GustArti

GustArti: A day of ancient crafts and local flavors

GustArti is a widespread event that brings the Agriturismo La Canestra to life every year in early October. Located in the village of Aglioni, along Via San Rocco, in the Municipality of Capitignano in the province of L'Aquila, the event was conceived in 2023 by the farm owners, Giuseppe and Bruna, together with local associations and the community. It celebrates ancient trades, artisan creativity, and the genuine flavors of the Alto Aterno, inviting visitors to slow down and rediscover their connection with the land and farming traditions.

Ancient crafts and artisan skills

The heart of the festival lies in the live demonstrations of ancient crafts, where artisans and masters share techniques and knowledge passed down through generations. Past editions have featured:

• Loom weaving, tatting lace, crochet, and macramé;
• Soap making and the preparation of natural essences and oils;
• Basket weaving, wood carving, and chainsaw sculpting;
• Organetto (accordion) building and dry-stone wall construction;
• Creative upcycling of discarded objects into lamps.

Flavors of the Laga and local products

GustArti is also a culinary journey through the products of the Abruzzo Apennines: vegetables, legumes, local flours, honey, cheeses from local farmers, polenta, bronze-die pasta, and traditional wines, with demonstrations related to the grape harvest and the milling of ancient grains. A tavern and refreshment points offer dishes prepared with local raw materials, alongside artisanal, zero-kilometer gelato.

Music, dance, and family activities

The day is accompanied by folk music and dancing, featuring gatherings of players of the organetto, the dù botte, and other traditional instruments. Numerous activities are planned for children: interacting with farm animals (donkeys, goats, rabbits, geese, chickens), pony rides, traditional games, creative workshops, planting, and cotton candy. Past editions have also enriched the program with vintage Vespa exhibitions by the Vespa Club L'Aquila and storytelling and magic shows.

Part of the Laga Rural Villages Festival

GustArti is part of the calendar of the Laga Rural Villages Cultural Festival, a traveling exhibition that promotes the small villages between Abruzzo and the Alto Aterno. For Capitignano and the entire Abruzzo Region, it represents an opportunity to share the rural life of the mountains, blending memory, community, and new creativity.