Cuddiruni Festival

The Cuddiruni Festival in Ciminna

The Cuddiruni Festival is one of the most beloved food and wine events in the Palermo hinterland. Held every August in Ciminna, a charming village in the Metropolitan City of Palermo, Sicily, the festival revolves entirely around the cuddiruni, the rustic focaccia that serves as the town's culinary symbol. Organized by the Municipality of Ciminna, the event traditionally takes place in Piazza Umberto I, in the heart of the historic center.

What is the cuddiruni?

The cuddiruni is a type of focaccia found in various parts of Sicily, similar to the Palermitan sfincione, but in Ciminna, it has developed unique characteristics that have earned it the De.Co. (Municipal Designation of Origin) status. It is made with a durum wheat semolina dough, extra virgin olive oil, and topped with anchovies, onions, pecorino cheese, breadcrumbs, and oregano. Traditionally, it was baked in a wood-fired oven using leftover dough from home baking; it was once the special treat given to children. The result is a focaccia with a bold, distinct flavor and a soft, fragrant texture.

Tastings, shows, and entertainment

The heart of the festival is the free tasting of the cuddiruni, freshly baked by local master bakers and pizza makers right in front of the public. Alongside the food stalls featuring typical Sicilian products like cured meats, cheeses, and pastries, the program annually offers cabaret shows and entertainment featuring Sicilian comedians, live music, open-air exhibitions, and folklore performances. Recent editions have also been enriched by video mapping shows projected onto the village's monuments, highlighting Ciminna's architectural heritage.

A celebration for the village

The Cuddiruni Festival is part of the local development initiatives promoted by the Municipality, supported by PNRR funds dedicated to the attractiveness of small villages. The goal is to showcase a product of Ciminna's culinary tradition while enlivening summer evenings with culture, art, and gastronomy, transforming the town squares into a vibrant meeting place for one night.