Biodiversity Fair

The Biodiversity Fair of Locorotondo

In the heart of the Itria Valley, surrounded by dry-stone walls and the iconic trulli of Locorotondo (Province of Bari), the Biodiversity Fair is the premier autumn event celebrating the genetic wealth of Apulian agriculture. The festival takes place at Masseria Ferragnano, the headquarters of the CRSFA "Basile Caramia"—a centre dedicated to research, experimentation, and training in agriculture that has spent years preserving and studying the region's viticultural, olive, and fruit germplasm.

Launched in 2024, the Fair has quickly become a landmark for those who understand that agricultural biodiversity is not just a niche academic topic, but a vital resource for the future of food, the landscape, and the rural economy of Southern Italy. Here, researchers, nurserymen, farmers, and enthusiasts gather to share the story of their work in recovering ancient local varieties of figs, peaches, apricots, cherries, plums, almonds, grapes, and olives.

A weekend of science, taste, and tradition

The programme blends scientific rigour with the festive atmosphere of a local village fair. The days kick off with conferences and technical focus sessions dedicated to germplasm conservation and crop adaptation to climate change, featuring international experts. Alongside these meetings, the event comes alive with a market exhibition featuring local producers, Slow Food Earth Markets from Martina Franca and Crispiano, guided tastings curated by AIS Puglia, and tours of the Biodiversity Museum.

• Pomological exhibition "The Biodiversity Garden," showcasing recovered ancient fruits;
• Sensory workshops and guided tours of the Regional Conservation Centre;
• Activities and workshops for children, designed to connect the youngest visitors with the land and plants;
• Tastings, food trucks, and local products from the Itria Valley;
• Shows, comedy, and concerts to close out the days.

Why you should attend

Visiting the Biodiversity Fair means entering a space where agricultural research opens its doors to the public: you can stroll through the collection fields, sample single-varietal wines and fruits that have all but vanished from modern markets, and hear the stories of the farmers who guard these seeds. It is the perfect opportunity to combine cultural discovery with a weekend in the most authentic Puglia, exploring Locorotondo, Martina Franca, Cisternino, and the other white-washed villages of the Itria Valley.

Admission to the market areas and outdoor events is designed for families and curious visitors of all ages, fostering the informal and convivial spirit that is the true soul of Apulian festivals.