Criscioletta Festival

The Criscioletta Festival in Cascio

Every summer, the village of Cascio, a hamlet of Molazzana in the province of Lucca, becomes the kingdom of the criscioletta, the rustic flatbread that serves as the gastronomic symbol of this corner of Garfagnana. The Criscioletta Festival is one of the most cherished summer events in the Media Valle del Serchio: it was founded in 1969 by the local residents and has since attracted visitors from across the valley and the province of Lucca, as well as many former residents returning for the occasion.

What is a criscioletta?

The criscioletta is a large, thin wafer, only two or three millimeters thick, made from a batter of corn flour and durum wheat flour mixed with water and salt. The batter is poured onto testi (or cotte), iron plates heated over embers and greased with oil or lard—the same ones used for chestnut necci. After four or five minutes of cooking, the flatbread is ready to be enjoyed piping hot, filled with slices of pancetta or delicious cow's milk cheese. It is a dish born of necessity, from the post-war 'cucina povera', which has now become a true local delicacy.

A village to discover

The festival is also the perfect opportunity to visit Cascio, one of the best-preserved villages in the Garfagnana. The historic center is enclosed by quadrilateral walls built in the early 17th century, following the Lucchese conquest of 1603; it still retains two of its five semicircular towers, two access gates, and sections of the original walls. Strolling through the narrow alleys of the village, past the Church of Saints Lorenzo and Stefano and the fortress, is an essential part of the experience.

Atmosphere and activities

In addition to the crisciolette, the festival offers aperitifs and cocktails on the panoramic terrace every evening, along with sweet treats like bomboloni, live music from local bands, dancing, photo exhibitions, and children's entertainment. The stalls also feature other typical Garfagnana products, all in a genuine and festive atmosphere. Historically, a portion of the festival's proceeds is reinvested in the village and donated to charity, reflecting the strong bond between the Cascio community and this tradition.