Montepiano cancels traditional wild boar festival after 46 years

For the first time in 46 years, the traditional Sagra del cinghiale (wild boar festival) in Montepiano was cancelled this August. Organizers made the decision as a precaution due to concerns regarding African swine fever.

While the disease does not transmit to humans and only affects swine, organizers feared that the presence of the virus might discourage visitors from attending, leading to significant economic losses. President Pietro Morganti noted that meat would have needed to be purchased externally as local hunting stocks were low during the recent season.

Beyond the economic impact, the cancellation has affected local social cohesion. Morganti suggested that it may take at least three years for the situation to return to normal, during which time hunters will continue to collaborate with provincial police on selective culling efforts.