Rocca Festival and its Territory
Three days of history, nature, sport, and gastronomy at the foot of the Ripafratta Fortress
About Rocca Festival
A festival to rediscover Ripafratta and its Fortress
The Rocca Festival and its Territory is the most anticipated event of the year in Ripafratta, a charming hamlet in the municipality of San Giuliano Terme, in the province of Pisa. For three days, the village, dominated by the imposing Rocca di San Paolino, transforms into a large open-air laboratory where history, hiking, outdoor sports, and gastronomy intertwine in a program designed for all ages.
Born from the efforts of the Pro Loco Ripafratta "Salviamo la Rocca" association, the event aims to promote and restore the medieval fortress and the entire surrounding area, particularly Monte Pisano and the Serchio river valley. Each edition raises funds and awareness for a heritage that tells centuries of history between Pisa and Lucca.
History and Heritage
The Rocca di Ripafratta stands in a strategic position along the ancient border between the republics of Pisa and Lucca, guarding the narrow gorge of the Serchio. During the festival, it is possible to visit the fortress, the medieval towers scattered across the area—such as the Torre Centìno and Torre Segata—and the village bell tower, accompanied by volunteer guides who share stories, legends, and curiosities.
Nature, Sport, and Outdoor Activities
The calendar offers numerous experiences immersed in the nature of Monte Pisano:
- Trekking and guided excursions along the paths towards the fortifications and hermitages of the area, in collaboration with CAI Pisa and FIAB;
- Canoeing and kayaking on the Serchio, with daytime and night-time sessions;
- Forest yoga, moments of wellness in the shade of the trees;
- Historical archery and demonstration activities;
- Bicycle rides from Pisa to Ripafratta.
Culture and Gastronomy
There is no shortage of book presentations, in-depth meetings on local history and the Resistance on Monte Pisano, astronomical observations, and live concerts. The convivial heart of the festival is the Food Festival (Sagra), with lunches and dinners based on traditional Tuscan dishes, the AperiVeglia aperitif in the garden of Villa Danielli Stefanini, and the Ripafratta Blues evening with craft beer and music.
The Rocca Festival is now one of the most vibrant cultural volunteer events in the province of Pisa and all of Tuscany: an event that unites the community of Ripafratta and San Giuliano Terme in the name of protecting their heritage.
Rocca Festival — edition 2026
The 2026 edition of the Rocca Festival and its Territory is scheduled in Ripafratta (San Giuliano Terme, Pisa) from September 4 to 6, 2026, the first weekend of the month. This is the 14th edition of the event organized by the Pro Loco Ripafratta "Salviamo la Rocca".
As per tradition, the program will alternate guided tours of the Rocca di San Paolino, the medieval towers, and the bell tower, trekking and excursions on Monte Pisano, activities on the Serchio river (canoeing and kayaking), forest yoga, historical archery, book presentations, cultural meetings, and live music. All accompanied by the food festival featuring traditional Tuscan dishes.
Programme Rocca Festival 2026
The detailed program for the 2026 edition, day by day and with the times of individual activities, will be published by the organizers in the weeks preceding the event on the official website ripafratta.it/festa.
Based on previous editions, the festival usually offers:
- Guided tours of the Rocca di San Paolino, the village, the medieval towers (Torre Centìno, Torre Segata), and the bell tower, including night-time versions;
- Trekking and excursions along the paths of Monte Pisano, in collaboration with CAI Pisa, FIAB, and local associations;
- Canoeing and kayaking on the Serchio, with daytime and night-time sessions;
- Forest yoga and historical archery;
- Cultural meetings, book presentations, and astronomical observations;
- Concerts and live music (Ripafratta Blues evening);
- The food festival with lunches and dinners based on Tuscan cuisine and the AperiVeglia aperitif.
Highlights Rocca Festival 2026
Prices Rocca Festival 2026
Practical information — Rocca Festival
How to get there
Ripafratta can be reached by train (Ripafratta FS station, on the Pisa-Lucca line) or by car along the SS12 dell'Abetone e del Brennero. Parking is available near the train station.
Reservations and Info Point
During the festival, an info point is active for reservations and directions. Booking is recommended for guided tours, trekking, and sports activities (canoe/kayak), while the food festival does not require reservations.
Contacts
Pro Loco Ripafratta "Salviamo la Rocca" — Tel. and WhatsApp +39 339 8358584 — Email [email protected] — Website www.ripafratta.it/festa
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Where does it take place — Rocca Festival
Rocca di San Paolino (Rocca di Ripafratta)
Via della Rocca, Ripafratta, 56017 San Giuliano Terme