Festa dei Crotti

A festival born from the crotti

The Festa dei Crotti in Albavilla is one of the most established autumn events in the Triangolo Lariano, in the heart of the province of Como. Its name says it all: the crotti are natural cavities in the rock, through which a constant cold air current flows, maintaining an almost unchanged temperature all year round. For centuries, they were the pantry, the cellar, and the convivial meeting place for local families. The festival was created precisely to reopen them to the public and make them the centre of a grand gastronomic tour through the village streets.

What to eat and experience

Along the streets of Albavilla's historic centre, the open crotti become tasting stops, where you can sample and buy typical Larian products: cured meats, mountain cheeses, polenta, honey, and local wines. A full catering service is available in the marquees of the Market Area, while all around there are entertainment, music, and activities designed for both adults and children.

Quality mark and numbers

The event, organised by Pro Loco Albavilla, has obtained the UNPLI Sagra di Qualità mark, an award that recognises the authenticity and organisation of Italian festivals. Each edition attracts thousands of visitors from all over the province of Como and the Brianza region, confirming the Festa dei Crotti as an autumn classic in Lombardy.

A piece of Larian culture

More than just a festival, the event is an opportunity to discover an architectural and agricultural tradition that tells the story of the relationship between the communities of Lake Como and the mountains. Visiting a crotto means stepping into a fragment of the daily history of the Municipality of Albavilla, amidst stone walls, cool floors, and the aromas of aging products.