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Acetaia Comunale: Modena's Balsamic Heart

Discover the secrets of authentic Balsamic Vinegar of Modena at the Acetaia Comunale, a tradition preserved in the heart of the city.

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Housed in the attic of Modena's Town Hall, the Acetaia Comunale offers a glimpse into the traditional production of Balsamic Vinegar of Modena. Guided tours reveal the secrets of this prized condiment, from grape to barrel, with tastings of aged and extra-aged varieties.

A brief summary to Acetaia Comunale

  • Friday 3:30 pm-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 10:30 am-11:30 am
  • Sunday 10:30 am-11:30 am

Local tips

  • Book your guided tour in advance, as space is limited to 20 people per tour.
  • Tours are available in Italian and English; check the schedule for English tour times.
  • Note that the Acetaia Comunale is not wheelchair accessible due to stairs.
  • After the tour, consider purchasing a bottle of the Acetaia Comunale's balsamic vinegar as a unique souvenir.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Acetaia Comunale is located in Piazza Grande, the main square of Modena, making it easily accessible on foot from most points in the city center. From the Duomo di Modena, simply walk across the Piazza Grande towards the Palazzo Comunale. The entrance to the Acetaia Comunale is inside the Palazzo Comunale. Remember to book your tour in advance at the tourist information office located at Piazza Grande, 14.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus, disembark at a stop near Piazza Grande, such as Piazza Roma or Viale Vittorio Veneto. From there, walk to Piazza Grande and locate the Palazzo Comunale. The Acetaia Comunale is inside. Bus tickets within Modena typically cost around €1.50 - €2.00.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Modena. Request a ride to Piazza Grande, 14. From there, enter the Palazzo Comunale to find the Acetaia Comunale. A short taxi ride within the city center will likely cost between €8 - €12.

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Discover more about Acetaia Comunale

The Acetaia Comunale, nestled in the historic Palazzo Comunale (Town Hall) of Modena, is a unique window into the world of traditional balsamic vinegar. Here, in the heart of the city, the Comune (municipality) maintains its own acetaia (vinegar cellar), upholding the ancient traditions of crafting Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena DOP. The acetaia itself is a fascinating space, filled with the aromas of fermenting must and aging vinegar. It consists of a series of barrels, known as a batteria, each made from different woods such as oak, chestnut, cherry, and ash. These barrels, of varying sizes, contribute unique flavors and characteristics to the vinegar as it ages over a minimum of 12 years, and often much longer. Guided tours, led by expert master tasters, provide an in-depth look at the history, production, and unique qualities of traditional balsamic vinegar. Visitors will learn about the specific grape varietals used—typically Lambrusco and Trebbiano—and the meticulous process of cooking the grape must. They'll discover how the vinegar is transferred between barrels of different woods, each step influencing the final product. The tour culminates in a tasting of both aged (at least 12 years) and extra-aged (at least 25 years) balsamic vinegar, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the complex flavors and aromas that define this Modenese treasure. Visiting the Acetaia Comunale is more than just a tour; it's an immersion into the cultural heritage of Modena, a city deeply intertwined with its celebrated balsamic vinegar. It's a chance to witness a tradition passed down through generations and to savor the authentic taste of 'black gold'.

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