Buggiano Castello’s
first committee formed to enhance the cultural environment
of the village, “Pro Buggiano Castello”
was born on December 14, 1972. It was founded by
a group of residents united in their love for the
ancient medieval village, with the intention to
create local events to enrich life for residents
of the village and others who were equally attracted
by its beauty and history. The founding committee
sought to bring new energy to the small village,
to create events and an atmosphere that would bring
others in as well.
“Pro Buggiano Castello” was succeeded
by a more formal and clearly defined “Cultural
Association of Buggiano Castello” in 1987.
Its stated purpose was to promote knowledge and
awareness of the Valdinievole -- the valley above
which Buggiano rises -- in general, and, in particular,
Buggiano Castello, with the objective of
conserving
and valuing its
cultural patrimony,
its
history and
architecture.
The Association would also undertake many
activities,
including some not strictly ‘cultural,’
that aim to promote congenial surroundings in the
community. In 2001 the Association, in confirming
a new statute, again delineated its activities,
that now included an annual and bi-annual series
of events: a yearly historical conference convened
with the assistance of the local municipality, several
voluntary cleanups of the village during the year,
summer musical events, painting and sculpture shows
dedicated to local artists, and other entertainments
throughout the year. In addition, high school scholarships
are awarded continue their studies.
It is important to note that the Association is
a
permanent fixture in the life
of Buggiano Castello. It is totally voluntary, and
the entire community votes each year to bring members
onto the main committee, which meets regularly during
the year to organize and realize events of the village.
A particular event in which the entire community
is involved is the opening of the highly prized
and attractive private gardens of the village, which
takes place during two spring weekends every third
year. It is a major undertaking that includes many
backyard gardens that cannot be otherwise seen from
the road. The care with which gardens – along
with public spaces in the entire village –
are spruced up in preparation is a good indication
of the proud and earthy ties the villagers have
to their land. Walls of gardens and homes are espaliered
with lemons, jasmine and bougainvillea that contribute
to the festive and welcoming atmosphere that engulfs
the village and its inhabitants.
Enrico Coturri was first president of the Association,
from 1972 through 1999; from that time Giancarlo
Panconesi has been president.
Founding members: Enrico Coturri,
Giuseppe Pierini, Carlo Carlini, Aligi Cardelli,
Giuseppe Clari, Luigi Dami, Giancarlo Panconesi,
Vivaldo Pasquinelli, Rolando Puccini, Gigliola
Schiavelli, Marcello Cappelli, Germano Pellegrini,
Giovannino Vitelli, Mirella Bellandi, Mauro Cardelli,
Mario Fattorini, Marcello Niccoli, Renata Sacchi,
Rino Zei, Padre Giuliano Panattoni, Corrado Cialdoni,
Ivano Fattorini, Argentina Grifoni, Ezio Pasquini,
Giovanni Pierini, Rodolfo Torre
