During the eventful Umbrian summer, it is even possible to dive back into the Middle Ages. In the streets of Bevagna, one of the Borghi più belli d’Italia (trans. note: classification of the loveliest villages of Italy), you can once again experience the atmosphere of the old mediaeval villages through the costumes, crafts, food and sports of the period. Between 16-26 June, pull the plug on today’s technological existence and immerse yourself in the bygone days of the Middle Ages re-enacted in the streets and lanes of Bevagna. The purpose of the event is to reconstruct the everyday life of the inhabitants of Bevagna between 1250 and 1350. Should you find yourself strolling along the streets of the town at the end of June, you will be able to admire the precious clothing of the era worn by the ‘bevanati’ (residents of Bevagna), watch the production of hemp, the creation of pots, the minting of coins, wax working and so many other crafts reproduced as faithfully as possible. The site www.ilmercatodellegaite.it outlines the entire programme and shows typical photos, but no description can give you a complete understanding of Le Gaite; for that, you will need to walk through the streets of Bevagna. Then you’ll be able to truly say you dived back into the Middle Ages.

*Le Gaite are the four districts of Bevagna: San Giorgio, San Giovanni, San Pietro and Santa Maria.