Sagne alla Molinara Festival

A humble dish turned into a celebration

The Sagne alla Molinara Festival is one of the most anticipated events of the summer in Cittaducale, a village in the Rieti province, nestled in the heart of the Lazio Sabina region. Every August, the streets and squares of the historic center come alive with enticing aromas and crowds gathered to celebrate a traditional peasant dish: sagne alla molinara, wide sheets of fresh pasta prepared entirely by hand.

The name pays homage to the molinari, the millers who once worked in the numerous mills along the Velino River. It was a quick, frugal meal, stretched without a rolling pin or board, using only the strength of one's hands. This ancient technique is still performed today by the local housewives, who demonstrate their culinary artistry live in front of visitors.

A traditional sauce

The sagne are served with a simple yet intense sauce that tells the story of the land: tomato, garlic, oil, marjoram (locally known as persa), wild thyme, and chili pepper. With just a few ingredients sourced from the Rieti countryside, this rustic and flavorful first course delights both locals and the many tourists passing through every year.

In the heart of the Agosto Angioino

The festival is the gastronomic centerpiece of the Agosto Angioino, a rich calendar of events that animates Cittaducale for most of the month with shows, concerts, and historical re-enactments. The village, founded in 1308 by Charles II of Anjou, preserves its intact medieval layout: the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Popolo, the Angevin Tower, and noble palaces provide a stunning natural backdrop for the festivities.

More than just food

The festival evening extends well beyond the dinner table. The program typically features live music with bands and tribute acts, food stalls opening in the late afternoon, and in some editions, guided tours of the ancient local mills, which have been restored and reopened for the occasion. It is a perfect way to combine the pleasure of good food with the discovery of Cittaducale's historical and scenic heritage.

Why attend

• Taste authentic sagne alla molinara hand-made by local housewives
• Experience the atmosphere of a medieval Lazio village in celebration
• Enjoy live music under the August stars
• Discover the history of the Velino Valley mills

A convivial, popular, and genuine evening that brings the flavors and traditions of the past back to life in the charming historic center of Cittaducale.