Festival of the Barbarians 2026

From 29 July to 2 August 2026, the picturesque village of Castel Rigone, a hamlet of Passignano sul Trasimeno, will step back in time with the 42nd Festival of the Barbarians, one of Umbria’s most fascinating historical re-enactments. For five days, the ancient walls of the village are transformed into an authentic barbarian settlement, where history, entertainment and medieval traditions captivate visitors of all ages.

The narrow streets of the historic centre are filled with warriors, merchants, craftsmen and barbarian encampments, recreating the daily life of an ancient village. Amidst demonstrations of ancient crafts and scenes of historical life, the public can enjoy an immersive experience as they stroll amongst the shops and encampments set up for the occasion.

The highlight of the event is the spectacular duels with swords and axes, which begin in the village streets and culminate in the main square with thrilling hand-to-hand combat. It is the audience, through their enthusiasm, who will decide the winner of the challenges, making every performance even more gripping.

The programme is further enriched by traditional historical processions, medieval dinners, re-enactments of battles, fire shows and the captivating performances of the Musici Tonanti, who provide the evening’s entertainment with melodies and rhythms inspired by the Middle Ages.

The Festival of the Barbarians offers a unique opportunity to discover the charm of Castel Rigone, a picturesque village overlooking Lake Trasimeno, as you embark on a journey through history, folklore and entertainment in an atmosphere that captivates young and old alike.