The Mercato delle Gaite: historical reenactment in the village of Bevagna

The historical reenactment of Bevagna

From June 17th to June 28th, 2026, the municipality of Bevagna, in the province of Perugia, transforms into the natural stage for the Mercato delle Gaite. The event represents one of the most rigorous historical reconstructions in the Umbrian region, focusing on the period between 1250 and 1350. The town, famous for its perfectly preserved Roman urban layout and the architectural value of its Romanesque churches, welcomes visitors and scholars into an atmosphere that accurately reconstructs daily life in the Middle Ages.

The challenge of the Gaite

The social fabric of Bevagna is historically divided into four Gaite: San Giorgio, San Giovanni, Santa Maria, and San Pietro. During the event, these district entities compete in a palio consisting of various disciplines, ranging from craftsmanship to medieval gastronomy, and archery skills. Each Gaita is required to document its activities through workshops where medieval production techniques—such as papermaking and the working of iron and textiles—are faithfully reproduced.

Program and highlights

The calendar of events is marked by notable appointments that involve the entire historic center. The event opens with the inaugural ceremony, a prelude to a series of initiatives culminating in the Medieval Night, an event dedicated to recreating period sounds and costumes through the Voices from the Middle Ages format. The closing of the palio is marked by the archery competition, a moment of peak competitive tension that determines the winning district of the prestigious award. Along the alleys and squares, the presence of musicians, jesters, and artisan workshops contributes to creating a context of total historical immersion.

Logistical information

The Mercato delle Gaite takes place entirely within the walls of the medieval village of Bevagna. Access to the medieval workshops is regulated by an entrance ticket, while most of the itinerant shows and performances in the squares are free to the public. It is recommended to check the official channels for updates on competition schedules and for reservations at the period-style taverns, where it is possible to taste dishes inspired by local medieval culinary traditions.