Guiglia Borlengo Festival 2026

The Guiglia Borlengo Festival is one of the most authentic culinary events in the Modena Apennines, a celebration of a simple yet historically rich dish that symbolises Guiglia’s local identity. Scheduled for 23–24 and 30–31 May, the festival attracts numerous visitors every year who are keen to discover and savour one of the region’s most distinctive specialities.

Established on 2 April 1967 on the initiative of the Pro Loco, the festival aims to highlight and promote borlengo, a traditional peasant dish that has been part of the daily life of families in the Apennines for centuries. In days gone by, people would gather round the large copper pan, chatting and sipping local wine, waiting for this thin, fragrant golden disc to be ready: a custom that is still brought to life during the festival today.

The star of the show is, of course, the borlengo, prepared according to the traditional recipe using simple ingredients – water, flour, eggs and salt – and cooked in the typical ‘ruola’ or ‘sole’ until it becomes a very thin, crispy sheet. Once ready, it is topped with the traditional cunza, a fragrant pesto made from lard, pancetta, garlic and rosemary, finished with a generous sprinkling of Parmigiano Reggiano. Served hot and folded into quarters, it offers a unique taste experience that encapsulates centuries of tradition.

During the festival, visitors can watch the borlengai—true masters of this craft—at work as they skilfully and patiently create the perfect borlengo, passing down ancient techniques and gestures. There is no shortage of food stalls, convivial moments and opportunities to sample local specialities, all in a festive and welcoming atmosphere.

Guiglia’s Borlengo is also recognised with the ‘Tradizione e sapori di Modena’ (Tradition and Flavours of Modena) label, a testament to its cultural and gastronomic value. Its origins, which according to tradition date back as far as 1266, are at the heart of tales and legends shared throughout the region, making this dish all the more fascinating.

Taking part in the Sagra del Borlengo means immersing yourself in a collective ritual of flavours, history and conviviality, where every bite tells the story of the deep bond between the community and the local area.