From 31st August to 2nd September 2018 the biggest historical re-enactment of Italy takes place
Every year in Italy there are many local celebrations which re-enact historical events through staged costume performances. One of the most important is the one yearly held in Palmanova.. Here we will tell you about its history and in particular how this tradition began. We will also present some of the many side events taking place, and finally will explain what the visitors can expect to find and see on such an occasion.
Credits: Il Piccolo
What is all about?
From 31st August to 2nd September 2018, one of the largest and most important historical reconstructions taking place in our country is the historical re-enactment of “The battle of Palmanova” in the municipality of the same name. Around one thousand participants, organized in 42 historical groups, coming from 12 European countries, stage 17th century battles and duels, also presenting the games, arts and crafts of the time. Viewers can witness the vision of military maneuvers as they were carried out in that time. In addition, it is possible to admire the military camps and take part in the festivities throughout the city streets.
Credits: Il Piccolo
The history
During the event the battle that took place in these territories in 1615 is commemorated. At that time, all the citizens of Palmanova were called to defend the local Fortress, wisely founded by the Venetians to protect the borders of the Serenissima, especially from the expansionist aims of the Habsburgs and the Turks. These events are part of the war called the Uscocchi in which the Austrian and the Venetian armies faced each other. This was a local conflict but also saw the participation of foreign mercenaries. At the beginning of September 1615 the Venetian troops left the Friulian fortress directed towards that of Gradisca.
The main events
In the 2018 edition of Palmanova’s historical re-enactment, most of the events will take place at the Cividale Gate. Inside you will find the militia camp. Historical markets will be held on the city streets and in Piazza Grande there will be various entertainments and historical games. Finally, guided tours to the battlements and walkways of the fortifications are also organized. It will be possible to visit the museum of the Great War and the fortress of Palmanova. Visitors will be able to taste the historical dishes at L’Hosteria which is located under the Loggia della Gran Guardia in Piazza Grande.
After having been classified as National Monument by Italian authorities, the Fortress Town of Palmanova has now been included in the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites, on account of its authenticity and state of conservation.
Information about the event and where it takes place
To access the militia camp and the battles on the 1st and 2nd September it will be necessary to buy a ticket directly at the entrance. This costs 5 euros and is free for children under the age of 14. The most important historical reconstruction of Italy and the second in Europe takes place on the streets of the city of Palmanova which is located in the province of Udine in Friuli. It was founded thanks to the Venetians in 1593. One of its peculiarities is represented by the plan of the inhabited center which has a polygonal star shape with nine points.
Throughout history there have been events that are still remembered today through costume reconstructions. In our country there are many local initiatives that bring to life the battles and fights of the past. If you want to find out more about this type of event we recommend reading this article too. Now that you know all about the historical re-enactment of Palmanova you just have to organize your visit to this important and fascinating town of the Friuli region.
Main image credits: Udine 20
