The “Settembre Tiburtino” is a cultural event organized by the municipal administration every year during the autumn months, aimed at promoting and preserving the folkloric traditions of Tivoli, the Aniene Valley, and neighboring areas. The events planned throughout September and October revolve around the city’s significant spots through conferences, book presentations, study days, and seminars. Particularly popular are initiatives centered on rediscovering Tiburtine landscapes through educational and archaeological excursions, art and photography exhibitions, as well as arts and crafts displays, all geared towards enhancing and safeguarding the cultural, artistic, archaeological, and ethnographic heritage.

Among the initiatives aimed at promoting folk traditions through the programming of the “Settembre Tiburtino,” “Sagra del Pizzutello” (Festival of Pizzutello Grapes) stands out as one of most significant events for Tivoli, as laid down in the Municipal Statute.

The Pizzutello grape has been a symbol of the Tiburtine area, with its origins tracing back to the 1st century A.D. when Pliny the Elder mentioned a type of grape cultivated in Tivoli and Pompeii, seemingly referring to this variety, in his Naturalis Historia.

This high-quality product reemerged in the history and landscape of Tivoli in the 16th century when Cardinal Ippolito d’Este built his famous villa. The first-ever festival celebrating Pizzutello grapes and other prized varieties took place in Tivoli in 1845, coinciding with Pope Gregory XVI’s visit and the construction of tunnels diverting the course of the Aniene River.

Today, it serves as a moment for Tivoli to promote the “horned grape” and local agri-food products from neighboring areas. This is achieved through tasting events, grape distribution, and the sale of local and regional culinary delights, all taking place during the first weekend of September.