The Legend of Berta in Montegrotto: History and Reenactment

Pubblicato il 30 gennaio 2026 alle ore 23:54

If you love history, theater, and traditions, the "Festa di Berta" in Montegrotto Terme is a unique experience in Veneto. With historical parades, medieval villages, and theatrical performances, this event evokes the legend of Berta, a symbol of freedom and justice.

Historical Origins

The Legend of Berta dates back to 1084, when Empress Bertha of Savoy (wife of Henry IV, Holy Roman Emperor) visited Montegrotto Terme with her husband to benefit from the Euganean thermal springs.

Central Fact: A peasant woman named Berta gave the Queen a skein of yarn in exchange for the freedom of her husband Raniero, who had been unjustly imprisoned by the feudal lords of Montagnon.
Symbolism: Bertha was touched by the peasant's drama and granted the pardon. To thank the Empress, Berta decided to gift her a skein of her yarn. This gesture of generosity deeply moved Bertha, who decided to reward Berta and her husband by giving them a piece of land as large as the thread in the skein could enclose.
The Turning Point: News of Berta’s fortune spread quickly among the other women of the village, and each of them decided to bring a similar gift to the Empress, namely a skein of yarn. However, Bertha uttered a phrase that would remain in collective memory: “The time when Berta span is over.” This saying is still used today to allude to a past that will never return.
Local Context: The Legend of "Berta who spins" is an example of folk history passed down through the centuries. While based on mythological or historical figures like Dido or Bertrada of Laon, the anecdote regarding Berta is a popular creation that has taken on symbolic meaning in the local context of Montegrotto Terme.

The Historical Reenactment: "The Time of Berta" Main Events

Historical Parade:
- Participants: Six "Contrade" (representing the medieval districts) and the court of Henry IV, with period costumes and weapons.
- Route: From Viale Stazione to Parco Mostar, featuring flag-wavers and theatrical performances.
Shows and Activities:
- Narrative Dance: "Once upon a time, the legend of Berta" by the On Stage Lab company, which reenacts the story through choreography.
- Medieval Markets: Artisans, traditional games (e.g., archery), and villages showcasing ancient crafts (blacksmiths, weavers).
- Gastronomic Path: Tasting of typical products such as asparagus, cherries, and Euganean wines.
Contrade Games:
- Tradition: Competitions between districts (e.g., cooking contests, "Berta's cakes") to evoke the community spirit.

History of the Reenactment

First edition: 1961, created by a group of enthusiasts to enhance oral tradition.
Interruptions and Revival:
- Suspensions: From 2004 to 2017 due to a lack of political support.
- Rebirth: Since 2018, organized by the Associazione Berta, focusing on cultural heritage and school involvement.

Curiosities and Symbols

Berta's Thread: Represents freedom and justice, quoted in the final line of the show: "The time when Berta span is over."
Berta vs. Black Madonna: The legend of Berta is independent of the veneration of the Black Madonna, although both reflect local identity.

Why Visit?

A unique event in Veneto that combines history, theater, and tradition, ideal for families and medieval enthusiasts.

Practical Tips

Period: Second weekend of September.
Duration: 2 days, with evening and daytime events.
Bookings: Not mandatory, but recommended for specific activities (e.g., workshops).

Conclusion

After a day among medieval parades and historical villages, remember that Casa Luna, located near the center, is the ideal base to experience the magic of the Euganean Middle Ages.