One of the things I look forward to doing each year (if selected) is being part of a 700 yr old medieval event that is held in the capital city (L’Aquila) of the region I live in (Abruzzo).
Each year, a certain number of dignitaries and notable people – from not only Abruzzo but all over the world are selected to take part in this event. This year was the second year I was selected to be part of the ‘sfilate’ or parade along with many notable people from ambassadors and/or their wives from Bosnia, other parts of Europe, the Vice President of Italy, 5 bishops from the Vatican and all of the mayors from every town in Abruzzo, the board of directors of the architects and engineers unions in Abruzzo, the principal judges of all of the courts in Abruzzo.
I always like to do a blog or two on this event since it is an important one and it has a lot of significance in the world today. The event was started by Pope Celestino- the Pope back in that time. The event is known as “La Perdonanza Celestiniana”. It refers to an idea this Pope came up with to try to make peace in the world, because at that time many countries were also fighting against each other. His philosophy was in order to try to make peace in the world- to forgive everyone and wash their slate clean from that day forward- no matter what they had done in the past. However, they must promise to mend their old ways and start anew and all would be forgiven. And amazingly enough, at that time this created peace in the world. A beautiful thought and a beautiful way to celebrate the idea of peace in the world. One of my favorite reasons to go to the beautiful city of L’Aquila- besides their beautiful churches, works of art, scenery and food is a special coffee drink called ‘cafe torronata’. It is an espresso served up elegantly with a chocolate candy (a specialty made in L’Aquila) placed in the bottom of the drink and allowed to melt into the coffee. A dollop of whip cream on top and prepare to be mesmerized!!. Here is my recipe for cafe torronato. However, to get the real thing, you should have a chocolate covered torrone from Fratelli Nurzia or Sorelle Nurzia. They invented these candies and are still making them in L’Aquila the same way they did over 50 yrs ago. Cafe TorronatoBrew 1 cup of espresso. Place chocolate covered torrone at bottom of martini glass. Pour in steaming hot coffee. Let stand for about 1 minute, stir gently, top with some fresh ‘panna’ or whipped cream. Dust with powdered sugar.
Mmmm!! Delizioso
Ciao for now!!
Maria
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