Tradition

The Municipality of Cortino has a total of 20 hamlets, each rich in traditions that have been handed down over the centuries. Many of these ancient uses have been lost due to the progressive depopulation of these communities, but some have been preserved thanks to the activity of the numerous local Associations and ProLoco. The inhabitants of the Municipality of Cortino, due to the characteristics of the territory, have always dedicated themselves mainly to sheep farming and forestry.

The hamlets further down the valley were also involved in agriculture.

Among the most important traditions is the celebration of the "Festa della Pastorizia" (Shepherding Festival) which, traditionally held on the Piano Roseto plateau (near Rocca Roseto) in the month of September (now moved to July), marks the beginning of the journey of the flocks along the sheep track towards Puglia. Currently, the event is held in the same place, in the first week of July, before the transhumance to the high mountains. During the festival, typical local products are presented and farmers display various breeds of sheep.

The other events that take place in the area are linked to the various popular traditions of each hamlet and to the festivals in honor of the Patron Saint of each and are:

• The Living Nativity Act in Casanova;
• The Procession from Faieto to the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Sgrima;
• The Night of the Brigands in Padula;
• The Cultural Festival of the Rural Villages of Laga;
• The May 1st celebration with the Virtues in Casanova;
• The Scrippella Festival in Faieto;
• The Polenta del Brigante in Pagliaroli;

In addition to all the patron saint festivals in the various hamlets.