The 64th edition of the historic “Caccia al Cinghiale” historical reenactment in Mondavio will take place from August 12 to 15, bringing Renaissance pageantry, military bivouacs, and theatrical performances to the medieval walled town in the Marche region, according to local organizers and regional tourism officials.
Renaissance Roots and Historical Context in Mondavio
The multi-day festival commemorates the arrival of Giovanni della Rovere, nephew of Pope Sixtus IV, who became the Lord of Senigallia and the Vicariato of Mondavio in 1474. According to local historical records and event presentations, the reenactment recreates the lavish procession that journeyed from Urbino for the official taking of possession of the new Rovere territories, which coincided with the marriage of Giovanni della Rovere and Giovanna Feltria, daughter of Duke Federico da Montefeltro.
Agnese Trufelli, director of Confcommercio Marche Nord, noted during the official presentation that the event stands as one of the most significant historical manifestations in the entire Marche region. Trufelli emphasized that the festival consistently draws thousands of visitors while highlighting the architectural heritage of Mondavio, recognized as one of Italy’s most beautiful villages and a holder of the Orange Flag tourism designation.
Daily Program, Taverns, and Medieval Entertainment
Festivities begin daily at 6:00 PM local time across the historic center, featuring operational military encampments, traditional Renaissance arts, crafts markets, musicians, jugglers, acrobats, and falconers. At 7:00 PM, the historic center’s traditional taverns open their doors to offer regional food and wine specialties to visitors.
The scheduled entertainment lineup features performances by groups and artists such as Pier Paolo Pederzini Rimattore, Urana e il Teatro del Fantastico, the falconry troupe Urbeveteris Falconis, Giullari del Corvo, and Giullari di Spade.
Bivouacs, Banquets, and Evening Spectacles
Mayor Mirco Zenobi highlighted the dedication of the Pro Loco organization and nearly 200 local volunteers who power the event logistics each year. Pro Loco president Maurizio Galassi detailed the core schedule highlights, which blend established traditions with new immersive elements:
- August 12 and 13 (8:30 PM): The moat of the Rocca hosts the Bivacco, a recreation of the traditional camp dinner for commoners and soldiers.
- August 13 (8:30 PM): The Franciscan cloister hosts a formal Renaissance banquet where the Duke and Duchess receive invited guests.
- August 14 and 15 (6:15 PM): Traditional Sicilian puppet theater performances (Pupi Siciliani) are staged by the Teatroggi association company.
- August 14 and 15 (9:45 PM): The evening features the grand procession of the Duke and Duchess, followed by an immersive theatrical production titled “Orlando Innamorato” inside the Rocca Roveresca, concluding with a large pyrotechnic fireworks display.
Organizers note that reservations are strictly required for participation in the Renaissance banquet, the military bivouac dinner, and designated seating areas for the evening light and sound show. Detailed ticketing and schedule updates can be accessed through the official Mondavio Pro Loco website or by contacting the local information office at 0721 977758.
Next Steps and Event Schedule
The four-day festival runs through August 15, concluding with the final procession, theatrical performance, and fireworks display at the Rocca Roveresca. Visitors seeking real-time updates regarding minor schedule adjustments from performing artists can monitor the official social media channels maintained by the local organizers on Facebook and Instagram.
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