Acqualagna is known as the Italian truffle capital and has an annual truffle fair.
The annual Acqualagna International White Truffle Fair
«Acqualagna is a place deeply rooted in truffles and truffle culture. Thanks also to my professional experience in the tourism sector, I closely follow the promotion of the region and its products of excellence, - says Laura Sabbatini, Acqualagna's tourism councillor. -Since last year, our event has officially become the Acqualagna International White Truffle Fair: a prestigious recognition that places us alongside Alba and Norcia, as the only Italian towns authorized to use the name of the region associated with the product.
Truffles are harvested all year round
A small town in the heart of the Marche region, in the province of Pesaro Urbino, Acqualagna is known worldwide as one of Italy's truffle capitals. Situated along the ancient Via Flaminia and just a few kilometres from the spectacular Gola del Furlo, it boasts a long tradition linked to the hunting and trade of truffles. Offering truffles all year round thanks to the presence of the main varieties: the precious white, the winter black, the summer black and the "bianchetto" or "marzuolo." In Acqualagna, you can also visit the Truffle Museum, take part in truffle hunting experiences, discover specialist businesses and enjoy nature trails in the Gola del Furlo Nature Reserve.
An experimental truffle plantation
"This year we have also launched the first experimental white truffle plantation on municipal land, a project that underscores our commitment to developing the entire supply chain. Acqualagna is a member of the National Association of Truffle Towns and we are working on joint initiatives to enhance the sector and promote the area on international markets as well.
Foreign investments in truffle production
In recent years, the truffle has seen significant growth in terms of recognition and tourist interest, becoming a product capable of generating economic value and attracting visitors. This is why, Councillor Sabbatini explained, they are encouraging the establishment of new truffle grounds and sustainable cultivation projects, which are also essential for the protection of this natural resource, which is becoming increasingly rare in the wild. Truffles are also drawing interest from abroad. "A Belgian investor recently set up a new truffle farm near Acqualagna dedicated to both white and black truffles. A concrete sign of the great international potential of this sector.”
