Veneralia in Calvisium

Veneralia in Calvisium: The myth of Venus lives again in the Gran Sasso

Veneralia in Calvisium is a Roman-era historical re-enactment held in the village of Carapelle Calvisio, the least populous municipality in Abruzzo, perched at an altitude of approximately 900 metres within the Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park, in the province of L'Aquila. The event blends theatrical performance and historical re-enactment, bringing the ancient cult of the goddess Venus back to life among the village's stone alleys.

A story born from an inscription

The show, written and directed by archaeologist and playwright Daniele Mancini, is inspired by an inscription found in the municipal territory that mentions five priestesses of the Temple of Venus of ancient Calvisium. This epigraphic fragment serves as the basis for a narrative freely inspired by Lucretius' Hymn to Venus, weaving together archaeological sources and theatrical imagination to recreate the atmosphere of an ancient votive rite.

Sacred rite, procession, and theatre

The protagonists officiate a sacred rite and walk in procession through the village streets, accompanied by music, dances, and hymns to the goddess. An augur conducts the sacred fire ritual, involving young novices in vows of devotion, while soldiers and magistrates complete the picture of Roman society. The performance is interpreted by the Arotron theatre company from Pianella and the Venus historical dance group from Sant'Omero, joined by young local students in the role of novices.

The Roman banquet

The evening culminates in a Roman banquet by reservation, served on triclinia and enriched by original recipes taken from Apicius' De Re Coquinaria. During dinner, the performers continue to dance among the tables, offering guests an immersive experience halfway between a banquet and a show. Seating is limited and advance booking is required.

Organization and territory

The event is organized by musA – Connessioni per la Cultura, with the patronage of the Abruzzo Region, the Municipality of Carapelle Calvisio, and the local Pro Loco. Included in the village's summer calendar, Veneralia in Calvisium represents an opportunity to discover one of the most authentic corners of the L'Aquila Apennines, amidst medieval architecture, mountain silence, and the memory of the Roman age. A visit to the small centre of Carapelle Calvisio, with its alleys and churches, perfectly completes the re-enactment experience.