Cheese and Fava Bean Festival

A spring festival in the heart of the Casentino

The Cheese and Fava Bean Festival is one of the most anticipated events on the calendar in Talla, a tiny village in the province of Arezzo nestled in the Casentino woods at the foot of the Pratomagno mountains. Every May 1st, coinciding with Labor Day, the village comes alive to celebrate the arrival of the warm season with the most authentic flavors of the Tuscan countryside.

Pecorino and fava beans, a traditional pairing

The heart of the festival is a pairing as simple as it is irresistible. Baccelli are nothing more than the youngest, smallest fava beans harvested in the valley during the first days of May: they are enjoyed raw, shelled directly from the pod, with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. They are paired with pecorino cheese, which reaches its peak quality in May and June when the sheep graze on fresh spring grass. It is a rustic custom that reflects the traditional cuisine of the Casentino, where these two products have always represented the local agricultural excellence.

The village of Talla

Known as the birthplace of Guido Monaco, the inventor of modern musical notation, Talla is an authentic stop for those looking to discover the most genuine side of the Casentino, far from the main tourist trails. The festival takes place in Piazza Licio Nencetti, in the town center, and in case of bad weather, it moves indoors to the festival grounds (Parco delle feste).

Good food, wine, and music

Beyond the tasting of cheese and fava beans, the day is dedicated to conviviality: you will find good wine and other typical local products, while the atmosphere is enlivened by live music. The event is organized with passion by the Pro Loco Guido Monaco with the patronage of the Municipality of Talla, and it is a perfect opportunity to combine a spring trip to the Casentino with a genuine snack in the green heart of Tuscany.