The knights' tournament is an exciting sight. Brave warriors dressed in armor, beautiful ladies who are watching the duel in excitement, and medieval music transport you to the Middle Ages. If you want to experience it - go to the city of Oria in summer.
Oria is a small fortified town in the Puglia region, located on the heel of the Italian peninsula. The very architecture and atmosphere of this place is conducive to organizing a major knightly tournament here every year. The historic festival, held in August, implements the decree of 1225 on processions and knightly tournaments, adopted by Federico II.
Traditionally, the event begins with a festive procession of festival participants in colorful medieval costumes, accompanied by music. This helps the guests of the festival to plunge into the atmosphere of the past, prepare for fierce battles and unbridled fun that will certainly follow further.
The most popular spectacle at the festival is, of course, the knightly tournament itself. Noble men converge on the battlefield and fight according to ancient rules. Points are awarded to warriors for successful strikes and dropping an opponent from his horse. The fastest, agile and most courageous fighter becomes the winner. Knights, dressed in medieval armor, enter the battlefield and fight each other, while their ladies of heart and spectators, gripped by excitement, watch the brutal duel. Of course, all the participants will remain alive, but this spectacle is no less exciting.
The historical festival consists not only of knightly duels. A medieval fair has set up its colorful tents, where guests can look at craftsmen selling household items of a bygone era and buy original souvenirs. Theatrical performances are held, similar to those held in medieval Italy. Throughout the festival, guests can listen to original music and refresh themselves with medieval dishes, which will be cooked over the fire in front of them.