Spinete

On August 1, every year, the little town of Spinete in Molise celebrates a replay of the old medieval routine of asking the Lord of the place to give in on some privileges and rules for the town. The year is actually 1523, and the town people, especially those who had specific jobs and made money to pay the taxes to the lord, gathered around the mayor of the town to ask for permission to live in better conditions.

The lord, il camerlengo, who lived there with his noble family, initially would complain about all the privileges that the common people were asking and then give in to some of the requests. The whole deal would probably take a few months, but the celebration on August 1 takes place in one afternoon, as the whole town relives the facts, and everyone contributes in their own ways. It was amazing to see how little ones, older folks, really talented drummers and everyone was involved in this lovely tradition, down to the roasted pig, some cold beer and a nice parody to the whole deal.
They spoke a bit in Latin and the old town dialect, took spectators from one corner to the other of the town and had everyone taking pictures and videos like it was never going to end. I gathered some pics in the slide show. If you look at them imagine there is no sign of progress around. The faces are priceless.

Marco learned the shape and value of the old town currency, the Carlino, which he thought could be put to good use for a bit of time in the company of the lady of the square who seemed readily available (you can check the pic with the kids sitting happily together on the bench). He thought should could keep him company for 15 minutes for the cost of one Carlino... Not sure yet what they would do wit the time, but since Marco has learned his Italian quite nicely by now, I am sure he would find something to tell her.

This was the highlight of last afternoon, as we took our hosts to a place and an event they were not even aware of.  Sometimes it takes a Canadian to convince a local to learn a bit about their own history! I hope the video will also be nice to view. BTW: we have now reached more than 400 pictures in the slide show. There is a bit for everyone to enjoy. Some have family faces that will mean most to friends and family - others contain views and sites of this great holiday experience.