Contignano Spring Festival

The Contignano Spring Festival

The Contignano Spring Festival is an annual event held in late April that celebrates the return of spring in one of the most peaceful villages in the Val d'Orcia. Contignano is a small hamlet within the municipality of Radicofani, in the province of Siena, nestled at an altitude of about 480 meters on the left bank of the Orcia River, just a short distance from Pienza, San Quirico d'Orcia, and the thermal spa towns of Bagno Vignoni and San Casciano dei Bagni. Organized by the Pro Loco of Contignano, the festival has quickly become a highly anticipated date for both residents and visitors.

The market in the historic center

The heart of the day is the market, which takes over the streets of the historic center from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm. Among the stalls, you will find local specialties, handicrafts, spring plants and flowers, and creations by local hobbyists. It is the perfect opportunity for a leisurely stroll through the village alleys, soaking in the genuine atmosphere of the Sienese countryside.

Tours of the Cassero del Castello

During the festival, it is possible to join guided tours of the Cassero del Castello di Contignano, available in two time slots (morning and afternoon), with mandatory booking. The village's historic core is dominated by the fortress tower, once the stronghold of a defensive and residential complex, while the hamlet also preserves the Romanesque church of San Pietro, featuring its famous Della Robbia terracotta works. The visit offers a chance to explore the historical layers of this corner of the Val d'Orcia.

Traditional games and heritage

In the afternoon, starting at 3:00 pm, traditional folk games come to life, including the characteristic cacio al fuso (cheese rolling) game, a test of skill that recalls the ancient pastimes of the village. It is a festive moment that brings together young and old, highlighting the community's deep connection to its roots.

The trails of Ghino di Tacco

Among the day's highlights is the trekking excursion along "The Trails of Ghino di Tacco", a walking route that winds through the surrounding countryside. The name pays homage to Ghino di Tacco, the famous Sienese "noble brigand" who, at the end of the 13th century, seized the Fortress of Radicofani to carry out his exploits along the Via Francigena, earning mentions by Dante in the Purgatorio and Boccaccio in the Decameron. Walking these paths means combining the discovery of the landscape with that of local history.

An authentic experience in the Val d'Orcia

The Pro Loco stand remains open all day, offering sandwiches and drinks for a convivial break. The Contignano Spring Festival does not aim for mass crowds but rather for authenticity: it is a portrait of a community opening its village to visitors, offering a day of tradition, nature, and hospitality in the heart of Tuscany, within the UNESCO World Heritage territory of the Val d'Orcia.