La Notte di Isabella

In July, Cerreto Guidi travels back to 1576, the year in which Isabella de’ Medici arrived at the villa she loved so dearly. 
For two days, the village is transformed into a vast open-air stage, where costumed performers, ancient crafts and historical games bring the streets of the historic center to life, offering visitors a chance to step into the everyday life of the Renaissance world.

Within the village walls, nobles, commoners, knights, musicians and dancers fill the streets, while falconry, sword and crossbow displays, fire and flag-waving performances recreate the atmosphere of a bygone age. 
Local inns and taverns offer traditional dishes, served in an authentic and charming atmosphere.

Visitors can explore the village’s most iconic sites - from the Medici Villa to the Parish Church of San Leonardo and the Oratory of the Santissima Trinità - guided by historical figures who share stories, interesting facts and legends surrounding Isabella, the favorite daughter of Cosimo I.

The festivities continue with tales, folklore and speculation until word arrives of the noblewoman’s mysterious death in Cerreto Guidi. 
As rumors start to spread and the truth is whispered, the village fills with intrigue and mystery.

The closing performance takes place in the spectacular setting of the Medici Bridges, featuring a solemn reenactment celebrating Isabella’s life. 
The event combines history, tradition and entertainment, bringing the entire community together and offering visitors a truly captivating and immersive experience.