Polentone Festival

The Polentone Festival of Castel di Tora

In the heart of the Sabina area near Rieti, clinging to the slopes that descend toward Lake Turano, the village of Castel di Tora celebrates one of its most cherished traditions every year: the Polentone Festival. The event takes place on the first Sunday of Lent, transforming the small medieval town—listed among the most beautiful villages in Italy—into a hub of celebration, taste, and shared memory.

A Century-Old Tradition

The recipe and the ritual of the Polentone have roots dating back to around 1920, when, according to local tradition, veterans of the Great War likely introduced the custom of gathering the community for a large shared meal during the Lenten period. Since then, the festival has been passed down from generation to generation, preserved by the local population and now organized by the Pro Loco of Castel di Tora in collaboration with the Fuoriporta association.

The Dish and Its Preparation

The absolute star is the stone-ground polenta, cooked in large copper cauldrons and then poured onto wooden tables, where it is sliced with oil-soaked string according to the ancient method. The topping follows the rules of the Lenten "lean" meal: a sauce made from preserved fish—herring, tuna, salt cod, and anchovies—with a bold and unmistakable flavor. Every year, volunteers prepare several hundred kilograms to satisfy all visitors.

Program and Atmosphere

The highlight arrives at noon, when the cry "The Polentone is served!" kicks off the distribution at the A. Massimi parking area, which is covered to ensure the festival goes ahead regardless of weather conditions. The afternoon continues until 5:00 PM with folk performances, traditional music, and convivial dining that brings the village streets to life. A shuttle bus service makes it easy for visitors to arrive and move around.

The Village and Lake Turano

The Polentone Festival is also the perfect opportunity to discover Castel di Tora, in the province of Rieti, Lazio: its stone alleys, historic churches, and views of Lake Turano offer evocative scenery. Not far away lies the ancient village of Antuni, a destination for walks and guided tours. Taste, nature, and heritage intertwine in a day that captures the authentic soul of the Sabina region.