Barga, a medieval town in Tuscany, Italy, is widely known as 'the most Scottish town in Italy' due to its deep historical and cultural ties with Scotland. Located at the foot of the Apuan Alps in the province of Lucca, Barga is one of 'I Borghi più belli d'Italia' (the most beautiful villages of Italy). According to Visit Italy, as much as 60 per cent of the town's population today have Scottish roots, a legacy of late 19th-century emigration from Barga to Scotland and subsequent Scottish migration to the town.
Fish and Chips Festival and Scottish Traditions
One of Barga's most famous traditions is the Sagra del Pesce e Patate, or Fish and Chips Festival, held every summer. During the two-week event, the town's historic streets are filled with the scent of fresh battered fish and chips. Makeshift tables line the cobbled lanes, where locals and tourists enjoy generous portions of fish and chips, often paired with local Chianti red wine.
Barga also has its own white, red, and green tartan, displayed in restaurants and shops. The town is twinned with Prestonpans and Longniddry in East Lothian, and the local football team's kit is inspired by Celtic Football Club. Other Scottish traditions include bagpipe playing, traditional Highland dancing, markets selling Scottish souvenirs, and even full Scottish breakfasts. A Burns Night event on January 25 features poetry readings, haggis, whisky, and toasts to Robert Burns.
Famous Figures and Paolo Nutini's Connection
Several notable figures have ties to both Scotland and Barga, including Scottish-born Italian rugby player George Biagi, filmmaker Gualtiero Jacopetti, and football manager Francesco Farioli. The most famous is singer-songwriter Paolo Nutini, whose father Alfredo hails from Barga. In 2007, Nutini was awarded The Golden St Christopher medal, the town's highest honor, for his contributions to Barga and its residents.
Speaking to the Daily Record, Nutini described Barga as his 'favourite place to visit,' adding: 'I've been coming here just about every year since I was a baby and it's the most amazing place in the world. We always have a great time here and it always feels like coming home.'
