MedFestival Puglia

A festival that tells the story of the Mediterranean

MedFestival Puglia is one of the most original cultural events in the Ionian region. Conceived and organised by the APS Pro Loco Marciana, with the patronage of the Puglia Region and the Municipality of San Marzano di San Giuseppe, the festival transforms this village in the province of Taranto into an open-air stage dedicated to dialogue between Mediterranean cultures every summer.

The subtitle chosen by the organisers, "Cultural itineraries in the Ionian lands," perfectly captures the spirit of the event: it is not just a concert, but a journey that combines music, theatre, documentary film, visual arts, storytelling, workshops, and flavours. Each edition revolves around a theme, such as "Stories and sounds of the uniting Mediterranean" for the 2025 edition, connecting local artists with international guests.

San Marzano di San Giuseppe, an Arbëreshë village

The choice of location is no coincidence. San Marzano di San Giuseppe is one of the Arbëreshë communities in Puglia, a town of Albanian origin that has preserved its own language, rites, and traditions. This frontier identity, shaped by migration and encounters, naturally aligns with the festival's Mediterranean vocation. The Sanctuary of the Madonna delle Grazie, which hosts most of the events, offers an intimate setting immersed in the quiet of the countryside.

Music, theatre, and flavours

The heart of MedFestival is folk and world music, with bands from the Salento and Mediterranean scenes bringing pizzica, tarantella, and sounds from across the Mediterranean to the stage. Alongside the concerts, there are theatrical readings, storytelling performances, documentary screenings, and photographic exhibitions dedicated to the faces and ports of the Mare Nostrum.

The convivial dimension is also key: a rich gastronomic trail offers typical Apulian dishes, wines, and local products, often accompanied by sections dedicated to other Mediterranean cultures. There are also numerous workshops for children, making the event a perfect destination for the whole family.

A staple of the Ionian summer

Historically, MedFestival Puglia takes place in the height of summer, often around the Night of San Lorenzo, when the sky over the San Marzano countryside is perfect for stargazing. It is a free-entry event that has become a landmark over the years for those in the province of Taranto seeking an authentic cultural experience, far from large commercial circuits and deeply rooted in the local area.