Chestnut Festival of Caprese Michelangelo

Festa della Castagna di Caprese Michelangelo

Local Tradition

Highlights

  • Celebrates chestnuts of Caprese Michelangelo
  • Connects with the history of Michelangelo
  • Free event with food and activities
  • Many pilgrims take alternate route from La Verna to this town
QUICK INFO
Stage:
Town:
Caprese Michelangelo
Address:
Caprese Michelangelo, 52033 Province of Arezzo, Italy
When:

Occurs annually, last two weeks of October

Admission Fees:

Free

Additional Info:

Caprese Michelangelo is on an alternate route after La Verna

Overview

The Festa della Castagna di Caprese Michelangelo is an annual event held in the picturesque village of Caprese Michelangelo, Tuscany, celebrating the region’s delicious chestnuts.

Taking place during the last two weekends of October, the festival is a time when locals and visitors come together to enjoy the fruits of the season, along with other local delicacies like cheese, honey, mushrooms, and truffles.

The streets of the historic center are filled with stalls offering fresh chestnuts and other products, as well as tents where attendees can enjoy a variety of traditional dishes prepared by those who know Tuscan cuisine best.

This event takes place in the birthplace of the famous artist, Michelangelo, and the festival highlights the strong connection between the village and its most renowned son.

The chestnuts of Caprese Michelangelo have a rich history dating back to the medieval times when monks first planted the trees. These chestnuts have sustained the villagers through harsh winters, and in 2010, they achieved protected status as Marrone di Caprese Michelangelo DOP.

History

The tradition of chestnut harvesting in Caprese Michelangelo can be traced back to medieval times when monks first planted the trees. Chestnuts have played a vital role in the survival of the village’s inhabitants, especially during the harsh winter months.

In 2010, the chestnuts were granted protected status as Marrone di Caprese Michelangelo DOP, highlighting their significance in the region’s culture and history.

The village of Caprese Michelangelo has a deep connection to the famous artist, as it was his birthplace on March 6, 1475. Michelangelo’s early years were spent in the village, where he was left in the care of a family of stonecutters.

This experience likely influenced his decision to become a sculptor and painter. The village has since officially added Michelangelo’s name to its own, becoming known as Caprese Michelangelo, and his birthplace now serves as a museum.

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