Sagra del Tordo, also known as the Thrush Festival or Feast of the Thrush, is the most important event of the year in the city of Montalcino, province of Siena. The medieval festivities have been held here since 1958, on the last weekend of October, with the whole town participating in the preparation of an array of exciting activities. Historical re-enactments, archery contests, and falconry displays are just a few of them. Visitors can also indulge in medieval feasts and famous Brunello di Mon talcino wine.
Sagra del Tordo Parade in Montalcino
This weekend-long event usually starts on Saturday with folk performances on the streets of the city. Many Montalcino residents get dressed in 14th-century style clothing to parade the streets, while dancers and singers call the townsfolk to come and participate. The historical parade starts from the Piazza Cavour and through the lavishly decorated four Quarters of the city (Borghetto, Pianello, Ruga, Travaglio), towards the Piazza del Popolo accompanied by drums and clarions.
Montalcino has been known for the seasonal growth of the thrush bird population, as it lies on bird migration routes. Sagra del Tordo officially begins at the square near the Town Hall, and a flock of thrushes is freed to symbolize its start. The procession then continues on to Piazza Garibaldi. The parade normally takes place on Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning.
Archery Competition
The city had a falconry and hunting tradition since the Middle Ages when it was the favorite sport for noblemen. Every year, during Sagra del Tordo, each of the four districts of Montalcino sends two delegates dressed in their historical colours to challenge each other in an archery contest. During the competition, one archer from each district attempts to shoot the wild boar target, with five arrows. Archers have a chance to win the contest during several rounds. The district with the most winning points receives a silver arrow, a signature prize of the festival.
Italian Food & Wine
While the main focus of the event is on the celebration of the Tuscany heritage and Montalcino's traditions, Sagra del Tordo is known as a prime destination for Italian cuisine. After the competition and the parade, everybody has a chance to try Maremma’s fall specialties—pappardelle, pinci pasta, quail roast, polenta, tripe—and taste Montalcino wines. Grilled meat and bean soup are other delicacies you can try during the festival run.
History of Sagra del Tordo
The festival serves as a celebration of hunting traditions from the Middle Ages. It's also a reminder of a fascinating time in Montalcino's history when the thrush bird population was high to the point of merchants selling the bird to Romans. The first official Sagra del Tordo festival was held in 1958.
