Basket Weaving in Italy – Il Cestaio in Abruzzo
Behind every handmade basket lies an infinite world of skills and experience of manual ability, as well as deep knowledge of nature. The art of weaving is linked to the places and characteristic plants of each territory, such as branches of willow, hazelnut, elm, chestnut, olive, and so on. Continue reading to learn more about this fascinating aspect of Abruzzo culture. If you will be traveling in the Abruzzo region, consider joining us for an Abruzzo Custom Tour.
Ancient Abruzzo Traditions
Moreover, the harvesting and weaving moments depend on respecting the right lunar calendar and the seasonal climate. In this way, the plants are not ruined, and this also prevents the basket from becoming worm-eaten.
Materials Used for Italian Basket Weaving
The goal is to create useful and durable containers over time. No paint is used to give colour to the artifacts. Instead, the shades are given naturally, depending on the used materials. When and if they break, they go back to nature, decomposing completely with the help of land, water, and wind.
Uses of the Baskets
I have distant memories of my Nonno (Grandpa) weaving the baskets when I was a kid. These days, after 40-50 years, we still have and use those baskets at home for picking fruit, truffles, wild mushrooms, vegetables, but also for carrying stuff to a picnic organized during a great sunny day.
Andònje, the Teacher
Have you always dreamed of learning how to weave baskets and helping to maintain and promote this ancient tradition? When I first saw Andònje (the local dialect for Antonio) at the festival, I couldn’t resist sitting close to him, observing him, and asking him to teach me how to weave a basket. During the first night, I stayed until 2 a.m. and then returned the following day to complete it. After about 6 to 7 hours of learning, I made a small basket that I believe my Nonno would be very proud of. (Want to learn skills during your stay in Italy? Why not join us for our Traditional Cheesemaking Class in Abruzzo?)
I’m even more excited to keep this tradition alive by offering this experience where you will LEARN HOW TO MAKE the traditional cesti (baskets).
Discover more of our CULTURAL & CULINARY EXPERIENCES in Abruzzo, which are available on our website.
Map – take me there
If you are looking to organise a bespoke tour to Abruzzo, please do not hesitate to get in contact with me. You can also explore our Abruzzo Day Tours for more inspiration.
With Amore From
Marino Cardelli