On the occasion of the Carnival of the Este you can meet courtiers, ladies, princes, storytellers and armed soldiers in the streets of the old town, in the squares, in the Renaissance palaces and within the walls of the mighty Castle.
The wide variety of opportunities for entertainment and tasting of local gastronomy in the context of scenarios made up of prestigious architecture and monuments – sumptuously set up by the historical reenactors of the “Palio di Ferrara” – is organised by the “Contrade” (or districts), which host tourists and masks in their venues in dinners, banquets, aperitifs and shows inspired by the festivals held in the city during the carnivals of the 15th and 16th centuries.
As in previous editions, the playful and gastronomic initiatives are complemented by theatrical performances, pantomimes and dances by the historical dance groups of the Palio’s districts, as well as further shows and entertainment in the local squares.
This year the Este Carnival pays tribute to one of the most influential women of the Este family: Isabella d'Este Gonzaga.
