The Bagnaria Cherry is a real treasure of nature that does honour to the charming village located in the Staffora Valley, towards the Alto Oltrepò. This delicious fruit has become a symbol of local excellence, so much so that it is part of the prestigious circuit of the National Association of 'Cherry Towns'.
The Cherry Festival
For over forty years, on the second or third Sunday in June, Bagnaria has turned into a true paradise for cherry lovers. During the famous festival dedicated to this fruit, the local producers proudly present their delicacies, offering the public a variety of sought-after and tasty cherries: from the traditional durone to the specialities known as Canada, Vignola, Spain and Napolèon. The date of the festival is confirmed every year because it takes into account the ripeness reached by the cherries.
A fruit with a glorious past
Cherries are an ancient fruit, already known and appreciated by the Romans. Valiant legionnaires are said to have eaten this popular and passionately cultivated fruit since ancient times. During the Middle Ages, cherry cultivation in Italy was encouraged and continued to the present day, offering a breathtaking spectacle during blossoming.
From tree to table
There are two species of trees: the Prunus avium, known as the sweet cherry tree, and the Prunus cerasus, known as the sour cherry tree. The former gives rise to a number of varieties that can be divided into two broad categories: tenerinas and duracinas. The former are characterised by their tender and juicy flesh, while the duracine, or duroni, are distinguished by their more generous size and firm flesh.
The Golden Cherry: an award for excellence and dedication
The Bagnaria cherry is so appreciated and well-known that since 2007 the 'Golden Cherry' award has been established, a special prize that is awarded to a personality who has particularly distinguished themselves in their field and who has contributed to promoting the culture and importance of cherries. The award is presented on the day of the festival at the official opening. In the first edition, the prize was awarded in memory of Don Dario Sforzini, the creator of this extraordinary festival celebrating Bagnaria's symbolic fruit.
Beyond the festival
The Bagnaria cherry is much more than just a fruit. It represents the identity and soul of this community, which has dedicated years of commitment and passion to its cultivation. Every cherry tasted is an explosion of emotions for the palate.
During the festival, the stands of local producers are a riot of cherry varieties, freshness and irresistible aromas. In addition to the possibility of tasting high-quality cherries, the festival is also an opportunity to get to know the typical products of the valley and to taste cherry delicacies.
Every year, the event attracts visitors from all corners who immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere created around the cherry.
The Fruit of Paradise
In ancient literature, the cherry was celebrated as the 'Fruit of Paradise', evoking a symbol of pleasure and sensory enjoyment, but also of joy and abundance.
The Versailles glasshouse of Louis XIV
The European nobility certainly could not resist the allure of this sweet fruit. The Sun King, Louis XIV of France, even had a hothouse built at Versailles dedicated to the cultivation of cherries. This allowed him to enjoy them at any time of the year.
