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Il Polentone di Retorbido

The beautiful spring festival dedicated to the wise farmer Bertoldo

In the municipality of Retorbido in Oltrepò Pavese, the second Sunday of March is an unmissable event for thousands of people. The town celebrates the Polenta and Salamini Festival, honoring its legendary protagonist, Bertoldo. According to local folklore, Bertoldo was born in Retorbido, not Bertagnana, as others claim. The festival features a lively market, music, and a parade with nobles, peasants, and revelers. As tradition goes, the event ends with the sharing of polenta and salamini. The celebration reached its 100th edition in 2018.


Photo by Trait d'Union  e associazione Camperisti di Retorbido


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