The Charm of the Middle Ages in Spoltore
Historical re-enactment in the historic center of Spoltore
About The Charm of the Middle Ages
The Charm of the Middle Ages in Spoltore
The Charm of the Middle Ages in Spoltore is a historical re-enactment that every summer transports the historic center of the town of Spoltore, in the province of Pescara, back to the atmosphere of the late Middle Ages. Founded in 2017 and organized by the Associazione Gianni Silvidii ODV with the support of the Municipality, the event has become one of the most anticipated appointments of the Abruzzo summer, capable of transforming the village's alleys, squares, and open spaces into an armed encampment and a grand popular festival for all ages.
A dive into the 13th century
Along Via Dietro le Mura, Piazza Q. Di Marzio, Piazza D'Albenzio, and Largo San Giovanni, scenes of 13th, 14th, and 15th-century military life come to life: craft stalls, period tools, racks with ancient weapons, and costumed performers reconstruct a true medieval camp. The public wanders through the village amidst historical processions, drummers, dancers, jesters, storytellers, and artisan workshops, immersed in a journey that combines history, legend, games, dances, and themed gastronomy.
The 1269 siege
The highlight is the re-enactment of the 1269 invasion of Spoltore: the mercenaries of Rudolph of Saxony assault the village, while the men-at-arms rush to defend the castle. The scene, set in Largo San Giovanni, is preceded by demonstrations of single-handed, two-handed, and shield sword fighting, and closed by final shows alternating fire rituals and warrior monks over the two evenings.
Shows and artists
- Falconers with birds of prey and eagle flights
- Flag-wavers and drummers in procession
- Ancient music concerts and costumed dances
- Fire manipulation arts, juggling, and storytelling
- Roaming stilt-walkers and children's games
- Medieval artisan markets and workshops
Spoltore and Abruzzo
An ancient hilltop village just a few kilometers from Pescara, Spoltore preserves a historical layout that serves as a natural backdrop for the event. The Charm of the Middle Ages enhances the identity of the town and the popular traditions of Abruzzo, offering residents and visitors two days of culture, entertainment, and conviviality in the heart of the province of Pescara.
The Charm of the Middle Ages — edition 2026
The 2026 edition (8th edition) of The Charm of the Middle Ages in Spoltore was held on July 4 and 5, 2026. Among the year's novelties were roaming stilt-walkers, already guests on Rai television programs, and musical performances by Rota Temporis, for whom Spoltore represented the first Italian date of the season. Falconers, flag-wavers, sword and shield fighting, and fire manipulation arts were confirmed, with an ancient music concert on Sunday evening. For the occasion, a shuttle bus service was provided by Spoltore Servizi, with departures at 7:00 PM, 8:30 PM, and 9:30 PM, and return trips at 11:30 PM and 12:30 AM.
Programme The Charm of the Middle Ages 2026
Program (same times on both days)
- Opening of the historic center with medieval encampment, markets, and artisan workshops
- Costumed processions, flag-wavers, falconers, and roaming stilt-walkers
- Musical performances by Rota Temporis (ancient music)
- Single-handed, two-handed, and shield sword fighting
- Re-enactment of the 1269 siege at Largo San Giovanni
- 11:00 PM at Largo San Giovanni: final shows with fire manipulation arts; ancient music concert on Sunday evening
Highlights The Charm of the Middle Ages 2026
Prices The Charm of the Middle Ages 2026
Practical information — The Charm of the Middle Ages
How to get there
Spoltore can be reached by car via the A14 motorway (Pescara Ovest exit) and the A25; it is just a few kilometers from the center of Pescara. The reference railway station is Pescara Centrale, connected to the village by local bus lines.
Parking and shuttle
During the event, the historic center is pedestrianized. A shuttle bus service is active with departures from the parking areas indicated by the organization (Via Fellini/Villa Raspa area). It is recommended to follow the instructions published each year by the Associazione Gianni Silvidii.
Admission
Access to the event in the historic center is free. For information: Associazione Gianni Silvidii ODV, Villa Raspa di Spoltore (PE).
Festival-goer photos
No photos yet. Share yours!
Share your photos
5 photos max, 5 MB per photo (JPG, PNG, WebP)
Noticed an error or missing information?
Help us keep this listing up to date. Every proposal is verified by our team before publication.
Festival-goer reviews
No rating yet — be the first!
No comments yet. Be the first!
Were you there?
Share your experience with the community.
Where does it take place — The Charm of the Middle Ages
Largo San Giovanni
Centro storico, 65010 Spoltore