2019 - 2021
Exploring the Enchanting Landscapes of Sicily: A Journey Through Food and Tradition
- Documentation of two years in Sicily , before and during COVID Lock Down -
In the year 2019, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in the vibrant and diverse culture of Sicily through the Workaway program. This program granted me the chance to work in various locations, ranging from charming farms to the homes of welcoming Sicilian locals. One of those memorable experiences was staying in a picturesque yurt nestled in a wild garden, offering the breathtaking view of the majestic Mount Etna.
Throughout the harvest season, Sicily springs to life with a festival known as Sagre, dedicated to celebrating the region's gastronomic delights and rich history of winemaking. These events serve as an occasion to pay homage to the local specialties and express gratitude for nature's abundant blessings. Traditional costumes, lively music, and spirited dancing transform these gatherings into lively affairs.
By participating in olive and lemon picking, I had the incredible opportunity to delve deep into the essence of Sicily. Working alongside farmers and local communities, I witnessed the laborious process of honey production at the foot of Mount Etna. I also learned the art of pasta-making using Sicilian ancient grains cultivated in the traditional manner. Additionally, I acquired valuable knowledge on the creation of essential oils and indulged in the delightfully rich flavors of Sicilian wine and creamy Limoncello.
During my stay in Sampieri-Scicli, I had the pleasure of residing for a month at "Dimore del Valentino," the farmhouse and country house of the Allibrio family. This southern region of Sicily offered unique insights into the local customs and traditions.
In the Northern part of Sicily, I rented an apartment in Palermo, the capital, for two months . Every day I strolled through the streets with my camera, capturing the diverse movement of this magically historic city .
In January 2020, my Sicilian partner Salvatore and I returned to Belgium, my native country, with grand plans to establish a business centered around Sicilian products. Our intention was to participate in markets across Belgium. However, as fate would have it, the unforeseen arrival of the Covid-19 pandemic dashed our dreams and prompted a worldwide lockdown.
With the uncertainty caused by the virus, we made a bold decision to leave Belgium behind. Packed with all our belongings, we embarked on a journey back to Sicily in our van. The highways were empty, with only a few vehicles crossing our path. Although traveling illegally, the risk of being stopped and sent back to Belgium loomed over us.
It was not until we reached the sea crossing from southern Italy to Sicily that we encountered a police car. Recognizing the impracticality of sending me back at that stage, the compassionate officers allowed us to continue our journey, albeit with a fine. To minimize the chances of further encounters with law enforcement, we followed their advice and chose the smaller ferry preferred by the locals .
During this eventful ferry ride, I found myself in dire need of a restroom. Approaching a boatswain for assistance, I expected a regular response. To my surprise, he informed me that women rarely travel on this particular vessel. Nevertheless, he ingeniously resolved the issue. After a brief conversation through his walkie-talkie, he motioned for me to follow him to the captain's private bathroom.
There I was , peeing illegal in the captain's lavatory, I relieved myself in a rather surreal situation. Peering through a small round window, I watched as Sicily gleamed in the distance. The journey had been fraught with tension, I felt like. fugitive.
It was an experience both humorous and absurd.
In Sicily, we found solace in the safety of the family's countryside holiday home amidst the chaos of the Covid-19 pandemic. I ended up residing there for a year and a half before eventually returning to Belgium.
Reflecting on my time in Sicily, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the tranquil refuge I had found. While news of the global lockdown reached me in Belgium, I realised I had been fortunate enough to spend this time surrounded by unspoiled nature, under a clear sky, and in the company of genuine people, almost unaware of the worlds complete chaos.
Sicily, with its raw and captivating treasures, remains a haven unburdened by the relentless onslaught of mass tourism. For me it was a safe place to escape the Covid madness .
This magical island needs no filter, and I fervently hope it retains its authentic charm for many generations to come.
