Ginestra launches project to preserve Arbëreshë cultural heritage

The “Mani Arbëreshë” project has been launched in Ginestra to preserve and promote the ancient knowledge of the Arbëreshë community. Part of the Basilicata Region’s 2025 initiatives for Intangible Cultural Heritage, the project was implemented by the Cooperativa Sociale Filocontinuo under the direction of the Municipality of San Paolo Albanese.

Led by instructor Giustina Piglia, the workshop involved women, children, and the elderly in terracotta crafting. Participants created two symbolic items: the “Amuleto di Ginestra” (Ginestra Amulet) and a bowl for medicinal herbs. The sessions served as a platform for intergenerational exchange, sharing oral histories regarding amulets, incense, and folk traditions.

A notable feature of the project is the integration of NFC technology into the Ginestra Amulet. Developed with architect Rosa Bellinsegna, this allows users to tap the artifact with a smartphone to access digital content, including the history of Ginestra and recordings of traditional folk formulas shared by community elders.