Monteriggioni di torri si corona: a “crowning” festival

It was Dante Alighieri who in the Divine Comedy wrote “Monteriggioni di torri si corona” (translated as “Of turrets, Monteriggioni crowns its walls), because its 10 meter-high fortified walls hold a solid 14 towers, which were useful during medieval times to catch sight of enemies – particularly Florentines – approaching from far away. This festival plunges the town right back into those medieval times with a colorful festival that’s among Tuscany’s oldest. Monteriggioni di torri si corona is a must-attend event for anyone who enjoys historic re-enactments, filled with street artists, costumed figures, engaging concerts and children’s entertainment, all in a dream-like atmosphere.

The main party begins with a banquet at the Castle, a medieval-style dinner that will feature dishes produced after philological research, all aimed at putting local traditions on display. The Castle is also the setting for numerous international concerts: one standout group is the German band Corvus Corax, specialized in medieval music with bagpipes and centuries-old instruments.

In the various stands at the festival, payment is made strictly using the grosso, the old currency of the Sienese Republic, which you can obtain at the festival entrance.

Particular attention will be given to audience involvement: any visitor can get a costume and participate even more actively just by contacting the organizers.