Torrita Carnival

The Torrita Carnival: a tradition reborn

The Torrita Carnival is the signature carnival celebration of Torrita di Siena, a village in the Valdichiana, in the Province of Siena, in the heart of Tuscany. After disappearing for nearly thirty years, the carnival was revived in 2023 thanks to the commitment of the local Pro Loco, the Misericordia Confraternity, the parish community, and the Filarmonica La Samba band, alongside numerous volunteers. It has since returned to enliven the streets and squares of the historic center every February.

King Gotto, the iconic character

At the heart of the event is the re-enactment of King Gotto, an ancient character of the Torrita Carnival who gives the festival its unique local identity. Celebrations, lighthearted moments, and a tribute to a tradition cherished by the town's older generations revolve around this figure. The revival of the carnival was also accompanied by a photographic exhibition dedicated to the historic editions of the seventies, eighties, and nineties, testifying to how deeply rooted this festival was in the community.

What to expect

The carnival day in Torrita di Siena takes place in the historic center and is designed as a village festival open to everyone. Typical activities include:

• Masquerade parade through the village streets, with confetti and streamers;
• Entertainment provided by the Filarmonica La Samba, which accompanies the festivities with music;
• Activities dedicated to children, such as face painting;
• The convivial atmosphere typical of Tuscan popular festivals, focused on community participation.

A carnival for the community

Unlike the large-scale Tuscan carnivals, the Torrita version maintains an intimate and authentic dimension: it is a festival made by the town for the town, where residents and local associations take part in the parade. Admission is free, and the event offers a simple, genuine opportunity to discover Torrita di Siena during the winter season, away from the main tourist crowds. For those visiting the Valdichiana, it is also a great way to explore the local calendar of traditions, of which the carnival serves as a prelude to the famous spring Palio dei Somari.