Siege of Canelli

Name: Siege of Canelli
Start: 2025-06-20
End: 2025-06-21
Location: Canelli

Two Days Reviving Medieval Courage, Wine, and Community Bonds

2026/06/19 - 2026/06/20

Every June, the town of Canelli in Piedmont turns back time for the “Siege of Canelli Festival.” For two days, the clatter of swords and laughter echo through cobbled streets, while the aroma of roasting meats and fresh-baked bread fills the air. Whether you’re a history lover, a foodie, or a family looking for adventure, this event offers a five-senses time trip through 17th-century battles, celebrations, and the local wine culture.

Held annually on the third weekend of June, both locals and visitors gather to relive the legendary 1613 siege. From children to elders, everyone can become a “citizen of the past” and join in the festivities.

Main Attractions

Historical Reenactment

The heart of the festival is a large-scale performance reenacting the 1613 siege. Hundreds of participants don costumes to play out the fierce battle between the town’s defenders and the Spanish army. The roar of cannons and muskets, the shouts of commanders, the scent of smoke, and the fluttering flags create a battlefield atmosphere so real it thrills both kids and adults alike.

Medieval Market and Artisan Workshops

A medieval market spreads throughout the town, where artisans in period dress demonstrate blacksmithing, pottery, and weaving. Bakeries and butcher stalls offer rustic breads, sausages, and cheeses. The smell of wood smoke and honey cakes, and the coarse feel of linen fabrics, let you experience the Middle Ages with all your senses.

Costumes and Decorations

Residents dress in 17th-century style—frilled shirts, doublets, bonnets, and skirts—while streets and the castle are decorated with flags and garlands. The texture of velvet and brocade, and torchlight flickering on stone walls, create a magical, immersive atmosphere.

Cultural and Historical Background

The Siege of Canelli Festival commemorates the town’s defense against a Spanish attack in 1613. Since its revival by local volunteers in 1992, it has become an important event to honor the courage and unity of ancestors. For the people of Canelli, it’s a chance to reaffirm resilience, teamwork, and local pride.

Today, thousands of visitors come each year, as the entire town becomes a stage where history, legend, and local spirit are brought to life through food and performance.

Participant Voices

I came from Milan with my children. We tried archery, tasted wild boar stew, watched the battle from the castle walls, and learned candle-making from an artisan. It’s a festival where even kids can feel history up close.

Fun Facts

Over 400 local residents participate as soldiers and townsfolk in the reenactment.
There are more than 30 food stalls and artisan workshops, where you can experience traditional methods and recipes.
The castle’s underground cellars, usually closed to the public, are specially opened during the festival.