Sagra de Lu Gnummariedd Festival

The Gnummariedd Festival in San Michele Salentino

The Sagra de Lu Gnummariedd is one of the most cherished gastronomic events in San Michele Salentino, a small town in the province of Brindisi, tucked away in the Itria Valley, Puglia. The event takes place in the picturesque setting of Borgo Ajeni, the historic heart of the town, and revolves around a product that defines the local rural culture: lu gnummariedd.

What is a Gnummariedd?

The gnummariedd is a traditional charcoal-grilled offal roll, prepared with a mix of lamb or kid offal, wrapped in its own casing along with giant parsley and wild fennel seeds. It is a humble, ancient recipe passed down through generations by the town's butchers, who have always been its guardians. The product has earned the De.Co. (Municipal Designation) label and is recognized as a Traditional Agri-food Product, a status that protects its authenticity and deep bond with the territory.

A Community Event

The festival is organized by the Butchers' Association with the patronage of the Municipality of San Michele Salentino, involving the town's historic butcher shops, some of which have been operating for over a century. During the event, Borgo Ajeni comes alive with stalls, tastings, folk music performances, and discussions on the tourism and culinary value of the product. A traditional lunch with a set menu is also available by reservation, accompanied by live music.

The Car Fair

The festival is held in conjunction with the historic Car Fair of San Michele Salentino, a traditional gathering that attracts exhibitors and visitors from across northern Salento and the Brindisi province, helping to make the event a true collective celebration.

A Symbol of Rural Puglia

More than just a food festival, the event is an opportunity to rediscover the authentic flavors of the Itria Valley and share a culinary tradition rooted in shepherding and the resourceful cooking typical of the Apulian countryside. With its intense aroma of charcoal and aromatic herbs, the gnummariedd has become a culinary ambassador for San Michele Salentino and a source of pride for the entire community.