3638 Assedio Al Castello

On 6th of August 2005, Gradara was scene to a fantastic re-enactment of the 1446 battle when the Sforzas fought to regain power of Gradara castle from the Malatestas.
The entire event was enjoyed by over 40.000 people.
2 tons of explosives, 14.000 firworks, 80kms of cable, 46 remote control stations and the moving music from the Mozart and Verdi requiems along with other musical gems made this an evening to remember and one which we hope will be repeated this year.
We are awaiting the outcome of the local elections at the end of May inorder to plan this years event.
Sadly after the untimely death of our much loved mayor in February, we need to await the outcome before final plans can take place.
Will keep you all informed as it's well worth a visit.
DVD'S are now available of last years event and if anyone would like a copy drop me a PM.

Category
Do & See

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 05/15/2006 - 14:45

Well, since 2005 was only the 599th anniversary, surely 2006 will be even more spectacular!

Sorry to hear about your Mayor - but I know exactly what you mean. If an important personality (whether in public office, or just one of the volunteer Festa stalwarts) passes away - or has a tragedy within the family - there is a sort of communal respect shown which means no "spectacles" in the town/village for a couple of years, and then someone else takes up the reins. At least, that is what happens around my area, where tourism isn't a major industry, (there is no doubt more of a "show must go on" impegnative in places like Venice or Siena)!

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 05/15/2006 - 14:52

Hi Relaxed , it's not that we don't want to do a bigger and better show than 2005. However, we need to wait until the new mayor is elected because of sponsors etc etc. You know how things are in small communities. We all hope that the vice sindaco becomes sindaco and then we can also dedicate the 2006 performance to Gian Franco Micucci who started the whole project. It would be so fitting and so fingers crossed at the end of the month that voting goes the way we want it to.
It was a stunning performance.

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 05/15/2006 - 14:59

Yup - dedicate the festival to the late lamented - a very Italian work around :) :)