The National Bailliage’s 48th Grand Chapitre was based at the 4 star Hilton Sorrento Palace in the beautiful town of Sorrento.

Jewels of the paradise that is the Sorrentine Peninsula and the Amalfi Coast in general were also used as event locations: Positano, Capri, Vico Equense and Massa Lubrense for example.

The scene was set with lunch at Il Buco Restaurant on Thursday. In the evening, Bailli Délégué Roberto Zanghi and Piervittorio Tione, Bailli of Sorrento and Amalfi Coast, welcomed everyone with cocktails in the citrus garden of the host hotel.

That evening there was a choice of two restaurants for dinner: Quattro Passi or Relais Blu. Both options received many accolades.

Exploring the island of Capri was the main activity during the day on Friday with lunch arranged at Mamma’ Isola di Capri. In the evening the Grand Hotel Royal was the destination for dinner overlooking Mount Vesuvius and the Bay of Naples.

The next morning the Induction Ceremony was held at the Tasso Theatre located in a former convent followed by a buffet lunch at the Grand Hotel Europa Palace. Culmination of the four days of celebration enjoying excellent gastronomic experiences at restaurants of the highest level together with wine pairings of phenomenal quality of course was at the Gala Dinner.

How to top the exceptional offerings was a challenge! Imagine this – a 17th century castle built by Charles II of Anjou overlooking the sea. The Guisso Castle in Vico Equense certainly was the jewel in the Grand Chapitre’s crown for the gala evening.

On the Sunday touring Positano on the Amalfi Coast with lunch at Il Covo dei Saraceni was much enjoyed as friends old and new talked about their experiences over the past four days.

Memories were certainly created as confirmed by all who were there. Sharing unique, enchanting views, tasting various local delicacies and appreciating the authenticity of the dishes encourages great harmony as only the spirit of conviviality of the Confrérie can give.

The Grand Chapitre was presided over by René Kamber, Member of the Conseil Magistral from Switzerland. He expressed his deep appreciation for the impeccable organisation of the four-day festival arranged by Bailli Piervittorio Tione supported by Bailli Délégué Roberto Zanghi, also a Member of the Conseil Magistral, and the National Council.

Bruno Peloi
Chancelier