Montiano Fried Chicken and Fava Bean Festival

A spring festival in the heart of the Maremma

In the hilltop village of Montiano, a hamlet of the Municipality of Magliano in Toscana, in the province of Grosseto, the May 1st long weekend coincides with one of the most heartfelt events for the community: the Fried Chicken and Fava Bean Festival. For three days, the village, perched at about 260 meters above sea level among the Maremma hills, transforms into a large celebration where local cuisine takes center stage.

Fried chicken and fava beans, symbols of the Maremma table

The festival's name says it all: fried chicken, crispy and golden, and fava beans (fresh spring broad beans) served with cheese are the two dishes that define this event. They are the heart of a menu that showcases Maremma's gastronomic tradition, from appetizers to homemade desserts, all prepared by local volunteers using regional products and flavors.

What to eat

• Appetizers: Maremma-style platter, fava beans and cheese
• First courses: Tortelli with meat sauce, tortelli with butter and sage, penne all'arrabbiata
• Main courses: Fried chicken, veal steak, grilled sausage
• Side dishes: Fried artichokes, green salad
• Desserts: Homemade sweets

A community celebration

Organized by U.S.D. Montiano, the local sports club, the festival is first and foremost a gathering place for village residents and visitors arriving from across the Maremma. The long tables under the marquee, the convivial evenings, and the genuine hospitality of the Montianesi make this festival an authentic experience, far from mass tourism circuits.

Montiano and its historic village

The festival is also an opportunity to discover a small jewel of the Maremma. Montiano preserves the 13th-century church of San Giovanni Battista, a 12th-century clock tower that once served as the seat of the Aldobrandeschi family, and the remains of ancient walls and a medieval castle. A walk through the village alleys, before or after lunch, completes the visit by immersing the visitor in the history of this corner of Tuscany.

When it takes place

The Montiano Fried Chicken and Fava Bean Festival is traditionally held during the May 1st long weekend, with food stands open for lunch on Friday, dinner on Saturday, and both lunch and dinner on Sunday. Admission is free.