Those of you that know me, know that my command of the Italian language is mediocre at best. No, no, no, do not try to suck up to me by telling me I can do more than get a room in a hotel, food in a restaurant and make little kids laugh.
What I can do is weave a story. When Renato Rinaldi, the editor of Pontelandolfo News, asked me to translate the stories behind the historic sites in town I gasped. “Me?” Was he kidding? Everyone in town has to help me with my Italian.
He wasn’t kidding. What he was looking for was an English speaker with a passion for the history of our village and the ability to tell the story of one of the most horrific incidents in the history of Italy’s reunification – the burning and pillage of Pontelandolfo in 1861.
Renato has written articles about this period, spoken at events and edited incredible books that shed light on Pontelandolfo’s role during the reunification of Italy. His most recent compilation is Pontelandolfo 14 agosto 1861 – PER RICORDARE E NON DIMENTICARE
This past summer, I immersed myself in this story. Renato, like a brilliant actor, told me bits and pieces that stoked my imagination. I am thankful for the opportunity to help him share this story with English speakers. Follow the link – touch the name of the historic site in town and when it opens touch English for the translation.
Itinerario Storico dell’ Eccidio del 1861
Ci vediamo!
Nonna's Mulberry Tree 
Just tried this and I was asked to log in to Pontelandolfo News or some such thing. Did I click the wrong link?
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That happened to me too when I clicked the English button. That is the problem. You need to first click on a location and wait for the location to open. For example, click on #1- San Donato. When the picture of the old church appears then click on English. Thanks!
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