Templar Medieval Tournament of Sant'Egidio - Testona

A dive into the Middle Ages in Moncalieri

Every year, the Templar Medieval Tournament of Sant'Egidio transforms the village of Testona, a district of Moncalieri (Metropolitan City of Turin, Piedmont), into a vast encampment from another era. For an entire weekend, Parco Lancia comes alive with knights, men-at-arms, archers, and historical groups from all over Italy and abroad, bringing the atmosphere of the late 12th century back to life.

The connection to the Templars

This event is more than just a costume party: it commemorates the historical bond between the Order of the Temple and Moncalieri, dating back to 1196, the year linked to the origins of the ancient Montiscalerii. The most solemn moment is the re-enactment of the donation of the bridge, the Church of Sant'Egidio, and the Hospital to the Templars, honoring the role of the monk-knights in protecting pilgrims and controlling the ford across the Po river.

Tournaments and shows

The heart of the event is both athletic and spectacular. It hosts the Regional Traditional Archery Tournament, 13th-century style touch tournaments, and, most notably, the full-contact armored combat tournament, which counts toward the Italian HMB (Historical Medieval Battle) Championship. Alongside the competitions, the public can enjoy:

• equestrian shows and jousting;
• choreographed fencing performances;
• fire juggling and night shows;
• live Celtic and medieval music;
• an artisan market featuring period crafts and products.

A community celebration

Organized by the Historical Cultural Association Order of the Phoenix Templars of Sant'Egidio ODV with the support of the Municipality of Moncalieri, the tournament is deeply rooted in the local area: the 2025 edition drew approximately 5,000 people, including families, curious onlookers, and history enthusiasts. With dozens of historical groups, hundreds of costumed participants, encampments, tents, banners, and armor, Testona becomes one of the Piedmontese capitals of medieval re-enactment for two days. Admission is free, and lunch is open to the public.