On the first weekend of September (every two years, in odd-numbered years), Palmanova takes a 200-year leap back in time to 1809, when the Fortress, under the rule of Napoleonic France, was besieged by Austrian forces. Over 300 reenactors from Italy and across Europe in historic uniforms and weaponry bring the Fortress to life for Italy’s largest Napoleonic reenactment and one of the most representative events of the era in Europe.
Two days featuring grand battles, parades, encampments, food stands, infantry, drummers and flag-wavers, hand-to-hand combat, troop processions, and artillery engagements. On Saturday and Sunday, two major open-field battles take place. On the plain outside Porta Cividale, visitors can relive—amid cannon and musket fire—the Siege of French Palmanova by the Austrians. On the same days, the Garzoni Bastion hosts a reconstructed encampment of militias and townsfolk, detailing military and civilian life and artisan crafts across more than 100 meticulously prepared tents.
On Piazza Grande, highlights include the arrival of Napoleon Bonaparte by carriage, grand military parades, processions of generals and troops, flag-wavers, and drummers.