Li Sapori te nna Fiata

A festival of flavors from the past

"Li Sapori te nna Fiata", meaning "flavors of the past" in the Salento dialect, is the food and wine festival that brings the historic center of Melendugno to life every summer. Located in the province of Lecce on the Adriatic coast of Salento, this event is more than just a food fair; it is a true celebration of tradition. As local parish priest Don Salvatore Scardino notes, the event was created to "offer everyone the chance to savor traditional dishes," promoting local cuisine and fostering connection between residents and visitors.

The rustic cuisine of Salento

The core of the event is peasant cuisine, defined by simple ingredients and recipes passed down through generations. Dishes served at the food stalls in Piazza Mons. Durante include:

• Frise topped with tomato, olive oil, and oregano
• Hot pittule, the classic Salento fritters
• Stuffed eggplant
• Pezzetti di cavallo al sugo (horse meat stew), a staple of the Lecce tradition
• Traditional Salento desserts and local wines

Music, crafts, and culture

The festival offers much more than just food. The streets and squares of the village are filled with live folk music and the rhythms of pizzica, the iconic dance of Salento. Visitors can also explore local craft markets, vintage car exhibitions, and workshops dedicated to rural heritage. With photography exhibits and activities designed for families and children, the event is perfect for all ages.

In the heart of Melendugno

Set in the historic center of Melendugno, Piazza Mons. Durante (also known as Piazza Rina Durante) transforms into an open-air parlor filled with scents, flavors, and sounds. Organized by the local Festival Committee and the Parish of Melendugno, the event thrives on a spirit of community participation—the true secret behind this festival. It is a place not just to eat, but to rediscover a piece of the identity of Salento and Puglia.