Zù p'r e l'Borg'

A medieval re-enactment in the heart of Lunigiana

Zù p'r e l'Borg' — a local Lunigiana dialect expression meaning «down through the village» — is the historical re-enactment that every summer transports the village of San Nicolò, in Villafranca in Lunigiana (Province of Massa-Carrara, Tuscany), back to the era of the Malaspina dynasty. For two evenings, the narrow stone alleys of the village transform into an open-air stage, animated by jesters, swordsmen, musicians, and artisans reviving the crafts of yesteryear.

The village of San Nicolò and the Malaspina family

Villafranca in Lunigiana lies in the lower Magra river valley, along the ancient Via Francigena, the great pilgrimage route that connected Northern Europe to Rome. Its name derives from «villa franca» (free town), signifying its historical importance as a hub for trade and travel. For centuries, these lands were under the dominion of the Malaspina family, whose Spino Secco branch controlled Villafranca along with Mulazzo and Giovagallo. The event pays homage to this medieval past, reconstructing the atmospheres, costumes, and sounds of the feudal age.

Shows and entertainment

The re-enactment offers a rich program of roaming and fixed performances that bring the village to life from sunset until late at night:

• Historical dances in costume through the village squares
• Sword fighting and medieval fencing demonstrations
• Archery and trials for the public
• Fire magic and fire-eater performances
• Falconry with birds of prey in flight
• Juggling, musicians, and flag-wavers
• Sand art and storytelling
• A medieval-style play area for children and adults

Ancient crafts

Along the village streets, artisans set up workshops and demonstrate traditional trades, giving visitors a glimpse of a medieval community at work. Beyond the performances, the event is an opportunity to rediscover the manual and artisanal traditions of Lunigiana.

Taverns and Lunigiana gastronomy

The food and wine experience is a highlight: food stalls serve traditional local dishes, including the famous panigacci, pasta discs cooked between terracotta plates, which are a symbol of local cuisine. The village taverns enhance the visit with the authentic flavors of the region.

An event for the whole family

Organized by the Associazione Zù p'r San Nicolò APS, the festival is a free and accessible event designed to engage visitors of all ages. It is an ideal occasion to discover one of the most charming villages in Lunigiana, immersed in the atmosphere of an authentic and carefully curated medieval festival.