Norcia celebrates truffles: the 62nd edition of Nero Norcia is back
When it comes to Umbrian specialities, the black truffle of Norcia immediately springs to mind. And it is precisely this truffle that will take centre stage at the 62nd edition of Nero Norcia, the historic National Fair of the Fine Black Truffle and Local Specialities, scheduled to take place over two weekends: 20–22 February and 27 February–1 March.
An annual event that draws food lovers, gourmets and curious visitors to the heart of the Valnerina, transforming the historic centre into a vast culinary journey.
The highlight of the event: the prized black truffle
The market exhibition will stretch from Porta Romana to Porta Ascolana, featuring stalls, tastings and local specialities. It will be the perfect opportunity to purchase fresh, prized black truffles, cured meats from Norcia, cheeses, mountain pulses and many other Umbrian delicacies.
All this in a special setting: the historic centre of Norcia, which has finally regained one of its most important landmarks, the Basilica of San Benedetto, reopened following reconstruction work.
The official opening will take place on Friday 20 February at 4.30 pm at Porta Romana, in the presence of local officials and the Vice-President of the European Parliament, Antonella Sberna.
The Taste Workshop: top chefs and live cooking demonstrations
The big news for this year’s event is the Laboratorio del Gusto in Piazza Vittorio Veneto, a space dedicated to cooking demonstrations and tastings.
Among the key figures:
- Giancarlo Polito (Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand)
- Fabio Cappiello (Michelin red and green stars)
- Michele Raspanti, “Il Pastarolo”
- Giulio Gigli
- Andrea Impero
- Luca Antonucci
An unmissable opportunity to see the black truffle interpreted in a creative and contemporary way, whilst maintaining its link with Umbrian tradition.
During the second weekend, the Sardinian town of Berchidda will also be a guest, offering tastings of traditional soup and ravioli: an interesting gastronomic dialogue between Umbria and Sardinia.
Tradition, music and culture
Nero Norcia is not just about food. On the programme:
- Performances by artists from the Ferrara Buskers Festival
- A demonstration of “Il Norcino”, the ancient art of pork butchery
- Concerts and shows at Spazio Digipass
- Events dedicated to truffles, reconstruction and local development
The Ilario Castagner Award has also been confirmed; this year it will be presented to former footballer Bruno Giordano.
An experience to savour (and share in the kitchen)
For lovers of Umbrian cuisine, Nero Norcia is much more than just a trade fair: it is a journey through the intense aromas of truffles, the authentic flavours of cured meats and the culinary culture of a unique region.
If you’re planning a visit, the advice is simple: let the scent of truffles guide you, taste the produce, compare the producers and take a piece of Umbria home with you… perhaps to turn it into a new recipe to try.
