Mass in the Genoese language and traditional flavors in Val Vobbia
The Genovese Festival of 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 meters above sea level in the picturesque Val Vobbia. It is a festival that celebrates Genoese identity and language, in a rural and intimate setting.
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.
The festival continues with the show "Superbamente" by Marco Rinaldi, a performance of stories, rhymes, and laughter about Genoa and the Genoese spirit. At the table, the menu offers traditional specialties: baked lasagna and Genoese 'cima', with typical side dishes. A day that combines faith, culture, humor, and good food.
Vobbia is best known for the striking Castello della Pietra (Stone Castle), perched between two rock spires, and for the landscapes of the Antola Park. The Genovese Festival of Vallenzona is an invitation to discover this little-known mountainous hinterland, where Genoese traditions and language are still a living part of the community.
For 2026, the Genovese Festival of Vallenzona is expected on a Sunday in August, following the usual summer schedule. The day will include a mass celebrated in the Genoese dialect, accompanied by the choir and bell ringers of Val Vobbia, the show on Genoese spirit, and the traditional lunch with baked lasagna and Genoese 'cima'. The precise date will be announced by the Pro Loco of Vobbia closer to the event.
The program and date for the 2026 edition will be announced by the Pro Loco of Vobbia. The usual structure of the day includes:
August, one Sunday (the 2026 date will be announced by the Pro Loco closer to the event).
Vallenzona, hamlet of Vobbia (GE), Val Vobbia.
About an hour's drive from Genoa, take the A7 motorway (exit Isola del Cantone) and then provincial road 8. Car is recommended.
Free admission to the festival; lunch by reservation.
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Vallenzona, frazione di Vobbia