Festa dell'Alta Maremma: tradition and flavors in Civitella

The Festa dell'Alta Maremma in Civitella Marittima: an authentic dive into the heart of hidden Tuscany

Dear friends of authentic Tuscany, today I'm taking you to a little gem of Maremma, Civitella Marittima, for a festival that, believe me, is well worth the trip: the Festa dell'Alta Maremma. Forget the crowds of Florence or Siena; here, we are at the heart of a living tradition, organized with passion by the local Pro Loco for more than half a century. It's the kind of event that stirs the soul, where history blends with flavors, and where conviviality reigns supreme.

Imagine a medieval village perched on the hills of the Ardenghesca, in the province of Grosseto. Every year, in early June, Civitella Marittima comes alive for three days, transforming into a vibrant stage where past and present dance together. In 2026, this festival, now in its 54th edition, will take place from June 5 to 7. Mark your calendars!

A journey through time: the medieval soul of the festival

What strikes you first at the Festa dell'Alta Maremma is its historical dimension. The paved streets and alleys of the historic center become the setting for a true medieval immersion. The Historical Procession of the Corte dell'Ardenghesca is a spectacle in itself. Pay particular attention to these costumed parades evoking the ancient lords who once ruled this region. You will see agile flag-bearers, rousing drummers, elegant ladies, and proud knights, all animating the village with contagious energy.

But the experience doesn't stop there. Traveling theater performances pop up around every street corner, medieval music and dances resound, and historical games captivate young and old alike. Talented jugglers add a touch of magic to the whole. It's a reconstitution crafted in the finest detail, capable of recreating the authentic atmosphere of a Tuscan medieval village, far from tourist clichés. To explore other historical treasures of the region, feel free to check out our guide on the Etruscan sites in Tuscany.

The highlight of the show: the Palio dei Carretti

If you love adrenaline and local challenges, you cannot miss the Gran Palio Storico dei Carretti. It is the highlight and the most eagerly awaited moment of the festival, which takes place on Sunday afternoon, usually around 5:30 pm. Imagine carts hurtling at full speed down the steep slopes of the village streets! It's a breathtaking race that challenges the speed and skill of the crews, representing the different districts of the village: Maremma, Centro, and Periferia. The winning district wins a work of art created by a local artist, a beautiful way to celebrate art and community.

And for the youngest? The Mini Palio dei Carretti is reserved for them on Saturday afternoon, around 4:30 pm, for children aged 6 to 14. An excellent opportunity for the new generation to make this tradition their own. Don't forget my tips: wear comfortable shoes, as the streets are steep, and arrive early on Sunday to find the best spot along the route!

A feast for the senses: Maremma gastronomy

But what would an Italian village festival be without exceptional cuisine? The Festa dell’Alta Maremma is a golden opportunity to discover the most authentic Maremma gastronomy. The food stands generally open from 7:00 pm every evening, and on Sunday, they are also open at noon.

Get your taste buds ready! You will find typical local dishes there, some of which will take you back in time. I am thinking in particular of the’acquacotta, a traditional peasant soup, and the frascarelli, these rustic pasta, and the pinci fatti a mano, delicious handmade pasta. Meat lovers will be delighted with the cacciagione (game meat), especially wild boar. For a deeper immersion in local flavors, check out our article on the wild boar cacciatora style, an emblematic dish of the wild Maremma. And to end on a high note, don't miss the famous ciambellini co’ l'unto, traditional fritters. All of this will of course be accompanied by great local wines, from the famous Morellino di Scansano to the other reds from the surrounding hills. It is a festival rooted in the ancient Sagra dell'acquacotta e del pollo ruspante, proof of its deep gastronomic roots. If you wish to explore other markets and sagras, our complete calendar of Maremma markets will be very useful.

Atmosphere and practicality

After sunset, the village continues to live with live music and DJ sets under the stars, creating a festive atmosphere accessible to all ages. It is a true village festival, where the community of Civitella Marittima welcomes visitors with typically Tuscan warmth.

Access and practical information:

• 2026 dates: From Friday June 5 to Sunday June 7.
• Address: Civitella Marittima, Civitella Paganico (GR), Tuscany, Italy.
• Access: Civitella Marittima is easily accessible from the S.S. 223 Siena-Grosseto, Civitella Marittima exit. By car, allow about 35 km from Grosseto and 40 km from Siena. The nearest train station is in Grosseto, from where you can continue by car or local transport. For more details on transportation, see our guide How to get to Maremma.
• Prices: Entrance to the village and the festival is free. Only consumption at the food stands is paid.
• Contacts: For any information, you can contact the Pro Loco of Civitella Marittima by email (info@prolococivitellamarittima.it) or by phone at +39 0575 448141.

The Festa dell'Alta Maremma is much more than a simple village festival; it is an authentic immersion in the culture, history and flavors of the Tuscan Maremma. If you are looking for a truly local experience, off the beaten path, I can only recommend coming to discover this little corner of paradise. You will find a rare balance between careful historical reenactment and popular spontaneity, all in a warm and unforgettable atmosphere.