Premio Giunco

A tapestry of art, history, and tradition in the heart of Salento

Premio Giunco is one of the most original cultural highlights of the Salento summer. It takes place within the walls of the Masseria Fortificata di Celsorizzo, an ancient medieval structure in the heart of Acquarica, a district of the Presicce-Acquarica municipality in the province of Lecce, deep in the Salento peninsula. It is more than just an awards ceremony; it is a true performance evening where local history is brought to life through storytelling, dance, and music.

The marsh reed, the root of Acquarica's identity

The event's name pays homage to the marsh reed (giunco palustre), a native plant of the Salento landscape that was once the centerpiece of a traditional craft: manual weaving. For generations, reed weaving was both a trade and a hallmark of identity in Acquarica, connecting a small community to global cultures through the patient art of the craft. Premio Giunco was established to preserve and promote this heritage, under the patronage of the Associazione Fili di Giunco.

The artistic signature of Fredy Franzutti

The event is conceived and directed by choreographer and director Fredy Franzutti, head of the Balletto del Sud, one of the most renowned dance companies in Southern Italy. Franzutti designs each edition as a narrative performance that reconstructs local history, blending masterpieces of music, dance, and theater with the legacy of the Masseria di Celsorizzo and the tradition of reed weaving. The evening features classical ballet, theater, music, and poetry, with performances by the principal dancers and soloists of the Balletto del Sud, alongside surprise international guests.

Three awards for Salento

The core of the event lies in the awards presented to figures from the worlds of culture, entertainment, business, and science who have distinguished themselves through their bond with the Salento region. The prize is divided into three categories: one honoring a local figure from Acquarica, one dedicated to the world of culture, and one focused on the economy and regional development. In keeping with tradition, the names of the winners are only revealed at the end of the evening to maintain the element of surprise.

An event bridging heritage and live performance

Set in a fortified farmhouse under the late August sky, Premio Giunco combines the promotion of Salento's historical and architectural heritage with high-level live entertainment. It is an evening that speaks to both the local community and the many visitors who choose the municipality of Presicce-Acquarica and the lower Salento for their summer holidays, amidst farmhouses, historic villages, and rural traditions.