Medievalis: A Journey Back in Time in Pontremoli

4.5 (183)

Step back in time at Medievalis in Pontremoli, a vibrant historical reenactment celebrating the town's medieval heritage and Emperor Frederick II.

Home
Italy
Lunigiana
Medievalis

Medievalis is a historical reenactment held annually in August in Pontremoli, Tuscany, that celebrates the town's rich medieval heritage. The festival commemorates the granting of the Free Commune diploma by Emperor Frederick II in 1226, transforming the town into a living museum with markets, performances, and historical reenactments.

A brief summary to Medievalis

Piazza della Repubblica, 5, Pontremoli, Province of Massa and Carrara, 54027, IT
Click to display
Click to display

Local tips

Attend the Palio di Medievalis to witness the thrilling competition between Pontremoli's districts in medieval sports.
Explore the medieval markets for unique crafts, traditional food, and a taste of the past.
Take a guided tour of Castello del Piagnaro and the Stele Statues Museum to delve into Pontremoli's history.
Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on cobblestone streets throughout the festival.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Ponte della Crësa - Pontremoli

Ponte della Crësa: A Medieval Gateway in Pontremoli

Chiesa di San Geminiano

Chiesa di San Geminiano: A Timeless Sanctuary in Pontremoli

Palazzo Dosi Magnavacca

Palazzo Dosi Magnavacca: A Baroque Masterpiece in Pontremoli

Getting There

Walking

Medievalis takes place primarily in Pontremoli's historic center, especially around Piazza della Repubblica. From most points within the town center, reaching the festival grounds involves a short walk. Orient yourself towards the Campanone (bell tower), a prominent landmark in Piazza della Repubblica. The area is pedestrian-friendly during the festival, with cars banned from the historic center. No costs are associated with accessing the festival on foot.
Public Transport

If arriving by train at Pontremoli Station, the festival area is approximately a 15-20 minute walk. Follow the main road from the station towards the town center. Once you reach Piazza della Repubblica, you're at the heart of Medievalis. Local buses may operate, but walking is generally the most convenient option. A single bus fare costs around €1.50.
Taxi

Taxis are available in Pontremoli, particularly at the train station. A taxi ride from the train station to Piazza della Repubblica would be a short trip, costing approximately €8-€12. Ride-sharing services are not widely available in Pontremoli.

Discover more about Medievalis

Medievalis is more than just a festival; it's a vibrant journey back to the Middle Ages, held annually in Pontremoli, a charming town in the Lunigiana region of Tuscany. For four days, usually in the third week of August, Pontremoli transforms into a medieval setting, commemorating the pivotal moment in 1226 when Emperor Frederick II granted the town the status of a "Libero Comune" (Free Commune). This designation allowed Pontremoli to govern itself and flourish as a key crossroads for pilgrims, merchants, and armies traveling between Lombardy and Tuscany. The entire town participates in the reenactment, with locals and visitors alike donning medieval garb. The streets come alive with knights in armor, merchants peddling their wares, and townspeople dressed in period costumes. Cars are banned from the historic center, replaced by pedestrians, merchants, carriages, and knights, enhancing the immersive experience. One of the highlights of Medievalis is the reenactment of the granting of the Free Commune status, a grand ceremony where the town's mayor and citizens pay homage to Frederick II. Another key event is the Palio di Medievalis, a fierce competition among the town's historical districts: Sommoborgo, Immoborgo, and Contado. Participants compete in medieval sports, including archery, jousting, and foot races, with the winning district awarded the coveted Palio banner. Cultural and educational activities include guided tours of Pontremoli's historic sites, such as the Castello del Piagnaro and the Museum of the Stele Statues, offering insights into the town's history and the unique stele statues dating back to the 4th millennium BC. Workshops and demonstrations on medieval crafts like blacksmithing, weaving, and calligraphy are also held. In the evenings, the festival features medieval music, dances, and performances, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. Food stands offer traditional medieval dishes and drinks, allowing visitors to savor the flavors of the past. The "Disfida della Cortina di Cazzaguerra" is an exciting tournament where the village's three historical factions face each other in various games.