Pezza de Casce
The cheese wheel race, a centuries-old tradition in Vinchiaturo
About Pezza de Casce
A Centuries-Old Molise Tradition
The Pezza de Casce is one of the most characteristic traditions of Vinchiaturo, a village in the province of Campobasso. It is a popular race, with centuries-old roots, in which two teams compete by rolling a cheese wheel along a predetermined route in the town center.
The Rules of the Game
The Parmigiano-Reggiano wheel is rolled from Largo della Chiesa di Santa Croce to Casa Jacampo. The men's teams compete with a wheel weighing about 30 kg, while the women's teams use one weighing about 18 kg. When the wheel disappears from view down the slope, the crowd lets out the characteristic cry "j'è ceca!", a dialect expression that marks the rhythm of the race.
Carnival and Patronal Feast
The Pezza de Casce, organized by the Pro Loco Vinchiaturo, traditionally takes place during Carnival, but is also revived in a version for children during the celebrations for the patron saint, San Bernardino. It is a historical game that preserves the memory and popular identity of Molise.
Pezza de Casce — edition 2026
In 2026, the Pezza de Casce renewed the tradition of the cheese wheel race in Vinchiaturo, organized by the Pro Loco during Carnival along the historic center route, from the Church of Santa Croce to Casa Jacampo.
The tradition was also revived in a version for children on May 17, 2026, at 3:00 PM, as part of the celebrations for the patron saint San Bernardino da Siena.
Programme Pezza de Casce 2026
Carnival Period (February 2026) — Historic Center
- Pezza de Casce race: two teams roll a cheese wheel from the Church of Santa Croce to Casa Jacampo (30 kg for men, 18 kg for women)
- Traditional cry "j'è ceca!" when the wheel disappears from view
May 17, 2026 — 3:00 PM (Patronal Feast)
- Edition dedicated to children, organized by Pro Loco Vinchiaturo
Highlights Pezza de Casce 2026
The cheese wheel race with the cry "j'è ceca!" and the edition dedicated to children during the patronal feast.
Prices Pezza de Casce 2026
Practical information — Pezza de Casce
How to get there
Vinchiaturo can be reached by car from Campobasso along the SS17. The race takes place in the historic center, between the Church of Santa Croce and Casa Jacampo.
Tips
Free admission. For dates and information, you can contact Pro Loco Vinchiaturo ([email protected]).
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Where does it take place — Pezza de Casce
Centro storico di Vinchiaturo
Centro storico, 86019 Vinchiaturo