Festa Genovese di Vallenzona

The Genoese spirit of Vallenzona

The Festa Genovese di Vallenzona is a traditional event held in Vallenzona, a small hamlet in the municipality of Vobbia, in the mountainous hinterland of the Metropolitan City of Genoa, at about 600 metres above sea level in the picturesque Val Vobbia. It is a festival that celebrates Genoese identity and language, in a rural and intimate setting.

Mass in the Genoese language

The central moment of the day is the mass celebrated in the Genoese dialect, officiated by Don Carbone. The celebration is accompanied by the Loderò choir of Albenga and the bell ringers of Val Vobbia, creating a fusion of religious tradition and local cultural identity. A rare and evocative rite, which gives voice to an ancient language often confined to the private sphere.

Genoese show and cuisine

The festival continues with the show "Superbamente" by Marco Rinaldi, a performance of stories, rhymes, and laughter about Genoa and Genoese identity. At the table, the menu offers traditional specialities: baked lasagne and Genoese-style 'cima', with typical side dishes. A day that combines faith, culture, humour, and good food.

Val Vobbia, between nature and history

Vobbia is best known for the striking Castello della Pietra, nestled between two rock spires, and for the landscapes of the Antola Park. The Festa Genovese di Vallenzona is an invitation to discover this little-known mountainous hinterland, where traditions and the Genoese language are still a living part of the community.