Festival Romano Santiponce

Introduction and local significance

The Santiponce Roman Festival is a historical reenactment event that allows you to immerse yourself in the classical past of this Sevillian municipality, which is closely linked to the Itálica Archaeological Ensemble. During this celebration, the Andalusian town revives its Roman roots through educational and recreational activities that bring spectators closer to the way of life from centuries ago. For the current edition, events take place from 13 to 18 October 2026, offering a unique opportunity to learn about this archaeological legacy through direct and participatory experience.

Historical origins and tradition

This festival was born with the aim of highlighting the area's historical heritage, using the ancient Roman city of Itálica and various points throughout the municipality as its main setting. The historical reenactment is based on rigour to showcase rites and social customs, with residents actively participating while dressed in period clothing. Among the traditional elements that come to life, the reconstructions of events such as the Inhumatio or Roman burial, and the Roman wedding or Nuptia, stand out. Likewise, the festival incorporates the roles of key figures in Roman society, such as vestal virgins, the Praetorian Guard, and domestic worship, transporting visitors to daily life in the 2nd century.

Programme and main events

The Santiponce Roman Festival programme is spread across various venues, combining practical workshops with theatrical performances and guided tours. The main events centre around the Itálica Archaeological Ensemble, the Monasterio de San Isidoro del Campo, and the Cotidiana Vitae space. Among the most prominent appointments are the night-time theatrical routes, tastings based on experimental archaeology, and the great Roman parade that travels through the municipality before ending at the amphitheatre. It is advisable to check the official programme on the website before attending, as activities such as guided tours and workshops require prior reservation and are subject to schedule changes.

Traditional festival food

The festival includes a specific activity linked to wine production in Rome. This proposal consists of a lecture accompanied by the tasting of three wines reconstructed through experimental archaeology processes. Through this event, attendees have the chance to get closer to the winemaking of antiquity in an educational setting.

Visitor guide and where to stay

The main venue for the festival is in Santiponce, with activities divided between the Itálica Archaeological Ensemble, the Monasterio de San Isidoro del Campo, and the Cotidiana Vitae thematic centre, located at Plaza de la Constitución, 11. For those travelling to the event, it is recommended to opt for public transport or look for parking outside the town centre, especially on days with higher visitor numbers.

To organise your visit, keep the following recommendations in mind:

• Book your accommodation in advance if you plan to attend for several days, preferably in the same municipality or in nearby towns to make it easier to follow the night-time events.
• If you wish to participate in the guided tours, workshops, or tastings, formalise your booking through the official channels before you arrive.
• If you have any questions during the festival, you can contact the organisers by calling +34 641 810 705 or by emailing italicadespierta@gmail.com.