Berta’s Time – Medieval Historical Reenactment

Among the many distinctive features that set Montegrotto Terme apart, one stands out for its uniqueness: a tale—straddling the line between history and fantasy—that bestows a noble and aristocratic legacy upon the town:“The Legend of Berta,” a gem that history has bequeathed to the community of Montegrotto Terme.
From Friday, September 11, through Sunday, September 13, 2026, the streets, parks, and squares of Montegrotto Terme will come alive for the grand festival“Il Tempo di Berta,”featuring the Palio delle Sei Contrade di Montegrotto Terme.

More than 400 participants take part as soldiers, princes, castle lords, and commoners—all of whom are non-professional actors who portray historical characters with great enthusiasm, emotion, and passion. And behind the scenes, there are many local residents who prepare and maintain the costumes, assign roles, and handle the organization.

7:00 p.m. Let the party begin!

OPENING OF THE “DE MONTAGNON” INN

Let yourself be captivated by the flavors of the inn: a dinner featuring dishes inspired by the Middle Ages alongside modern reinterpretations, a warm, welcoming atmosphere, and time-honored traditions—allowing you to experience history even at the table.

8:00 p.m. Arrival of Emperor Henry IV and his wife, Bertha of Savoy

8:30 p.m. “CENA DI FUOCO”
Grand Banquet at the Corte de Montagnon

Take a seat at the charming Banchetto de Montagnon and let yourself be transported on an authentic journey back to the 11th century. With dishes inspired by medieval traditions, music, and performances, you’ll enjoy a unique experience in the heart of the court.

Reserve a Dinner
9:30 p.m. IGNIS IMPERIALIS: THE FIRE SHOW

A spectacular fire show presented by Madame Scintilla and La Poetessa di Fuoco

10:00 a.m. THE MEDIEVAL VILLAGE COMES TO LIFE

In a lively medieval village, the sounds of artisan workshops fill the air, smoke rises from a skillfully reconstructed military camp, and traveling performances come to life, enchanting young and old alike with tales, stories, and hands-on workshops.

An immersive experience that transports visitors back in time, amid ancient crafts, flavors of days gone by, and stories that come to life before your eyes.

A blend of history and excitement… the Middle Ages await you!

12:00 p.m. OPENING OF THE “DE MONTAGNON” INN

Let yourself be captivated by the flavors of the inn: a lunch featuring dishes inspired by the Middle Ages alongside modern reinterpretations, a warm, welcoming atmosphere, and time-honored traditions—so you can experience history right at the table.

4:00 p.m. EQUESTRIAN WORKSHOP

Organized by ASD Officine Horses

A space dedicated to young children where they can explore their connection with horses through play and observation.

5:00 p.m. CHALLENGE BETWEEN THE KNIGHTS OF THE SIX CONTRADE

Edited by Le Lame Nere

In the heart of the medieval arena, the valiant knights of Montagnon’s six districts face off in a spectacular jousting tournament. Amid blows, maneuvers, and breathtaking duels, they will demonstrate courage, strength, and skill to win honor and glory.

An unmissable reenactment that brings the spirit of chivalric tradition to life!

6:00 p.m. PALIO OF THE SIX CONTRADE ON HORSEBACK

Organized by the Amici del Cavallo del Lungo Brenta group

The ancient rivalry between the six districts of Montagnon is revived: the knights, mounted on their steeds, will compete for the honor of winning the Palio in a test of skill, courage, and speed. They must seize the spindle from the hands of the commoner Berta and carry it, with skill and pride, as a gift to Queen Bertha.

7:00 p.m. REOPENING OF THE “DE MONTAGNON” INN

For dinner, the Locanda continues to offer a journey through traditional flavors.

7:30 p.m. THE NIGHT OF THE VILLAGE – NEW FOR THE 2026 EDITION

When the sun goes down, the village is transformed

From aperitif time until late in the evening, let yourself be swept away by a relaxed and captivating atmosphere: medieval cocktails, live music, roaming performers, and shows will take the audience on a journey through history and conviviality.

As the evening progresses, the festivities will build, transforming the heart of the medieval festival into an evening to be enjoyed together, filled with traditional flavors, music, and wonders.

Sunday, the 11th

10:00 a.m. THE MEDIEVAL VILLAGE COMES BACK TO LIFE

If you weren’t able to experience the magic of the village on Saturday… this is your chance!

Stroll through the ancient crafts, meet the artisans, visit the military camp, explore the educational booths, and try your hand at traditional games.

An immersive experience blending history, traditions, and flavors that will delight both adults and children.

10:00 a.m.

Piazza Roma

MUSIC AND DANCE IN HONOR OF HENRY IV

Presented by the Medieval Minstrels

10:30 a.m.

Carmignoto Square

FALCONRY FREE-FLIGHT DEMONSTRATION

Edited by I Falconieri del Re

10:30 a.m. GRAND MEDIEVAL HISTORICAL PARADE

A journey through the splendor, symbols, and traditions of the 11th century

An impressive costumed parade winds through the streets of the ancient district of Montagnon, evoking the former splendor of the Middle Ages. Over 400 participants—including ladies, nobles, soldiers, knights, commoners, musicians, and flag-wavers—bring to life a living tableau that tells the story and traditions of the six districts of ancient Montegrotto Terme. Amid banners fluttering in the wind, the sound of drums, and the blare of trumpets, the procession transports visitors into a timeless atmosphere, rich in colors, symbols, and rituals. A captivating experience that blends memory, identity, and collective participation, right at the heart of the medieval festival.

Starting point: Piazza Mercato

Route: Corso delle Terme, Via Roma, Piazza Roma, Viale Stazione, Piazza Carmignoto, Via San Mauro, Piazzale Stazione, Viale Stazione, Via Aureliana

Arrival: Mostar Park, where the parade will officially kick off the Borgo festivities

12:00 p.m. OPENING OF THE “DE MONTAGNON” INN

Let yourself be captivated by the flavors of the inn: a lunch featuring dishes inspired by the Middle Ages alongside modern reinterpretations, a warm, welcoming atmosphere, and time-honored traditions—so you can experience history right at the table.

5:00 p.m. PUPPET SHOW FOR ADULTS AND CHILDREN

“When Berta Spun. From History… to a Story,” curated by “I Fantaghirò”

6:00 p.m. FREE-FLIGHT FALCONRY DEMONSTRATION

Edited by I Falconieri del Re

7:00 p.m. REOPENING OF THE “DE MONTAGNON” INN

For dinner, the Locanda continues to offer a journey through traditional flavors.

9:00 p.m. THEATER PERFORMANCE OF THE LEGEND OF BERTA

Let yourself be swept away by the theatrical performance of *The Legend of Berta*: a thrilling show, enriched with original music and songs, that breathes new life into Montegrotto Terme’s most famous tale. An experience designed both for those discovering the legend for the first time and for those who already know it and wish to relive it through a fresh and evocative interpretation.

Directed by Vittorio Attene

Actors from the Rec.itando Theater and Film School

Dancers from the On Stage Lab ASD dance school