Le Cantine di San Martino

Le Cantine di San Martino in Arce

Le Cantine di San Martino is the festival that, every autumn, breathes new life into the historic center of Arce, a small village in the Liri Valley in the province of Frosinone, in the heart of Ciociaria (Lazio). During the St. Martin's weekend, when the popular saying goes that "on St. Martin's Day every must becomes wine," the ancient cellars carved beneath the village houses open their doors and transform into cozy taverns. It is the perfect time to sample the season's first new wine, paired with the most authentic flavors of the local tradition.

A tradition spanning over twenty years

Organized by the ViviAmo Arce Cultural Association with the patronage of the Municipality of Arce, the event has grown over time to become one of the most important and anticipated food and wine events in lower Lazio. For over two decades, it has attracted thousands of visitors who, strolling through the alleys, arches, and stairways of the historic center, rediscover the hospitality and conviviality of the Ciociarian communities.

What to taste

The gourmet trail winds from cellar to cellar, where local producers offer new wine alongside the iconic dishes of Ciociarian cuisine. Specialties you can find along the way include:

• New wine from the best local wineries;
• Polenta prepared according to tradition;
• Sausages and grilled meats;
• Soups and stews of peasant cuisine;
• Traditional desserts and local products.

Music, art, and crafts

The festival is not just about gastronomy: throughout the event, the village is enlivened by live music, street performer shows, and craft markets, creating a vibrant and engaging atmosphere for families, young people, and curious visitors alike. Every corner of the historic center becomes a stage for the sounds, colors, and scents that define the identity of Arce and Ciociaria.

An appointment in the heart of Ciociaria

Linked to the feast of St. Martin and the ancient ritual of opening the new wine, the event combines food and wine, popular culture, and the promotion of the village's historical heritage. For visitors, it is the ideal opportunity to discover an authentic corner of southern Lazio, far from the most beaten tourist paths, and to enjoy a day dedicated to taste and tradition.