for children.
• The Medieval Wedding Banquet: the conclusion in the Fortress, illuminated by torches, with dishes recreated from 13th-century recipes and the symbolic burning of the Fortress.

The Wedding Banquet in the Fortress

The event culminates on Sunday evening inside the medieval Fortress, where the sumptuous Wedding Banquet is held. Amidst braziers and torches, while jesters, minstrels, dancers, and musicians entertain between courses, guests enjoy a historical menu ranging from 'cacciannanza' (a type of game stew) to 'formaggio di fossa' (pit-aged cheese), from 'padellaccia di maiale' (pork skillet dish) to 'vino cotto' (cooked wine), and the traditional biscuits of Forastéria. An immersive experience that requires mandatory booking.

Why it's worth the trip

Sponsalia is not just a costume party: it is a living story of a territory that cherishes its medieval roots. Visiting it means discovering Acquaviva Picena, one of the most beautiful villages in the Piceno area, and immersing yourself in a meticulously reconstructed Middle Ages within the walls of one of the best-preserved fortresses in the Marche.