Sponsalia of Acquaviva Picena

The medieval town of Acquaviva Picena hosts, during the first weekend of August, the Palio del Duca during which Sponsalia, the historical re-enactment of the marriage between Forastéria (daughter of Rinaldo degli Acquaviva) and Rainaldo (son of the Brunforte family), celebrated in 1234, takes place. The Palio begins with a historical procession, with the blessing of the drape (trophy of the winning district of the Palio) and the celebration of the engagement of the two boys. The main event is the one celebrated on the last day inside the majestic Rocca di Acquaviva (12th century), the sumptuous wedding banquet during which typical medieval recipes are enjoyed. The atmosphere becomes particularly exciting as the fortress is lit only by torches, and between courses (served by some 1,200 waiters in period dress) the banquet will be enlivened by performances by musicians, dancers and jesters. The event concludes with a re-enactment of the burning of the Fortress, recreated through a stunning fireworks display.