For over sixty years, in the stunning setting of Montalcino, the
Sagra del Tordo has been celebrated. This highly traditional event takes place on the
last Sunday of October and is a
medieval festival first held in
1958. It is undoubtedly considered the most important event in this charming Tuscan town, featuring a variety of exciting activities and historical reenactments.
Sagra del Tordo: What the Event Is About
The Sagra del Tordo (Festival of the Thrush) finds its roots in the districts of Montalcino, through which the town relives its historical past and traditions, making it one of the oldest festivals in Tuscany. Visitors have the chance to savor the
local culinary delights, dominated by the renowned
Brunello di Montalcino, while experiencing the unique and evocative atmosphere of the past. During the festival, you can enjoy dishes like
pici with sauce,
pappardelle with wild boar ragù, or succulent
grilled meats, all paired with an excellent glass of red wine.
The historical reenactments and performances involve the
four districts, which parade through the streets of Montalcino in traditional costumes. Let’s take a closer look at the events included in the program.
The Four Districts of Montalcino
The four districts of this Tuscan village are
Borghetto, represented by white and red attire;
Pianello, wearing white and blue;
Ruga, whose colors are yellow and blue; and
Travaglio, adorned in bright yellow and red. The highlight of the festival is the
archery competition, where these four districts face off in an intense and thrilling contest. The competition is complemented by other historical events, such as parades, flag bearers, and figures in period costumes, allowing participants to fully immerse themselves in the ambiance of a bygone era.
The Origins of the Sagra del Tordo
As mentioned, the origins of this festival date back a long way, tied to the
hunting season that began in August and reflects the area's hunting traditions. Montalcino’s territory is ideal for cultivating
vines and
olive trees and witnessed a significant migration of birds, especially
thrushes, in October. Men from the village would go hunting, and upon returning with their catch, their wives would prepare traditional dishes to celebrate the hunt’s success.
This tradition is revived during the
last weekend of October throughout the streets of Montalcino, with locals dressed in medieval costumes, parades, and folk music creating a truly festive and joyful atmosphere.
A visit to the Sagra del Tordo is a must to enhance your stay in these lands. It offers the chance to relive the emotions of the medieval era while tasting the region's delicacies. Discover all the
events held in the magnificent village of Montalcino in our article!