Templaria Festival

A Journey into the Knights Templar's Middle Ages

Templaria Festival is the grand medieval historical reenactment that every year, in mid-August, enlivens the historic center of Castignano, a hilltop village in the province of Ascoli Piceno, in the heart of the Piceno region of Marche. For five evenings, the streets, squares, and alleys of the village are transformed into an authentic medieval village, populated by artists, jesters, merchants, artisans, and knights, in an atmosphere suspended in time dedicated to the Late Middle Ages and the Order of the Knights Templar.

Origins: From 1990 to Today

The event originated on August 18, 1990, under the title 'Notti da Medioevo' (Medieval Nights), initiated by a group of local history and culture enthusiasts. It all began almost as a game, with modest medieval dinners set up in Piazza San Pietro, in the upper part of the ancient settlement. The name 'Templaria' was chosen following historical research confirming the passage and presence of the Order of the Temple in Castignano: the Knights Templar, en route to the Holy Land, left profound traces in the history, economy, and traditions of the area. From that small summer event, the festival has grown to become a highly anticipated occasion for thousands of people from all over Italy.

Open-Air Theaters, Shows, and Taverns

The heart of the reenactment consists of numerous open-air theaters spread across the village gates and squares, hosting a succession of theatrical performances, storytelling, duels, juggling acts, magic shows, live music, and falconry demonstrations. In addition to scheduled performances, groups of itinerant entertainers continuously animate the streets. Along the routes, you'll find artisan workshops, where ancient crafts come to life, and characteristic taverns offering dishes inspired by medieval cuisine.

The 2026 Edition

The 2026 edition, the 35th in Templaria's history, is confirmed from August 17 to 21, 2026. As per tradition, each evening will offer several hours of entertainment across the historic center's theaters, with over a hundred artists involved. The theme for the edition and the detailed program with individual events will be announced by the organization in the weeks leading up to the festival.

An Identity Event for the Marche Region

Promoted by the Pro Loco Castignano (local tourism association) with the patronage of the Municipality, Templaria Festival is one of the benchmark historical reenactments in the Marche region and throughout Central Italy. The setting of the medieval village, the meticulous historical accuracy of the setups, and the involvement of the entire community make it an immersive experience that combines culture, entertainment, and the identity of the Piceno territory.