Altamura, a city of the Murgia of Bari, particularly known for its famous bread, has been hosting a beautiful party in honor of its re-founder for a couple of years Frederick II of Swabia. The beautiful Apulian town is a thriving agricultural center where Frederick, emperor of Holy Roman Empire, he strongly wanted to build a Cathedral. In reality, Federico never managed to see completed the magnificent work he strongly desired because he died in 1250 before its completion. But why did Federico want to build a religious place when in other places he had built fortifications and castles, among which the most famous is Castel del Monte in Andria? Legend has it that the soldiers following Federico, sick with the plague, passed through Altamura and found relief thanks to its air and local water. It is thought that the Emperor, particularly grateful for the healings of his army, wanted to start building the Cathedral, dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta.
So, in honor of Frederick one is celebrated on 25, 26 and 27 April medieval festival the “Federicus”, a sort of historical re-enactment that overwhelms the city, recreating a real medieval setting with all the traditions and rites of the time.
In the three days they will be realized exhibitions and debates on the period of Frederick and on the great influence it had for Puglia in that historical period. Additionally, a Torture Museum where he will be able to "admire" the fierce tools used for coercive purposes. To this they add parades in historical clothes, medieval markets, camps and falconry shows, an art particularly loved by the Emperor. Also on the streets of the center there will be shows proposed by skilled people flag-wavers and archers who will teach those who want the art of archery. There will be jugglers, i eaters, the jesters, the dancers who will entertain tourists with the typical medieval dances. For the little ones then theaters and many exciting stories.
Finally, given the great passion of Frederick II of Swabia for fights and games of all kinds, during the three days of the event the Palio of San Marco. These are games of strength and cunning in which the most daring will compete until the winning team is decreed on the final evening of the event.
It will also be possible for those who want to entertain themselves for lunch, and in this regard I remember that the events will begin at 10.00 in the morning and end in the late evening, that some restaurants, farms and farmhouses will offer pleasant agreements with advantageous prices.
Don't forget to take a trip to visit the place where the famous is kept Man from Altamura, discovered only in 1993 in a cave near the city but which presumably dates back to a period between 50.000 and 65.000 years ago.
Photo: Davide Polato
