Torre Alemanna Historical Re-enactment

A journey into the 13th century with the Teutonic Knights

The Torre Alemanna Historical Re-enactment is the annual event that brings the Middle Ages back to the heart of the Capitanata region. The setting is the monumental complex of Torre Alemanna, in Borgo Libertà, a rural hamlet of the municipality of Cerignola (Province of Foggia, Puglia): an imposing fortified site that served as one of the most important commende (commanderies) of the Teutonic Knights in Southern Italy. For two days, the tower and its grounds are filled with encampments, artisan workshops, and knights and ladies in period attire.

The history of Torre Alemanna

The complex's name refers to the religious-military order of the Teutonic Knights (the "Alemannic" or German knights), who founded the Commenda di Corneto here. It originated from a donation of land by Emperor Frederick II of Swabia, a central figure in the medieval history of Puglia. An agricultural and charitable settlement developed around the tower to welcome pilgrims, wayfarers, and the sick: this vocation is also linked to the figure of the Blessed Benvenuto da Gubbio, a Franciscan friar who cared for pilgrims and the suffering at Corneto, where he was eventually laid to rest.

What to expect during the re-enactment

The event showcases the daily life and ceremonial customs of the 13th century with a rich program of activities:

• Falconry displays with trained birds of prey;
• Duels, historical fencing, and archery;
• Live medieval music and dance;
• Market and College of Arts and Crafts, with demonstrations of ancient trades;
• Ancient games and workshops for children;
• Theatrical performances and costumed processions;
• Medieval gastronomy tastings, with menus inspired by 13th-century recipes.

The event features nearly one hundred re-enactors, actors, extras, and artists from numerous Italian cultural associations, coordinated by local re-enactment groups.

A local cultural project

The re-enactment is organized by the Frequenze Social Cooperative (which manages the Torre Alemanna complex), the Imperiales Friderici II historical-cultural association, and the Oltre Social Cooperative Consortium, with the patronage and support of the Municipality of Cerignola. The initiative is part of a broader heritage enhancement project funded by the European Union's Coesione Italia 21-27 program, which complements the re-enactment with scientific conferences, guided tours, and historical research into the role of the Teutonic Knights in Capitanata.