Castagnata in Piazza

An autumn festival in the village of Radicondoli

The Castagnata in Piazza is one of the most cherished autumn events in Radicondoli, a small town in the Province of Siena, Tuscany. Perched at an altitude of over 500 meters in the Sienese Colline Metallifere, bordering the Upper Val d'Elsa, this medieval village with its narrow stone streets welcomes residents and visitors every October to Piazza Giacomo Matteotti, the town's main square, to celebrate chestnuts and the fruits of the season.

Chestnuts, flavors, and conviviality

The heart of the festival is the roasted chestnut, the absolute star of the afternoon. Alongside the roasted chestnuts, stalls offer pastries, sandwiches, grilled dishes, and quality beer: a convivial outdoor dinner that invites you to linger and discover the genuine flavors of this corner of Tuscany. The atmosphere is that of an authentic village fair, where good food is paired with great company and the slow pace of the village.

Music and tradition

The Castagnata is not just about gastronomy: the program alternates live music, DJ sets, and moments linked to local folk culture, such as ottava rima storytelling—the ancient form of improvised poetry from the Tuscan peasant tradition—and performances by the local philharmonic band. The setting is completed by flower sales in front of the Collegiate Church and the lights that illuminate the village as evening falls.

Radicondoli and the Colline Metallifere

Visiting Radicondoli during the Castagnata is also an opportunity to discover a surprising territory: an untouched medieval village between Florence and Siena, nestled in the woods and geothermal hills of the Colline Metallifere, with the hamlet of Belforte and a landscape that turns into the warmest colors in autumn. An ideal destination for those seeking the most authentic Tuscany, far from the main tourist flows.

An event organized by the Pro Loco

The event is organized by the Pro Loco of Radicondoli, with the support of the Municipality and the Tuscany Region. Like many traditional festivals, the Castagnata has free admission and takes place from the afternoon until the evening, with food and drinks available for purchase on-site.