Discover the Historical Reenactment of Ponzano di Fermo, the magnificent event held in July in the old town of this marvellous hamlet of the Marche.
Are you dreaming of an extraordinary journey back in time to the Italian Renaissance, where you can experience the splendour of a epoch teeming with cultural achievements, pioneering thinkers, and talented artists whose creations have endured for centuries?
Treat yourself to an unforgettable adventure by taking part in the historical reenactment from the castle to the free municipality of Ponzano di Fermo. Since 1993, on the last Sunday of July, the heart of Ponzano di Fermo's historic center has been transformed, bringing the past to life with vibrant scenes, authentic sights, and the spirit of a pivotal era in Italian history. As you walk through the medieval streets and squares during the historical reenactment from the castle to the free municipality of Ponzano di Fermo, you’ll be swept into a world where 14th- and 15th-century life reemerges before your eyes, inviting you to enjoy the magical atmosphere of a glorious era that shaped our culture.
Discover the origins and legacy of the enchanting historical reenactment of Ponzano di Fermo
In 1569, the Castle of Ponzano sent the esteemed Ser Scipione Leonardi, a notable local figure with close ties to the influential Strozzi family of Florence, as an ambassador to Rome. His mission was to appeal to Pope Pius V on behalf of Ponzano's residents, who were facing unwarranted taxation and oppression by authoritarian Vicars under the jurisdiction of the city of Fermo. During his audience with the Pope, Ser Scipione presented a detailed account of these grievances, advocating for the community’s liberation from Fermo's control. Pope Pius V entrusted Bishop Carlo De Grassis of Montefiascone with the investigation, and after verifying the community's complaints, he appointed Fabrizio Bracciolini of Pistoia as the commissioner with magistrate powers.
On April 5th, 1570, the issuance of a Motu Proprio officially granted Ponzano its independence from Fermo, making it a Free Municipality under the direct protection of the Holy Seat. With this newfound autonomy, Ponzano was empowered to create its statute, elect a chief magistrate, who could also exercise the role of praetor with civil and criminal judicial authority, to impose the payment of taxes, and to re-establish the traditional St. Mark’s Fair. On June 5th, 1570, the newly formed Ponzano Parliament elected Marco Attilio Alberini da Monterone as chief magistrate. Today, this remarkable moment is celebrated with the annual historical reenactment of Ponzano di Fermo’s transition from Castle to Free Municipality.
Historical reenactment of Ponzano di Fermo: undertake a trip though history of the village
Join us for an exhilarating four-day event as our hamlet transforms into a spectacle of antique costumes, lively jousts, and celebrations! Actors in elegant Renaissance attire evoke thrilling knightly duels, while a lavish Medieval Dinner offers you a taste of authentic 16th-century cuisine, seasoned with aromatic spices.
The grand procession features the Municipal Magistrature, Captains of Arms, Nobles, Ladies, and Warriors, culminating in the poignant reenactment of Ponzano di Fermo’s liberation as the town’s first chief magistrate receives the keys of the Castle amidst a jubilant crowd of the districts of Saint George, Crocefisso, and Castello.
