L'Italo-Americano

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2023 www.italoamericano.org 16 L'Italo-Americano B o b b i o i s a charming small town located in t h e E m i l i a - Romagna region of Italy, within the province of Piacenza. Nestled in the valley o f t h e T r e b b i a R i v e r , i t i s a b o u t 4 5 k i l o m e t e r s ( 2 8 m i l e s ) s o u t h w e s t o f t h e provincial capital. The town rose at a lively crossroads of history and cultures, at the very intersection of regions like Liguria, Lombardy, and Piedmont, creating a unique mix of lands and traditions. Bobbio's history, steeped in natural and architectural splendor, is notably highlight- ed by its connection to Saint C o l u m b a n u s , t h e m o s t famous of all Irish monks, k n o w n f o r h a v i n g s p r e a d Christianity from his own island to the vast lands of cen- t r a l E u r o p e . C o l o m b a n u s established his own Abbey in Bobbio around 614 AD, and it soon became a center for cul- ture and spirituality. Indeed, its significance extends far beyond its religious roots, as it evolved into one of the most crucial cultural centers of medieval Italy. This develop- ment was marked by its col- l e c t i o n o f a r t w o r k s a n d objects, a veritable treasure trove spanning diverse eras including the Renaissance, Medieval, and Roman peri- ods. This wealth of artifacts underscores the abbey's role in the preservation and pro- motion of cultural and artistic heritage through the cen - turies. The B a s i l i c a o f S a i n t Columbanus is an integral part of this historical com- plex, which stands as a clear representation of the various a r c h i t e c t u r a l a n d a r t i s t i c influences that touched Bob- bio over time. The construc- tion of the basilica we see today began in the 15th centu- ry, upon the remnants of an earlier 10th-century church. Inside, the eye can feast on impressive artistic elements: the nave frescoes, dating back to the 16th century, capture the artistic spirit of the era with their intricate details and vibrant storytelling, while the 15th-century Gothic wooden choir further adds to its his- t o r i c a l a n d a r t i s t i c v a l u e , showcasing the craftsmanship and architectural style of the period. Certainly, we cannot forget the basilica's beautiful 1 2 t h - c e n t u r y m o s a i c , a remarkable piece that con- n e c t s t h e s t r u c t u r e t o i t s ancient past. In these elements, as well as in its very history and con- nection with Colombanus' religious community, we can see the artistic and spiritual significance of the basilica in its role as custodian of artistic and historical heritage. Bobbio is also known for the Malaspina Dal-Verme Castle, dating back to the 14th century. Though partly in ruins, it offers stunning views of the town and sur- r o u n d i n g l a n d s c a p e . T h e Cathedral of Bobbio, dedicat- ed to Santa Maria Assunta, with its 11th-century origins and 18th-century decorations, is another architectural high- light of the town. Many, however, may be more familiar with Bobbio's Old Bridge (Ponte Vecchio), a l s o k n o w n a s t h e D e v i l ' s Bridge or Hunchback Bridge, which is quite iconic and a significant landmark of the a r e a : d a t i n g b a c k t o t h e Roman age and first docu- mented in 1196, this bridge, with its eleven unequal arch- es, has become a symbol of Bobbio and is surrounded by various legends and stories. The natural beauty of Bob- bio is equally striking: the Trebbia River, which runs through town, is known for its clean, fresh waters that, while flowing gently in the country- side, often forms overhangs and waterfalls. Moreover, the valley around Bobbio is an area of geological interest and offers various sports activities like fishing, swimming, canoe- ing, and hiking for those into the outdoors. The surround- ing Apennines contribute to a mild climate even in summer, a n d t h e r e g i o n i s r i c h i n diverse wildlife and lush vege- tation. Bobbio's cuisine is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Piacenza province: the town offers a unique gastronomic experience that reflects cen- turies-old recipes and local ingredients. One of its high- lights is the maccheroni alla Bobbiese, featuring maccheroni crafted using a tool typically associated with crochet, which imparts to the pasta a distinctive texture. The maccheroni are then lov- ingly coated in a rich, savory t o m a t o s a u c e , a p e r f e c t embodiment of Italy's home- style cooking. Another local specialty is malfatti, small gnocchi-like dumplings with a heartwarm- ing filling of ricotta cheese a n d c h a r d . T h e s e l i t t l e morsels are baked to perfec- t i o n , o f f e r i n g a d e l i g h t f u l blend of flavors and textures. For meat lovers, agnello alla Bobbiese (Bobbio-style lamb) is a must-try. This dish consists of tender lamb ribs, slowly cooked in a flavorful broth seasoned with garlic, salt, and parsley. The lamb is often accompanied by classic side dishes like stuffed zucchi- ni and cabbage. But no culinary journey in Bobbio would be complete without tasting canestrelli, traditional sweet treats widely popular in the Piacenza area. Their delicate texture and sweet flavor make them the perfect ending to a sumptuous meal. T h e F e a s t o f t h e I m m a c u l a t e Conception on D e c e m b e r 8 t h h o l d s a s p e c i a l place in Italy's cultural and religious calendar because it marks the beginning of the Christmas season. On this day, the Catholics celebrate the belief that the Virgin Mary was conceived without original sin. In Italy, h o w e v e r , i t s s i g n i f i c a n c e extends beyond religion, as its celebration merges with various local traditions and customs across the country. Indeed, the 8th of Decem- ber is a time for family gath- erings and the initiation of Christmas festivities, because this is when, traditionally, Italian families start deco- rating their homes for Christmas, including set- ting up the Christmas tree a n d t h e c r i b . T h e c u s t o m b e g a n i n 1 8 5 4 w h e n P o p e P i u s I X p r o c l a i m e d t h e dogma of the Immaculate C o n c e p t i o n a s a r e l i g i o u s p r i n c i p l e , a n d t h e 8 t h o f December became a holiday. Of course, we all know what that means: no school, no work, and plenty of time to decorate. Yes, this is it. There is no secret reason behind t h e t r a d i t i o n o f o f f i c i a l l y t u r n i n g o n t h e C h r i s t m a s spirit on the 8th of Decem- ber, it's just... practical. But the day is special for many other reasons, includ- ing various regional culinary traditions and practices. For i n s t a n c e , i n B a s i l i c a t a , specifically in Matera, fami- lies prepare a special kind of taralli known as tarallo del- l'Immacolata or ficcilatidd. This biscuit-shaped taralli with fennel seeds is a signifi- cant part of the ritual meal for the day. In Puglia, the c e l e b r a t i o n i n c l u d e s t h e lighting of a huge bonfire, one of the region's oldest tra- ditions, and the preparation of local delicacies like pettole, a type of fried cake. In Cam- p a n i a , p a r t i c u l a r l y i n N a p l e s , t h e F e a s t o f t h e Immaculate Conception is intertwined with faith and art: the day is celebrated with homage to the Virgin Mary, vibrant street decorations, and the enjoyment of tradi- tional sweets like roccocò, a cookie filled with almonds and spices. The Feast of the Immacu- late Conception is a bit of a r e m i n d e r o f t h e p r o f o u n d role that tradition plays in Italian society. It also marks t h e j o y f u l a n t i c i p a t i o n o f Christmas and the coming together of families and com- munities for what many con- sider the most beautiful time of the year. The Column of the Immaculate Conception in Rome (Photo: Sean Pavone/ Dreamstime) A view of Bobbio and the Ponte Vecchio (Photo: Freesurf69/Dreamstime) L ' I m m a c o l a t a : t h e d a y I t a l y begins celebrating Christmas Bobbio, the Irish heart of Northern Italy LA VITA ITALIANA TRADITIONS HISTORY CULTURE

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