Stessa realtà, tempi diversi…
In our video we want to face the problem of the loss of cultural heritage due to the abandonment of internal areas, a recurring problem in our town and in many others. We decided to divide the video into two different sections: in the first part we focused on those now uninhabited places and, with the aim of emphasizing the state of abandonment of these places, we showed them in black and white. In the second part of the video, however, we decided to enhance what our small town offers us today and we mentioned some traditions that still take place today and give life to the town. During the progress of the video it’s possible to hear the voice of a young girl who plays the role of an elderly lady who draws her memories on a sheet of paper, which subsequently come to life. It’s possible to observe an alley full of children playing happily and carefree, that disappear slowly and symbolically. This represents the change that has occurred over the years, which has seen the country halve its resident population. Almost all previously inhabited neighborhoods, houses and buildings remained empty. All this not only due to the demographic decline, but also due to the many traditions and habits that are now almost lost. Why do we say almost? Because we have just as many events that fortunately remained, which in those few moments of the year repopulate the town, giving it for a short time that life that previously distinguished it. Among these we have the 'Ndocciata, the most evocative and impressive Italian event linked to fire. The 'Ndocciata is a ritual that has its roots in ancient times. Tradition says that it was born as a celebration of the winter solstice, a way to welcome and celebrate the light during the long dark nights. Over the centuries, the ritual has taken on a deeper meaning, becoming a symbol of community, faith and solidarity. The magic of the event begins at nightfall, when the streets of Agnone come alive with life. The 'Ndocciata procession is led by a master of ceremonies who leads the long line of torch bearers through the streets. The crackling flame of the torches dances in the darkness, creating a mystical and engaging atmosphere. The 'Ndocciata isn’t the only Agnonese tradition still present today, in fact on November 21st the anniversary of the "Little Christmas" is celebrated, the citizens of Agnone joyfully go to the churches where, at 6 in the morning, the typical mass “Pastoral” is celebrated, performed with music purely composed for Christmas. This tradition was born following a particular need linked to the practice of Transhumance: the shepherds, in fact, left for "Puglia", very often without the possibility of celebrating Christmas with their families. For this reason, after having obtained the blessing they celebrated by enjoying the typical homemade hot chocolate, accompanied by "raffajuoli", flat milk biscuits. Agnone, in addition to numerous popular traditions, also preserves a great artistic heritage; in fact, you should know that the town’s home to around 14 churches and many palaces that fascinate visitors with their decorations and legends. Furthermore, Agnone was known for metalworking. Gold, copper, iron and bronze, the latter in particular for the people of Agnone means bells; initially there were many families who worked it, but now the only ones left to pass on this passion of casting the bronze are the “Marinelli”. A history spanning over 1000 years, the one of the “Pontificia Fonderia Marinelli”, which has seen moments of difficulty alternate with moments seasoned with many satisfactions. Unfortunately in 1950 the headquarters of the Marinelli bell ringers was destroyed by fire. Despite this, bells continued to be cast for the most well-known and loved churches of Christianity and for the modern ones that were being born. A very important recognition was given to the Marinelli in 1954 when the President of the Republic presented the gold medal "as a highly coveted prize to the oldest company for activity and loyalty to work in the national field". 50 years have passed since then and the work of the Marinelli foundry workers continues unchanged both from the point of view of the production techniques and for the expertise, passion and professionalism that have distinguished this historic enterprise for 18 centuries. It’s these traditions, these events that repopulate our country that can provide that hope in seeing places like Agnone return to how they once were; eliminating the prejudice that describes these villages as doomed places. It’s up to us young people to protect these traditions, keeping this important artistic heritage intact. It’s young people who are asked to have the will to be able to enhance these magnificent places more and more every day, so that they are never forgotten