Cultural events highlight historical routes and medieval heritage in Italy

The Walking Francigena Ultramarathon is preparing its 2026 edition, marking ten years of the non-competitive event. The ultramarathon focuses on the Tuscan-Lazio section of the Via Francigena, specifically the route from Siena to Acquapendente. Participants can choose from ten different distances ranging from 15 to 130 kilometers, including a “Grande Sfida” (Great Challenge) that covers the full 130-kilometer stretch.

In Narni, the sixth edition of the Festival delle Arti del Medioevo recently concluded. Held from September 3 to 6, the festival focused on the life and works of Giovanni Boccaccio. The program included historical reenactments, lectures, and educational activities exploring 14th-century themes such as literature, commerce, social distinctions through fashion, and the economic impacts of the plague. Mayor Lorenzo Lucarelli noted that the event uses historical reenactment as a tool to understand the present and foster local growth.