The 17 edition of the popular Ancient Fruits Fair at Paderna Castle (Piacenza, Reggio Emilia) will take place on the 6-7 October. The Fair is a show piece of biodiversity, specializing in fruits, vegetables and flowers that were once quite common in the past but which have gradually been supplanted by mass produced cultivations.

Among the promoters of the Fair is the Italian Environmental Foundation (FAI), one of Italys most important heritage conservation organizations. The Fair is also part of the Emilia Romagna regional Wine Food Festival.

The park of the Castle of Paderna will be given over to the growers of antique flowers and herbs, while organic farmers, crafts and gardening products are to be found in the courtyard, During the Fair, the FAI will be collecting funds to finance the recovery of St. Francis Wood at Assisi, recently acquired by the Association. Organizers also advise visitors to take the opportunity to visit the parks and gardens of the area of the 22 Castles of the Dukedom of Parma and Piacenza, with some of the loveliest gardens in northern Italy.  

For information: Paterna Castle Tel. (0039)0523/511645  www.fruttiantichi.net