I Cortili della storia (The Courtyards of History)

From September 19 to 20, 2026, the historic center of Sant'Egidio del Monte Albino transforms into an enchanting open-air theater for the long-awaited event 'I Cortili della storia'. Organized by the local Pro Loco, this festival takes this village in the Agro Nocerino-Sarnese area back in time, between the Late Middle Ages and the Renaissance. For the occasion, ancient courtyards and historic palaces exceptionally open their doors to the public, revealing the memories of yesteryear through the reenactment of customs, crafts, and scenes of daily life from the past. The food trail is one of the pillars of the event, offering visitors the opportunity to rediscover recipes and flavors deeply tied to local identity. Inside the historic courtyards, traditional local specialties are served, including handmade 'fusillo sangiliano', 'sciuanelle' pasta, 'pizza di granone' (cornbread) with cherry tomatoes, as well as meat dishes and desserts enriched with local citrus marmalades, showcasing the historical agricultural heritage of the area. The festive atmosphere is completed by a rich entertainment program bringing the village streets to life. Reenactors in period costumes, historical parades, falconers, musicians, singers, jesters, acrobats, and fire-eaters work alongside artisans busy with their traditional crafts. Of great historical interest is the solemn reenactment of the election of the 'Sindaco Particolare' (Special Mayor) of the ancient University of Sant'Egidio, a local administrative institution that remained active until the abolition of feudalism.