The “Castello di Torcrescenza” set in a large park in the countryside at the northern gates of Rome, hosted a special evening conceived and produced by the Baillage of Roma Aurora with the theme “Prestige of Sicily.

Surrounded by the Parco di Roma Golf Club, the beautiful home that is the Castello is still inhabited by an old noble family. The main building dates back to 1400 but over the centuries it has inevitably undergone additions and changes. Rich in history and works of art the it is now protected by the Superintendent of Fine Arts.

The Sicilian theme promoted the island’s cultural and scenic beauty as well as its food and wine. More than 170 members and guests from all over Italy attended. The guests included actors, jazz musicians and star chefs.

Unique, exceptional, this event was created to combine high gastronomy with a Sicilian theatre performance. There were three “acts”: the first was “u passiari” which in Sicilian dialect means “walking”. During this first performance the guests could enjoy the aperitif prepared on various tables in the garden.

The second act: “u manciari” means “dinner” in Sicilian. This was held in the medieval cloister where the famous Sicilian chef Francesco Piparo prepared a nine course menu. In the final act the leading character in the play held his performance on the veranda of the castle from where one could overlook the illuminated park by night. There a cassata – a traditional dessert from Sicily decorated with candy fruits and the emblem of the Bailliage of Roma Aurora - was served.

Bailli Délégué Roberto Zanghi, accompanied by his daughter Francesca, was impressed by the particular history and beauty of the Castello. He commented that it was ideal location to showcase the “Prestige of Sicily” and congratulated all who had worked so hard to make the evening such a tremendous success.

Anna Accalai
Chargée des Missions