Isola della Scala
Place of Interest
Isola della Scala
Rice-growing region in the south of Veneto
The Isola della Scala is often called “Città del Riso” (city of rice) because it is surrounded by large rice fields. It has been a centre of rice production in Veneto since the 17th century. The city itself is home to 10,500 inhabitants and contains little worth seeing. At the staircase to the church you can see a historic water wheel from the rice plant of the Ferron family. At the end of the town you will find the Church Santuario della Madonna della Bastia with some preserved frescoes in the interior. Near the church you can have a look at the Torre Skaliger from the 12th century, which are ringed by a moat.
Fiera del Riso – rice festival
Once a year between September and October, the Fiera del Riso takes place in Isola della Scala. This event starts immediately after the rice harvest in autumn and many culinary contests and historical exhibitions inspire visitors. The rice festival is, of course, not only an event for informing and watching but also for tasting – hundreds of thousands of different risotto recipes are served during the event. More information as well as programmes can be found at www.fieradelriso.it.
History of rice cultivation in Isola della Scala
Rice has been grown around the Isola della Scala since the 17th century. Although the major rice growing areas in Italy are located in the Po Valley, the Isola della Scala has managed to develop into an impressive rice cultivation area. Many major rice producers like Ferron, Melotti, Riccò, del Vò and Rancan have their rice mills and numerous shops and restaurants here. The Ferron family in particular, stands for successful rice cultivation tradition in the region. The family’s old rice mill, the Antica Riseria Ferron, is north of Isola della Scala on the SS12 and is still open for visits.
Tweet