Tuesday, June 5, 2007

italy's finest treasure






As promised from the last blog i will tell you about Carlo, the blacksmith, who we feel is truly a treasure in Italy. I have been very fortunate in my travels in Italy in that I have seen some of the greatest masterpieces ever produced. In Italy, four fifths of the worlds treasures reside, most people seek out the well known treasures, I have been lucky enough to actually meet a living artist, Carlo. This man has worked in this shop since he was a young boy. The photo you see with the small fire, is a fire his ancestors started 213 years ago. It has never gone out! Unfortunately, the fire will not burn much longer because Carlo's only son will not be able to continue in the family tradition due to medical reasons. Carlo, is not only an amazing blacksmith but a testament to self-sustained living. There are two mountains by his workshop which provide water to him through a waterfall and stream. Carlo uses this water to provide electricity and power for all of his machines. He also makes all of his tools from recycled iron and the handles from tree branches which have fallen in the surrounding woods. I am amazed when our guests go back to the states who have seen the wonders of Rome, Venice, and Florence: they always say their trip to see Carlo was the most memorable experience they had in Italy. I found a quote which I think appropriately describes Carlo's life and his works, "We exist temporarily through what we take but we live forever through what we give." If you are ever near Pescaglia, Italy please find your way to Carlo's workshop.

1 comment:

simplyolive said...

love your photos jim...can't wait to see it all in person!