Sapori e Saperi del Velino

Sapori e Saperi del Velino: The Gastronomic Soul of the Velino

Sapori e Saperi del Velino is an annual food and cultural festival held in late September in the ancient village of Rosciolo dei Marsi, part of the municipality of Magliano de' Marsi in the province of L'Aquila. Nestled at the foot of the Velino massif, the village's stone alleys and squares come alive for two days dedicated to local specialties, culture, and the rediscovery of Marsican traditions.

A Village Opens Its Doors

Organized by Pro Loco Rosciolo with the support of the Municipality of Magliano de' Marsi, the event transforms the village into a journey of taste and discovery. Stalls line the streets, offering demonstrations of traditional food preparation, displays of local truffles and honey, and a "zero-kilometer" market featuring the finest agro-food products of the Marsica region. Abruzzo wineries present their labels, served by expert sommeliers paired with traditional dishes.

The Flavors of Marsica

The table at Sapori e Saperi del Velino tells the story of the peasant cuisine of the Abruzzo Apennines. Specialties served at the stalls include:

• the quintessential arrosticini (sheep skewers);
• sagne stracciate and pasta alla pecorara;
• dishes featuring local truffles, such as gnocchi and truffle-infused eggs;
• local sausages, cheeses, and artisanal baked goods;
• a selection of wines from the Marsica and Abruzzo regions.

More Than Just Food: The "Saperi" (Knowledge)

Beyond the flavors, the festival places great importance on "saperi"—knowledge. Conferences and meetings with scholars and experts explore themes of territorial sustainability, nutrition, archaeology, tourism, and biodiversity. A traditional highlight takes place in the evocative church of Santa Maria in Valle Porclaneta, a jewel of Abruzzo Romanesque art. This event, a staple of every edition, is dedicated to the Benedictine soul of the region, its history, and its spirituality.

A Quality Event

The value of the festival has been recognized on a national level: in March 2026, Pro Loco Rosciolo received the UNPLI quality mark for Sapori e Saperi del Velino, with an award ceremony held in the Senate of the Republic in Rome. This certification honors the excellence of the organization and its commitment to promoting the territory, its traditions, and its community.

In the Heart of Marsica

Immersed in the landscape of the Sirente-Velino Regional Natural Park, the village of Rosciolo dei Marsi offers visitors more than just a food festival; it is an opportunity to discover a fascinating historical and natural heritage, ranging from medieval churches and mountain vistas to the authentic charm of a small Abruzzo inland town.