Cisternino: Summer cultural season 2026

The Valle d'Itria town presents a widespread summer program for 2026, activating historic palaces, squares and hamlets. The plan aims to make Cisternino an open laboratory of arts, memory and traditions, from contemporary theatre to popular music and photography.

Venues and exhibitions

• Palazzo Lagravinese – permanent exhibition dedicated to Lisetta Carmi.
• Clock Tower – from July 12 the first public display of the Irina Hale Archive, featuring unpublished materials and sketches.
• Reliquiae – collective exhibition of Ukrainian art at the Old Cemetery, May 30 – September 30, showcasing works by fifteen artists.
• Temporary shows at the Civic Tower focusing on landscape, contemporary art and photography, with immersive installations and dry-stone paths.

Events and festivals

• July 1 – Sherocco Festival: national preview at Teatro Paolo Grassi of «L'angelo del focolare» (Emma Dante).
• July 3–5 – Borgo DiVino: wine excellence and jazz throughout the historic center.
• August 3 – A stage of La Notte della Taranta, celebrating Salento and Mediterranean folk music.
• July 12 – "Oscar del Libro" and author talks; literary programming and the Festival of Civil Literature.
• July 16–19 – International Band Festival.
• July 24–26 – Borgo Cantato: traditional songs and the sound memory of the Valle d'Itria.
• August 1–3 – Patronal celebrations for Saints Quirico and Giulitta.
• August 2–9 – Reopening of Giannettino garden with the "Apporto Collettivo" project (photography, cinema, theatre and environmental meetings).
• August 21–22 – Sottovilla reopens hosting the first "Cisternino Beerfest".
• Late August – Grape Festival and local food events in the hamlets (Figazzano, Casalini, Caranna).
• September 8 – Symbolic closing with the historic Fiera della Bomminella and Pro Loco events.

Additional notes

• Open-air cinema and regular theatre programming at Teatro Paolo Grassi in July and August.
• Events that highlight agricultural traditions, local products and community markets.
• Sporting events such as the Trofeo Borghi d'Italia (archery) and Trofeo Maria SS. della Stella (cycling race).

The 2026 season aims to enhance the historic fabric and local identities, turning every square, alley and hamlet into an active stage for artistic exchange and community participation.