Marradi Chestnuts: An Autumn Treasure in Upper Tuscany

Introduction
In the enchanting landscape of Upper Tuscany, the small village of Marradi stands out for an autumn delicacy that attracts visitors from everywhere: chestnuts. These delicious chestnuts, known as "Marroni di Marradi", are a symbol of the culinary and cultural tradition of the region. In this blog, we will explore everything that makes Marradi chestnuts special, from their history to local traditions, up to the delicious recipes that feature them.

A bit of history
Marradi chestnuts boast a long history that dates back centuries. Since the Middle Ages, these chestnuts have been a fundamental source of nourishment for local populations. The particular variety of chestnuts grown here is appreciated for its sweetness and firm, tasty pulp, characteristics that make it ideal for numerous culinary preparations.

The Chestnut Festival
Every October, Marradi celebrates the "Chestnut Festival", an event that attracts thousands of visitors eager to taste and purchase the delicious chestnuts. The festival offers a variety of chestnut-based products, such as roasted chestnuts, jams, sweets and liqueurs. The streets of the village come alive with stalls, music and shows, creating a festive and welcoming atmosphere.

Harvesting and Preparation
The chestnut harvest in Marradi is an activity that involves the whole community. The harvest takes place manually, selecting only the best fruits. Once harvested, the chestnuts are dried in traditional "metati", small stone buildings where the chestnuts are arranged on racks and left to dry for several weeks, fueled by soft wood fires.