Among the rolling hills that embrace the provinces of Reggio Emilia, Modena and Parma, there are several towns that have made truffles a product of excellence recognised far beyond the region’s borders. These municipalities are part of the National Association of Truffle Cities, which has succeeded in synthesising and harmonising three vocations: truffle production, marketing and tourism promotion, creating synergy in the development of the territory and consolidating a relationship of quality with the consumer.
Let’s discover together the Truffle Cities in the provinces of Reggio Emilia, Modena and Parma.
REGGIO EMILIA
Viano
Located just over 10 kilometres from our farmhouse, Viano is a small town in the Reggio Emilia Apennines, not far from the provincial capital of Reggio Emilia. Its territory, called Querciolese due to the abundant presence of oak trees in the area, is marked by the Via dei Vulcani di Fango (Mud Volcano Route), which connects towns in the Reggio Emilia and Modena areas through the geological phenomenon of mud volcanoes, also known as “Salse”. Here, in autumn and winter, white and black truffles dominate, while in summer, summer truffles or scorzone are abundant. Viano also hosts an unmissable truffle fair, held on the second weekend of November, during which the town comes alive with exhibitions, tasting workshops, shows, truffle-themed street food and traditional food. As for things to see, the Castle of Viano, of uncertain origin but dating back to after the year 1000, is definitely worth a visit.
MODENA
Montefiorino
Nestled in the green Apennines, about 45 kilometres from our farmhouse, Montefiorino is a place where time has been transformed into a story of courage, resilience, nature and breathtaking views. Its territory is characterised by the presence of ophiolites, incredible volcanic rocks that formed in an underwater environment millions of years ago. Montefiorino is one of the four municipalities where the Valli Dolo e Dragone truffle is produced. The truffle species found here are: prized white, autumn scorzone and smooth black between October and December; bianchetto or marzuolo between January and April; and the less prized black summer truffle between June and July. In addition, every year, between October and November, it hosts the Modena Truffle Market Exhibition, which features not only truffles but also all the local products of the Dolo and Dragone valleys. Among the things to see are the Romanesque parish church of Rubbiano and the Rocca (which houses the Museum of the Republic of Montefiorino and the Italian Resistance).
PARMA
Calestano
Nestled in the green woods of Val Baganza, 60 kilometres from our farmhouse, Calestano is a small town renowned for its black truffles and historic stone buildings dating back to the 15th-18th centuries. The mountains surrounding the town are rich in woods that produce the prized Tartufo Nero di Fragno, a variety of tuber uncinatum (harvested in autumn) that takes its name from the hamlet of the same name. This local delicacy is celebrated with a fair, which runs from mid-October to mid-November, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the authentic flavours of the Food Valley through an experience that combines culture, food and wine, and tradition. There is also a museum, housed in the historic premises of the Town Hall. In addition to the Fragno Truffle Museum, other places worth visiting include the Church of San Lorenzo, with its neoclassical, neo-Renaissance and modernist forms, and the Church of San Pietro Apostolo, which combines Baroque and neoclassical architectural features.
AGRITURISMO IL BRUGNOLO
Welcome to il Brugnolo
If you’re looking for completely independent apartments surrounded by greenery you really are in the right place here!
In fact, Brugnolo is immersed in the green nature of the Emilian countryside. For your relaxation, for that of your children, and again for the runs of your 4-legged friends, you will have 6000 square meters of park at your disposal!
