montieri-tempora-artisTempora Artis Magicae

First weekend in August

A historical re-enactment of the Middle Ages filled with magic, witches and centuries’ old mystery, this festival is always a highly anticipated event in Montieri.

Every year the town gathers to celebrate their rich history in a fun and very unique way. There are re-enactments, shows, songs and readings. The focus is always on the legends and magical heritage that defined the town during the Middle Ages and the Inquisition, when innocent woman were burnt for witchcraft.

As macabre as a festival centred around the Inquisition might sound, Tempora Artis Magicae doesn’t celebrate the burning of witches, but the medieval events that shaped Montieri and its traditions. The festival is run entirely by local artisans and historians, who take it upon themselves to organise guided tours in and around the beautiful countryside.

On these tours, you’re given more than just a history lesson. In fact, your extremely passionate and knowledgeable guide is likely to break out into songs from local folklore (just like mine did!) or begin a very convincing re-enactment of an event in the very stretch of countryside where it happened centuries ago.

And then there’s the food. Not medieval fare, but the very best local cuisine washed down with some incredible wine and usually an after dinner show or reading.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][templatera id=”10523″][/vc_column][/vc_row]