A trip to the fifth century: The setting of the festival
The strategy of recreating the past has taken shape in Centcelles, where a festival has turned the surroundings of this emblematic building on the outskirts of Constantine into an authentic military camp of ancient Rome. After a Saturday marked by rain, Sunday arrived with radiant sunshine, attracting a large number of visitors who approached the event with curiosity.
Immersive experiences: Gastronomy and everyday life
Attendees were able to enjoy typical dishes of the time, such as a stew made with traditional ingredients, while the recreationists prepared for a day full of activities. As the morning progressed, the camp filled up with people, with bonfires lighting up the atmosphere and reminding everyone of the lives of our ancestors. Only the sound of planes from Reus airport broke the illusion of this journey through time.
A collaborative project: The passion for details
Jordi Soler, president of the reconstruction group Septimani Seniores, has expressed his satisfaction at being able to carry out this festival, organized in collaboration with the National Archaeological Museum of Tarragona (MNAT). The event has brought together participants from various parts of Catalonia, who usually travel to countries such as Germany or France to participate in similar festivals. On this occasion, the recreation of a battle between the Roman army and barbarian tribes was the highlight of the day.
A battle in sight
Viewers, especially younger ones, have been fascinated by the depiction of combat scenes, which have even included simulated medical operations. Through the explanations that accompanied the performances, the attendees were able to better understand the historical context of the event, located at a turbulent time in the fifth century.
An Interdisciplinary Look at History
The participants of the festival are not only amateurs, but also experts in fields such as archeology and anthropology. This diversity brings a rich and complex dimension to the historical reconstruction, with each item of costume and weaponry meticulously crafted from archaeological finds and historical documents such as the Notitia Dignitatum.
Promising future for Centcelles
The festival has been a great success, with a large number of visitors taking the opportunity to explore the interior of the Centcelles building. The director of the MNAT, Mònica Borrell, has confirmed that there will be a second edition of the event, being optimistic about the news that could emerge from future research into this fascinating part of history.
The revitalization of this heritage space not only serves to remember the past, but also opens the door to new discoveries and a greater appreciation of the cultural wealth that surrounds us.
