Festa de li Squacciafichere

A festival that tells the story of Atessa's soul

The Festa de li Squacciafichere is the summer event that best captures the identity of Atessa, one of the most populous villages in the province of Chieti, overlooking the Val di Sangro in Abruzzo. Each year, in August, the central Piazza Garibaldi transforms into a grand stage dedicated to the region's iconic product: the Fico Secco Reale of Atessa, a certified Slow Food Presidium.

Why "squacciafichere"?

The event's name comes from the nickname historically used to tease the locals: "squacciafichere," or those who squash figs. It recalls an ancient, daily chore: opening and flattening ripe figs to dry them in the sun. For centuries, dried figs were a cornerstone of the local economy; traces of them have been found in a local Roman villa dating back to the 1st century BC, and in 1320, King Robert of Anjou imposed specific taxes on the product, proving its commercial value.

The Fico Secco Reale, a Slow Food Presidium

The true heart of the festival is the Fico Reale, known in the local dialect as "caracìne." Its preparation follows a traditional ritual: manual harvesting, drying on "cannizzi" (reed mats), stuffing with a walnut kernel, oven-caramelizing, and scenting with bay leaves. The Slow Food recognition supports young producers who keep this noble, ancient tradition alive according to strict quality standards.

What to expect

The evening comes alive with food stalls offering a themed menu where figs are featured in every course, from appetizers to desserts, alongside other local specialties. There is no shortage of folk performances, live music, and festive gatherings in the square. One of the most anticipated moments is the presentation of the Premio Squacciafichero D.O.P., an award for those who have helped promote Atessa beyond its borders.

A community celebration

The Festa de li Squacciafichere is organized by the Atessa Ventunesimo Secolo association. Over the years, it has strengthened ties and twinning agreements far beyond Abruzzo, welcoming delegations from various Italian towns and even abroad. It is much more than a food and wine festival: it is a collective ritual that weaves together taste, rural memory, and local pride, drawing thousands of residents and visitors to the square.