On May 5, 2025, the Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria hosted a press conference unveiling three new books from the series "Quaderni. Patrimonio della provincia di Alessandria." This series aims to celebrate the rich cultural and economic history of the Alessandria province. The new volumes include "Quarto dizionario dei cittadini illustri – Le Storie" edited by Piercarlo Fabbio, "L’economia della ricerca. I fattori di sviluppo, l’innovazione, le eccellenze" by Enrico Sozzetti, and "Gli uomini del piombo" by Roberto Gilardengo.
During the event, attendees were introduced to the significance of each book and the contributions they make to local culture and knowledge. Piercarlo Fabbio's "Quarto dizionario dei cittadini illustri – Le Storie" explores a previously underrepresented demographic—the rural population—highlighting how many notable figures from the province have shaped its history. This volume includes biographical sketches of over a hundred illustrious citizens, serving as an appendix to previous editions.
Enrico Sozzetti’s work, "L’economia della ricerca. I fattori di sviluppo, l’innovazione, le eccellenze," is a comprehensive treatise on the critical role of research in driving technological innovation. It emphasizes how research serves as a fundamental engine of economic growth, drawing on an extensive array of economic data and statistical research. The book covers various sectors, from industry to agriculture, and discusses how collaboration and teamwork have led to remarkable advancements in Alessandria.
Roberto Gilardengo's "Gli uomini del piombo" tells the poignant story of typographers and journalists in Alessandria during a tumultuous period marked by the tragedies of terrorism. This narrative blends factual history with imaginative storytelling, capturing the essence of the city during those years.
The event featured notable speakers, including Luciano Mariano, Roberto Gilardengo, Enrico Sozzetti, and Piercarlo Fabbio, who shared insights into their works and the importance of preserving local heritage. The presentation underscored the foundation's ongoing commitment to promoting cultural initiatives that enrich the community.
In another significant literary event, on May 9, 2025, the municipality of Ferrandina will host the presentation of the book "Gli interrogatori e le sentenze nel processo di Calvello del 1822" by Franco Villani and Carmelina Colombino. This book offers a fresh perspective on the Moti Carbonari, a pivotal moment in the Risorgimento history of the region.
The authors delve into the original interrogations and sentences issued by the Martial Court, shedding light on the harsh Austrian repression faced by patriots during that time. Among those executed were local figures Francesco and Giuseppe Venita, along with their attendant Francesco Paolo Giusti, whose stories are poignantly recounted in the text.
The presentation will feature remarks from Ferrandina's Mayor Carmine Lisanti, Cultural Councillor Pierluigi Di Biase, and co-author Carmelina Colombino, with coordination by Franco Villani. This event is expected to deepen the understanding of a vital chapter in local and national history, thanks to the thorough research conducted by the authors.
Additionally, the cultural contributions of Adriano Raparo, who passed away in the summer of 2024 at the age of 82, continue to resonate. Raparo was a dedicated educator and a passionate linguist, known for his work on the Italian language and dialects. In 1997, he co-authored "Guida all’uso del vocabolario della lingua italiana" with Carla Marello, which became a staple alongside the renowned "Zingarelli" dictionary.
Following this, Raparo embarked on an ambitious study of surname etymology, culminating in the 2014 publication of "Dizionario etimologico dei cognomi del Maceratese, dell’Anconetano e del Fermano." His tireless research led to the posthumous release of "I cognomi di Macerata e della sua provincia," published by Luca Bartoli. This dictionary features approximately two thousand entries, detailing the distribution and etymology of surnames in the region.
Raparo's scholarship reflects his unwavering dedication to linguistic studies, and his meticulous approach is noted by colleagues, including dialettologist Agostino Regnicoli, who emphasized the rigor of Raparo's research methods.
Lastly, in a celebration of cultural heritage, the Greek writer Elisabetta Theotoky Albrizzi has brought to life the popular world of Corfu through her recently republished book on Corfiot costumes from the 15th to the 19th century. This volume, now in its third edition, is a significant contribution to the understanding of the island's traditional attire and cultural exchanges with various civilizations, including the Venetians, French, and Turks.
Albrizzi's extensive research spans over fifty years and includes a rich collection of garments and ornaments now housed in the Historical Museum of Athens. The book features reproductions of altar pieces, miniatures, and paintings, illustrating the diverse influences that shaped Corfiot fashion.
Through her work, Albrizzi not only documents the clothing but also the jewelry, textiles, and intimate garments that reflect the island's history. Her efforts ensure that the cultural memory of Corfu is preserved and passed on to future generations.
These recent literary contributions highlight the importance of cultural preservation and the ongoing exploration of regional histories, providing valuable insights into the identities and traditions that define these communities.
