Hilltop towns of Italy

Hilltop borgo, Lazio Hilltop borgo, Lazio

Given the tragic events that took place in the Lazio and Umbria regions on August 24, with so much destruction and loss of lives suddenly upon the ancient and beautiful towns of Amatrice, Accumoli and other smaller villages nearby, I find it necessary to dedicate this month’s article to these paesi and their people. I’m hoping this generates more interest and a stronger desire amongst our readers to join in our efforts towards the relief of their sufferings.

As soon as the news arrived a few weeks ago, a group on Cleveland’s west side immediately went to work and several great initiatives are already up and running! Together with Solari Quintessentially Italian, a wonderful home décor store, and Stino da Napoli, a superb Italian restaurant (both located on Old River Rd. in Rocky River, OH) we have launched the “AMATRICE Earthquake Fund,” already filed as an entity with the Secretary of the State of Ohio, and have since opened an account with PNC so that funds can be deposited and subsequently wired to one of the Italian Banks listed by the Italian Foreign Ministry as appropriate for the collection and the disbursement of such funds.

We have been selling raffle tickets at both locations ($10 each) toward a goal of $4,000, with an initial drawing occurring soon, when several wonderful items (generously donated) can be won: two wine, food and gift certificate baskets, two Maiolica ceramic packages and two elegantly framed prints from “IMAGES” Art Gallery. Furthermore, Diana Travel Agency in Rocky River has organized an “Amatriciana Pasta” Dinner event, scheduled on Saturday, October 23 at the Lady of Mount Carmel Church Hall, 6828 Detroit Rd, Cleveland. Tickets for the event ($25 each) will soon go on sale and early reservations are encouraged (440-895-0011).

So much more is happening in our Country and around the world to help the people of Amatrice and surrounding villages in their moment of extreme need; it is so important that these efforts will continue in time, so that the innocent victims of this catastrophe will not soon be forgotten!

The imagery presented this month is just a small selection among the many beautiful paesi and borghi found throughout the Italian Peninsula; all filled with history, art and simple beauty, along with a plethora of incredible culinary treasures. And, if you admire these places, please remember that Amatrice and the other villages were as splendid and as precious!

Please consider getting involved in any local initiative toward the relief of the earthquake victims: we are happy to support any new ideas and programs in this regard.
Grazie a tutti!