Mendrisio in the Swiss canton of Ticino was already populated in the times of the Celts and Romans. And the main town of the same name was first mentioned in a document in 793.
The Sagra dell`Uva del Mendrisiotto is much more recent: the Festival of the Vines first took place in 1956 and, with around 30,000 visitors, is the highlight of Ticino's festival programme.

During the three days, the monasteries and courtyards of the historic core of the municipality are transformed into small grotti, wine cellars where you can sit at the table and taste wines and local dishes in a beautiful atmosphere.
The town centre becomes a big market - with stalls of winegrowers, farmers and local artisans who offer insights into their craftsmanship in small workshops.

In the arcaded courtyard of the Servite monastery there is music, cabaret and theatre. on the Piazzale alla Valle concerts by choirs, rock bands and folk musicians.
And children have fun stomping grapes or listening to stories told by storytellers.