Saint Martin Fair

The historic 'cappottari' fair

Every November 11th, the feast day of Saint Martin of Tours, Martina Franca transforms into a massive open-air market. The Saint Martin Fair is one of the most deeply rooted traditions of this 'White City' in the Itria Valley. From dawn until midnight, the town's streets and squares overflow with stalls, vendors, livestock, and the scents of approaching winter. It is best known as the 'cappottari fair': along Piazza XX Settembre and Corso Italia, vendors line up to sell coats, jackets, and heavy winter wear, a custom dating back to when local textile manufacturers showcased their finest products here. This gave rise to the saying that on Saint Martin's Day, one buys a new coat—a symbol of the season and the city itself.

Origins: From the Caracciolo dukes to the 17th century

The fair has roots in the 17th century, established by the Caracciolo dukes, the lords of Martina Franca. Originally lasting eight days, it remained the only solemn celebration dedicated to the patron saint until the mid-18th century. Over the centuries, the event has maintained its character as a major mercantile and popular fair, becoming an identity-defining appointment that still draws visitors from across the Itria Valley and the province of Taranto.

The livestock market in the Ortolini area

The ancient heart of the event is the livestock market, traditionally held in the Ortolini area on the outskirts of the center. Here, one can admire and purchase Murgia horses and donkeys, as well as poultry, alongside a world of equestrian gear: the uarnamentére (tack merchants) display whips, bells, saddles, and the typical scruiàlere. It is one of the few fairs in Puglia that keeps this ancient agricultural and pastoral dimension alive.

The flavors of Saint Martin

The Saint Martin Fair is also a grand celebration of autumn flavors. Local butcher shops prepare traditional meat broth and the essential mixed roast: capocollo, bombette, sausage, and porchetta. Among the stalls on Corso Messapia, Viale Carella, and Piazza Filippo d'Angiò, you will find local products and gastronomic specialties, from salted capers to honey, and spicy sausage to Podolico caciocavallo cheese. The air is filled with the aromas of tripe, roasted chestnuts, and new wine, the undisputed stars of the day.

A tradition that renews the city

Organized by the Municipality of Martina Franca (Province of Taranto, Puglia), the Saint Martin Fair remains one of the most cherished events in the city's calendar. Beyond its commercial and culinary appeal, November 11th retains its religious significance linked to the cult of Saint Martin, the city's patron saint. For visitors, it is the perfect opportunity to discover the authentic popular spirit of the Itria Valley, blending craftsmanship, rural traditions, and the genuine flavors of the Apulian autumn.