Tree-related traditions are numerous and widespread throughout Europe. The spirit of the tree has always been seen as magical and auspicious, a bearer of good fortune and positive energy. The “albero della cuccagna” (greasy pole) is a distant relative of the ancient “maypole”, stripped of its magic and sacred meaning and turned into a playful contest where young people climb in pursuit of food prizes hung at the top.

If you’ve never seen a Cuccagna, come to Gubbio on November 11th—one of the few places in central Italy where this tradition still thrives and becomes more vibrant every year. During this celebration, the historic Piazza Giordano Bruno, in the heart of the San Martino district, turns into a stage for a competition in which teams face off in a challenge of skill and courage: climbing to the top of a smooth pole to grab a chicken and other food items hanging at the top.
With laughter and live music from the town band, good red wine, roasted chestnuts, and other local culinary traditions, it’s guaranteed fun for everyone.