Woodland and Truffle Fair, Città di Castello

The first weekend in November sees the arrival of huge marquees in the ancient centre of Città di Castello. These are filled with stalls selling the highly prized truffle, a speciality of this region of Italy, Porcini mushrooms, salamis, cheeses and liqueurs and sweets.

It really is an event not to be missed. As you enter the marquee, the strong scent of the truffle is overwhelming and really gets the taste buds working. Some of the best salamis in Italy come from the tiny town of Norcia in the South East of Umbria and there are several stalls selling wild boar salami in many shapes and forms. Pecorino truffle cheese is another culinary delight that you should really taste! Pastes and sauces made with truffle and Porcini mushrooms are a great store cupboard favourite and are fabulous tossed with pasta or added to a a salad or as a topping for crostini

Each stall will let you sample the goods before you buy! Take time to wander around as many of the stalls sell similar products and you can get the best price. Dried Porcini mushrooms on sale here are some of the best you can get in the world!

So, get booking for 2008! It really is a great time of year to visit this part of Umbria!

Eurochocolate Perugia 2007

Eurochocolate is one of the most important international events hosted in Perugia, the capital of Umbria.

The historic centre is lined with stands selling chocolate made by suppliers from all over Europe including super names like Perugino and Lindt, down to individual makers of chocolate.

The Corso Vannucci down to the Carducci Gardens is packed with visitors from all over the world who come to sample the chocolate delights and take home bags full of chocolates for Christmas and the New Year!

There are many interesting events, exhibitions, competitions, cooking classes etc taking place all week. The final weekend is a real buzz with the main streets and piazzas alive with the sights, sounds and smells of delicious chocolate!