Pius V and Scappi served up illustrated gastronomy book
St Pius V was a remarkable pontiff who did a great deal to defend the faith. Although he ate frugally, he had the finest cook of the Renaissance (inherited from his predecessor): Bartolomeo Scappi. Thanks to Pope Ghislieri, he published ‘Opera dell’arte del cucinare’, the first illustrated book on gastronomy. And in May, a film will be released, ‘Il Cuoco del Papa’ [The Pope’s Cook], based on this historic publication.
Sixtus IV and Platina, a historic meeting for gastronomy
Over the centuries, various Popes have left their mark - some more, some less - on culinary art and literature. In particular, Sixtus IV financed the first printed book on gastronomy, 'De honesta voluptate et valetudine', written by Bartolomeo Sacchi, known as Platina, who not only wrote his own recipes but also translated into Latin those of a great chef of the time, Maestro Martino.
Lent and fasting, a means of opening up to God
During Lent, the faithful are invited to eat simply, almost frugally. The self-control exercised during this period is a way of strengthening the soul, following the example of Jesus in the desert, in order to be filled with Him. Even during Lent, however, various countries present interesting recipes, based on vegetables, fish and inexpensive ingredients.
Carnival, a feast of traditional foods
The origins of Carnival can be traced back to very ancient festivities such as the Roman Saturnalia or the Greek Anthesteria. At the end of this period, known for its hearty meals, is Shrove Tuesday, which in every part of the world offers rich and tasty food, from cicerchiata in Italy to papo de anjo in Brazil. Then comes Ash Wednesday and the time of Lent, when people are particularly called to fasting and conversion.
- THE RECIPE: NEAPOLITAN CHIACCHIERE
Saint Valentine, when love is tinged with martyrdom
February 14 is universally known as Valentine’s Day, a celebration day for lovers. At the origin of an anniversary that is now mainly commercial lies the extraordinary story of a saint who was martyred for blessing the marriage of a Roman legionnaire who had converted to marry a young Christian.
How Covid has masked our faces (like slaves)
Power needs to destroy social relations, to create lonely, easily manipulated individuals. It has even legitimised the fact of having to mask one's face. But how can you have a relationship with another person without seeing his or her face? The human face is the one part of the body that must always be uncovered and not hidden. It is no coincidence that in ancient Greece the slave was defined as faceless, and therefore without dignity.
Candlemas, the triumph of sweet and savoury pancakes
On 2 February, the day of Jesus' presentation in the temple and Mary's purification, both Italy and France have a tradition of eating pancakes (or crêpes). There are many versions and variations depending on the region, but it is a shared tradition. And in France, in all regions, only crêpes are eaten for Candlemas, from morning to night.
- THE RECIPE: KNIAKIACHL
