Contesa del Pozzo della Polenta 2025

On the weekend of June 21 and 22, 2025, the ancient walls of Corinaldo will once again vibrate with history and colors thanks to the Contesa del Pozzo della Polenta, the oldest historical reenactment in the province of Ancona, now in its 44th edition. An unmissable event that every year attracts hundreds of visitors, curious to relive the atmosphere of the Renaissance and the epic episode of the siege of 1517, when the villagers bravely resisted the attack of Duke Francesco Maria della Rovere.

For three days, the streets of the center will be transformed into a large open-air theater, enlivened by musicians, flag-wavers, jugglers, dancers, figurants and artisans. At the heart of the event are the district games: tug-of-war, archers’ palio and bell game will see the four borough districts compete, each determined to win the title of winner of the edition.

There will be no shortage of historic taverns, where to enjoy typical dishes, including the ever-present polenta, also the protagonist of the legend that gave the event its name. Also suggestive are the craft markets, with demonstrations of ancient crafts, and the traveling animations that will accompany the public until the evening.

The most eagerly awaited moment is the grand historical procession, with more than 400 figures in sumptuous Renaissance costumes made by local tailors-a triumph of elegance and popular pride. Concluding the festival is the proclamation of the winning district and the thunderous firing of the Fico Cannon, a symbolic greeting that gives a date for the following year.

Organized by the Pozzo della Polenta Association, with the support of the Gruppo Storico Combusta Revixi and the Pro Loco Corinaldo, the Contesa is more than just a re-enactment: it is an identity ritual, an immersive and participatory spectacle that celebrates the history, creativity and soul of the borough.