The Chestnut Festival of Soriano nel Cimino is far more than a food fair. Throughout October, the town stages historical re-enactments, processions, contests and events tied to its districts, building a programme that links the Cimini's signature product to the village's history. It's one of the province's best-known events, drawing directly on the old town dominated by Castello Orsini.
The districts
The town is divided into districts that take part in the contests and performances. Costumes, banners and processions give the festival a historical re-enactment character that sets it apart from an ordinary autumn fair.
The Cimini chestnut
Chestnut trees are a defining presence in the landscape of the Monti Cimini. During the festival, roasted chestnuts, sweets and traditional dishes accompany the historical and musical events: the product becomes a way of telling the story of Soriano's bond with the surrounding land.
A village in celebration
The festival is also a good chance to visit Soriano in autumn, when the Cimini woods change colour and chestnut season reaches its best.
