The floodwaters have receded, after historic flooding in Romagna in May 2023. But the work will continue for months, and years to come.
Thanks to the contributions of our generous followers, Esperienza has been able to send financial support to a variety of organizations and individuals impacted by the damage, as they work to rebuild and restore their community. We offer here a summary of the ways in which our funds will help.
SALINA DI CERVIA
The Antica Salina Camillone is the last of the 144 small salt pans existing before salt production was turned into industrial in 1959. At that time, all small salt pans were unified to form big collection and evaporation basins.
Nowadays, the “Camillone” salt pan is the only small salt pan left and an integral part of the MUSA (Salt Museum). Salt is still extracted but for demonstration only, that is to make visitors understand the salt workers’ hard work. The volunteers of the Cultural Association “Civiltà Salinara” take care of the Antica Salina Camillone
The unique, sweet salt of Cervia is a key ingredient in many famous chef’s recipes. But most importantly, this salt is the basis of Romagna cuisine. Funds raised and donated through Esperienza will help restore the park’s production of Cervia sea salt, which was brought to zero by the floods. Our Spring Culinary Tour guests also supported the efforts by assisting with a fundraising dinner hosted by Casa Artusi in June.
Esperienza travelers at the fundraising dinner for the Salinara di Cervia
SORRIVOLI
In Sorrivoli and Monteleone there are two ancient castles surrounded by medieval villages. Large landslides from the recent flooding that threaten the safety of residents houses in the historic center around the castles have required resident families to be evacuated.
The Castello di Sorrivoli is the home of the Great Puppeteers Festival, as well as a historic meeting place in addition to many cultural initiatives. In the village there is also the Casa dell 'Upupa, the house-museum of the artist Ilario Fioravanti. The village of Monteleone, which was awarded the Orange Flag by the Italian Touring Club, hosts the Borgo Sonoro traveling music festival and numerous other social and cultural initiatives.
Esperienza friends in Romagna suggested we help the campaign to provide structural support for the crumbling hillsides and the families who live there, organized by the local priest Don Pasquale Gentili, for decades the host for many artists and activists.
Sorrivoli hillside
ARTISTS OF FAENZA
Countless ceramics artists in Faenza lost their workshops and some even their homes as well. Esperienza worked with local artist Fiorenza Pancino to identify those especially struggling to rebuild, including young artists Pantou Ceramics and Elvira Keller. We also sent support to Simona Serra, a specialist in ceramics restoration.
Pantou Ceramics
SOFFIDITERRA
The Romagna association Soffiditerra is dedicated to biodiversity, seed exchange, sustainable practices and education. After the flood, Soffiditerra opened a solidarity campaign to help nearby small farmers, who use practices that are respectful of the Earth (for example, organic, biodynamic, symbiotic, synergistic, and/or permaculture farming), which have been heavily damaged. Read more about Soffiditerra in this story.