MARU: The gastronomic identity of chili pepper in the historic center of Ruffano

The tradition of spiciness in Salento

On September 5th and 6th, 2026, the ancient village of Ruffano becomes the stage for MARU – The Chili Pepper Festival. The event serves as a privileged vantage point on agricultural biodiversity and Salento's gastronomic culture, focusing on the chili pepper, a distinctive element of local culinary habits. The festival transforms the urban fabric into a sensory journey that combines botanical knowledge with popular entertainment.

An itinerary between architecture and botany

The historic center of Ruffano, characterized by a medieval layout winding through narrow courtyards and noble palaces, hosts a vast exhibition of chili varieties from all over the globe for the occasion. The setup allows visitors to deepen their knowledge of different species, exploring the connections between the organoleptic properties of the plant and its conscious use in cooking. The architecture of the village, usually silent, welcomes food stands that reinterpret local hospitality through recipes based on the skillful use of the spice.

Experiences and competitions

The program is structured through educational workshops and guided tastings aimed at educating the palate to different levels of spiciness. The dynamic core of the festival is represented by the spiciness endurance contest, a moment of challenge that attracts a diverse audience and defines the playful character of the event. To complete the cultural offering, guided tours are scheduled, allowing visitors to discover the artistic and architectural heritage of Ruffano, enabling a complete enjoyment of the territory in a context of collective sharing.

Logistical information

The event takes place entirely in the spaces of the historic center of Ruffano. For access to tastings, workshop sessions, and active participation in the contests, it is recommended to consult the official portal of the event. Guided tours of the historical heritage are subject to advance booking to ensure proper flow management in the village courtyards. For further operational details, program changes, or real-time updates, please refer to the dedicated website.