Fragments of Antiquity in Bagnoli del Trigno

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Fragments of antiquity: a plunge into the past in Bagnoli del Trigno

A plunge into the past in one of Molise’s most characteristic towns: this is the re-enactment of“Fragments of Antiquity” in Bagnoli del Trigno, “The Pearl of Molise.”

In the enchanting setting embellished by the Sanfelice Castle and the church and bell tower of San Silvestro, Bagnoli del Trigno each year on Aug. 18 offers figurants in period costume, performances, typical gastronomy and a castle fire with one common thread, that of a typical historical re-enactment of the town. All of this is to accommodate a number of tourists and visitors, about 30000, compared with the usual population of just over 600.

Program

From the afternoon, along the main street, Via Roma, dozens of figures in magnificent period costumes parade along. Among them are the duke and duchess usually represented by a famous actor and that year’s Miss Molise. Along with them are flag-wavers, bands, musicians and figures of all kinds.

At the end of the parade, on a stage, theelection of mayors. Bagnoli, in fact, once divided between “Land Above” and “Land Below” had two different mayors who took turns during the year. The elected officials then look out from the balcony with the real mayor for a special scene with three different mayors for the same country.

It is sunset, and it is also time to eat while discovering the country. Along the streets are numerous stores and stands preparing typical dishes to be purchased with a very special currency. One must, in fact, make the change from today’s Euros to the Ducatis of the era for an even fuller immersion in the past. In the meantime, music and performances of various kinds enliven the wait for the last, biggest and most anticipated.

At midnight, after the arrival of the Fairy Trignina, a performance is staged of two engaged couples ready to get married who, with their respective families, agree on the dowry. But here comes the Duke to claim Ius Primae Noctis, the right to spend the wedding night with the bride. It is the last claim! The population revolts, goes up to the castle and setsfire to it. Thus begins a fireworks display of rare beauty ce ends an afternoon and evening immersed in the beauty of a quaint town and a history worth knowing and experiencing.