San Marzano di San Giuseppe, Italian comune
San Marzano di San Giuseppe is a small commune in the Province of Taranto situated on a plateau surrounded by the countryside of the Murge tarantine. Narrow streets and stone houses define the town, where residents go about their daily routines chatting with neighbors and moving through the community.
The town was founded in the late 15th century and received Albanian refugees fleeing Ottoman rule in their homeland. In the 17th century it gained the title of Marquesate and changed hands among noble families until the 20th century, when it passed to the Casalini family.
The town maintains a living Albanian heritage through the Arbëreshe language and customs brought by refugees centuries ago. Traditional homes feature distinctive Albanian chimneys, and residents continue to speak this ancient language as a connection to their ancestors' past.
Plan to arrive early or late afternoon when street life is most active and the heat subsides. The narrow alleys have flat surfaces but sturdy shoes help on the uneven stone streets, and bringing water is important for staying hydrated in the warm climate.
Each year on March 19 the community celebrates the feast of Saint Joseph with massive bonfires called 'fucarazzu' that burn through the night, symbolizing community unity. This tradition involves a solemn procession where residents gather and carry bundles of wood accompanied by horses and carts to light the fire.
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