Bologna Celebrates Tradition: A Resounding Success for the “Mattarello d’Oro” 2026

At the Antoniano, traditional pasta makers from across Italy compete in the time-honored art of handmade pasta, blending technical skill, passion, and cultural identity.

On Sunday, February 8, 2026, the Antoniano in Bologna hosted the latest edition of the “Mattarello d’Oro” (The Golden Rolling Pin), the historic competition dedicated to the master art of hand-rolled pasta dough. The event put one of the most iconic traditions of Emilia-Romagna’s cuisine back in the spotlight, bringing together professionals, passionate food lovers, and young talents under 30 in a contest driven by technical precision and deep respect for traditional methods.

Organized by Confcommercio Ascom Bologna with the support of several local organizations, the event cements its status as a benchmark for those who safeguard and pass down the artisanal secrets of fresh pasta. Competitors went head-to-head to roll out the “perfect sheet of dough,” evaluated by an expert jury based on precision, manual dexterity, and the quality of the dough. Beyond the competition itself, the Mattarello d’Oro stood out for its immense cultural and social value: an event capable of uniting different generations through a living tradition that continues to evolve without losing its roots. Amid tight competition and fantastic public turnout, Bologna once again renewed its role as the guardian of the art of sfoglia, celebrating a heritage that extends far beyond the kitchen.