We are blessed to live in Roccaspinalveti, a town with history dating back to the 1000’s. Today traditions hold strong, especially concerning the family nucleus, but also there is room for innovation and creativity. Hopefully, as John and I get to know this town better and learn about its history and environs, we can share some of that which we have learned.

What did catch my eye recently is that many of the older women continue to dress in the traditional costumes of the area. My blog today is mostly a pictorial dedication to these ladies. I didn’t want to offend any of those pictured here, so I asked permission before snapping any pics. These ladies are from our frazione (neighborhood) or a nearby one and we see them on our ‘la passiggiata’ (evening stroll) with our dogs.

Black is dominate along with dark blues and purples. The costume can consist of a dress or skirt and blouse along with head kerchief and dark hose. Most of the ladies wanted to remove their kerchiefs upon me taking their pics, so I have some ladies with and without. I just had to post all the lovely smiles. There are numerous traditionally garbed women in Rocca, but I stuck to my neighborhood due to familiarity with these ladies.  But truth be told, everyone is very welcoming in this town, so maybe I’ll get John to do a compilation on costumes. 😉

Maria is always ready with a smile and a hello, when we walk every day. This evening she graciously offered us some of her grapes. We happily complied.

 

Gina, with her husband Nino, starting their annual wine making process. I thought it interesting that the colors of both their attire were in keeping with the grape juice flowing. Truly sweet couple that live just down the road from us.

Another gracious lady.. interesting to see ladies still working olive groves attired in skirts. Just I was taking the shot, she slipped her kerchief down on her shoulders.

 

This dear lady was a bit shy at first to have her picture taken, tending to hide her face. But I felt she was beautiful and told her so, and she blew me this kiss. The blessings that come our way….

As with the other ladies, this evening one of my neighbors spoke the local dialect. It usually leaves me very confused, but I do get a few words figured out here and there. Maybe, after years of listening, I’ll truly understand. Until then, basic academic Italian for me.

There are many more lovely ladies, but with the weather turning cooler, it is more difficult to find them out and about, as when it was warmer. If I get more, I will add to this posting.

In parting, just know that John and I count our blessings everyday to be among these wonderful people. I hope I can say ‘thank you’ to these ladies by sharing their traditions here.