The calendar

Il tempo di Francesco. Homo homini lupus is the theme of the 12th edition of the Festival del Medioevo, taking place in Gubbio from 23 to 27 September. The 2026 edition marks an important change: the Festival is moving from its venue in Piazzale Frondizi to the complex comprising the Church and Convent of St Francis in Piazza Quaranta Martiri. The main lectures will take place in the Great Cloister, whilst the Refectory and the Chapter House will host talks, book launches and activities dedicated to miniature painting and calligraphy. This choice is closely linked to the theme of this year’s festival. Gubbio, in fact, occupies a central place in the Franciscan tradition. According to historical sources and local tradition, Francis found refuge there after leaving Assisi, and it was in the city of Saint Ubaldo that he donned the simple habit that would become the symbol of the Order. Gubbio is also linked to one of the best-known episodes from the Fioretti: the encounter with the wolf that was terrorising the countryside.This story also provides the inspiration for the Festival’s subtitle: Homo homini lupus, ‘man is a wolf to man’. This phrase by Plautus, made famous by Thomas Hobbes, describes a state dominated by selfishness, fear and conflict. Francis’s response points to a different path, based on listening, responsibility and the possibility of putting an end to violence.

Once again, the Festival draws on history not to seek out facile parallels, but to understand the depth and origins of issues that span different eras.

On Tuesday 22 September, the opening ‘Evening with an Author’ event featuring Alessandro Barbero, entitled Il tempo di Francesco. From Wednesday 23rd to Sunday 27th, there will be talks with leading Italian and international medievalists, historians, philosophers and writers, daily thematic sessions and accompanying events such as exhibitions, medieval markets, educational areas, performances and historical re-enactments.