Ticino: History & Tradition
Prior to Ticino’s accession to the Swiss Confederation in 1803, the Canton had been subject to numerous invasions. Its strategical located on the main highway from northern to southern Europe made it especially attractive to powerful adversaries.
The Canton takes its name from the River Ticino, a tributary of the Po, which crosses northern Italy. It is the only Swiss canton having Italian as its only official language.
Tradition – Carnival
Generally linked to the Christian festival of Shrove Tuesday, carnivals are relatively widespread celebrations in Europe. They are a special feature of life in Ticino, with masked parades and traditional "Guggenmusik." The best-known carnivals are the Rabadan in Bellinzona and the Nebiopoli in Chiasso.
Culinary tradition
Polenta
Polenta is a traditional dish in Ticino. For centuries, it was the staple diet of much of the Canton's population. Prepared from semolina or maize flour, it is served with Ticino specialities such as Alpine cheeses, Mortadella, braised meat or ragù. But the polenta is also delicious with a dash of fresh milk, for the authentic taste of tradition.
Print recipe (in French - 47KB)
Traditional products
- Chestnuts
- Grappa
- Honey
- Merlot
