Italy is phenomenal in autumn. As the leaves turn golden and crimson and the air crisps up, the country transforms from a hot weather paradise to a haven for foliage, leisurely explorations and cosy mid-season foods. Among the latter comes a timeless Italian treasure: the fig. In the land of pizza, pasta, and gelato, these delectable fruits emerge in fact as the classic fall treat, offering a burst of sweetness and cultural significance that is woven into the culinary fabric of the nation. 

In the Bel Paese, figs are a quintessential symbol of the transition to chillier days, representing the bountiful harvest that sustains families through the colder months. September and October are the perfect time to reap this little sweet gem, as the cooler days coax fig trees into heavy bearings.