A weekend of flavor, music, and tradition in the heart of the Lepini Mountains
In the heart of the Lazio region, perched on the Lepini Mountains near Rome, the medieval village of Carpineto Romano dedicates an entire weekend each February to its most fragrant treasure: the black truffle (Tuber melanosporum). The Lepini Black Truffle Festival is an event with roots dating back to 1997, which has evolved into one of the most anticipated food and wine gatherings in the Lepini area, attracting visitors from across the entire Metropolitan City of Rome.
The territory of Carpineto Romano, with its holm oak and oak forests and unique geological conditions, provides the ideal habitat for the Tuber melanosporum, which matures between November and March. Experts consider the "Carpineto Black" to be one of the most renowned and aromatic truffles in Europe. During the festival, this prized tuber is featured in countless ways: on bruschetta, with eggs, in pasta dishes, paired with local cheeses, infused in oils, or served as creams and pรขtรฉsโall accompanied by red wines from the Castelli Romani.
Organized by the municipal Department of Culture in collaboration with local associations, the event is more than just a culinary celebration. The program alternates between tastings at historic center food stalls, the LepinArt craft market, the Black Truffle Fair featuring local producers, and entertainment for all ages. The heart of the tradition is the parade of the Flag-wavers and Musicians of the 7 Historic Districts, who fill the village streets with vibrant flags and drumbeats.
Wandering through the alleys and squares of Carpineto Romano is an experience in itself. The village, birthplace of Pope Leo XIII, preserves a charming medieval historic center, with Piazza Regina Margherita serving as the beating heart of the festival. The event is the perfect opportunity to combine a culinary journey with the discovery of the historical and landscape heritage of the Lepini Mountains, in an authentic and still-undiscovered corner of Lazio.
The Lepini Black Truffle Festival returned to Carpineto Romano on Saturday, February 28, and Sunday, March 1, 2026, enlivening the squares and alleys of the medieval village with a packed program of taste, music, and tradition. The event, organized by the Department of Culture in collaboration with local associations, featured the prized black truffle of the Lepini Mountains, showcased through tastings, food stalls, and the Truffle Fair.
Sunday, the most vibrant day, combined the LepinArt craft market, the parade of the Flag-wavers and Musicians of the 7 Historic Districts, music by the Marrakesh Express Blues Band, and the theatrical performance "Volpone" at the municipal Auditorium.
Carpineto Romano is located in the Lepini Mountains, in the province of Rome. By car, it can be reached via the Via Casilina or the SS Prenestina, continuing onto the provincial roads that climb toward the village. The journey from Rome takes about an hour and a half. During the festival weekend, the historic center becomes a pedestrian zone (Via Matteotti) with parking restrictions: it is recommended to use the parking lots on the outskirts of the village.
Admission to the event is free. Dishes, tastings, and products at the food stalls and the Truffle Fair are available for purchase.
Sunday is the most action-packed day of the program: we recommend arriving in the morning to enjoy the Truffle Fair, the LepinArt market, and the flag-waver parade. Wear warm, comfortable clothing, given the altitude and the winter season.
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Centro storico di Carpineto Romano
Piazza Regina Margherita, 00032 Carpineto Romano