WTI Magazine #83    2016 September 16
Author : folclore.it      Translation by:

This is a historical celebration of the glorious deeds of Frederick I of Swabia Redbeard AD 1,155. The '"Historia bella" tells us that Frederick I, called Barbarossa, passing through Medicina, became seriously ill and thanks to a broth in which a snake was inadvertently dropped, he recovered his health. It also tells how, in recognition to the inhabitants of the town, the emperor wanted to call the town Medicina, making it independent from the domain of Bologna, setting boundaries and recognizing privileges and exemptions.

History, legend and fantasy are the components of the extraordinary collective creativity that gives life to this great Feast: an evocation involving enthusiasm all over the area.

The lords of the castle are preparing to welcome the arrival of the Emperor and the keepers of the towers are making libations and dishes of their homeland.

Over the third weekend of September, the whole city dives into a medieval atmosphere, thanks to two thousand extras and artists that enliven the squares, streets and over twenty dining areas set up in the center.

Visitors can enjoy the specialties of the area and get lost in the "theme paths" among smells, tastes, arts and crafts ancient spells and colors, weapons, games and music. In every corner of the town musicians, jugglers, drums, witches and storytellers will delight guests.

Saturday evening the traditional Palio della Serpe will be held involving the five towers of the country, Goose, Pig, Horse, Grape and Farrier.

As per tradition, on Sunday evening the usual parade of people will march through the streets of downtown, celebrating and saluting the Emperor Barbarossa.