Cigoli Marzuolo Truffle Market Exhibition

Cigoli, the village of the marzuolo truffle

Every March, the small village of Cigoli, a hillside hamlet of San Miniato in the province of Pisa, becomes the capital of a lesser-known but precious truffle: the marzuolo truffle, also called bianchetto. Its name reflects its season, as it is harvested in March, just as the famous San Miniato white truffle season concludes. The Marzuolo Truffle Market Exhibition is the moment this local treasure gets its own celebration, spread over two consecutive weekends.

San Miniato, a land of truffles in Tuscany

We are in the San Miniato district, one of the most important names in Tuscan truffle culture, world-renowned for its autumn white truffle. Cigoli carries on this tradition in spring, showcasing a more accessible truffle with an intense aroma, perfect for grating over tagliatelle or a fried egg. The event was born from a desire to promote the local area and its flavors, organized by the San Miniato Promozione Foundation together with the Giuseppe Gori Association, whose volunteers are the beating heart of the festival.

A village of taste

During the exhibition, the streets and squares of Cigoli fill with stalls. Visitors can taste and purchase fresh marzuolo truffle alongside other local specialties, from wine and extra virgin olive oil to cured meats, cheeses, and local delicacies. The gastronomic hub is the "I Giorni del Tartufo" restaurant, set up and managed by the G. Gori Association volunteers, where you can enjoy traditional dishes enhanced by the scent of truffles.

Challenges, truffle dogs, and entertainment

• The Marzuolo Challenge: A culinary competition where amateur cooks, guided by a chef, showcase the best interpretations of the marzuolo truffle.
• Truffle dog demonstrations: Displays and competitions revealing the patient work of the truffle hunter and their faithful four-legged companion.
• Exhibitions, art events, and children's entertainment: The festival is designed for families, with activities and entertainment for the little ones.

A village to discover

The Market Exhibition is also the perfect opportunity to visit Cigoli, a village rich in history and monuments. This is the birthplace of the painter and architect Ludovico Cardi, known as "il Cigoli," an artist active at the Medici court. The village also houses the famous Sanctuary of the Madonna Madre dei Bimbi, one of the most revered Marian pilgrimage sites in Tuscany. A stroll through its streets, with a truffle dish and a glass of wine from the Pisan hills, is the best way to experience this village festival.