The Branciforti Counts of Raccuja

A five-century journey in a Nebrodi village

The "The Branciforti Counts of Raccuja" historical re-enactment is one of the most cherished events in the summer calendar of Raccuja, a small village perched in the heart of the Nebrodi mountains, in the Province of Messina. The event transforms the historic center into an open-air stage, taking visitors back about five hundred years to the era when the powerful Branciforti family governed the town.

The history: the arrival of Count Nicolò Branciforti

The central theme of the event is the re-enactment of the arrival of Count Nicolò Branciforti, his wife Giovanna Lanza, and their entire retinue at Castello Branciforti, a medieval fortress that dominates the upper part of the town. From 1552, the Branciforti family served as Counts of Raccuja and transformed the manor into a hub for political and administrative representation: the re-enactment celebrates that 16th-century splendor with period costumes, elaborate sets, and theatrical performances staged between the castle and the Mother Church.

Historical procession, flag-wavers, and performances

The heart of the day is the grand historical procession, which brings together nearly one hundred participants from across Sicily. Ladies, knights, men-at-arms, and commoners parade through the village streets, accompanied by guest groups that enrich the spectacle:

• "Dominus Fortitudo" Historical Group, the local organizing association
• "Federico IV d'Aragona" Historical Procession of San Piero Patti
• "Antiche Torri" Association of Santa Lucia del Mela
• "Civitas Nicosiae" Flag-wavers and Musicians of Nicosia
• Magma Company and San Marco d'Alunzio Archers Group

The procession is accompanied by jugglers, fakirs, and fire shows that enchant both adults and children, alongside an archery camp and entertainment that continues into the evening in Piazza Castello.

An event to discover Raccuja

Beyond the charm of the performance, the re-enactment is the ideal opportunity to discover Raccuja and its heritage: the Castello Branciforti, the alleys of the historic center, the traditions of the Nebrodi, and local products, from saffron to local culinary specialties. An identity-driven festival that binds community, history, and landscape in one of the most characteristic villages of inland Sicily.