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CARAPIGNERIS

It all began in the early 17th century in the mountains of Aritzo, in the "Funtana cungiada" area, where huge groups of men called "niargios" preserved the winter snows inside the "domos de su nie", large and deep wells, overlooked by dry stone walls, located in places where the snow was piled up by the wind.

These, once filled, were well insulated with ferns, straw and earth, and the snow inside could be preserved for almost a year. The snow acquired a more compact shape and during the summer period it was marketed throughout the island in the form of large blocks.

The snow business soon became a private property of the state and in 1636 three entrepreneurs from Aritz obtained the royal concession from Philip IV the King for the supply of the city of Cagliari, where it is thought that some horsemen of the Viceregia Court have learned the techniques of make the Carapigna.

Until a few years ago, the parade of the carapigneris was one of the most awaited and popular, to the point that the carapigneris were often hosted during the holidays by the parish priest, the mayor or other authorities of the town.

SHOWCASE WITH TASTING: 10 EURO (ON RESERVATION)

Saturday 29 June
6.00pm - 10.00pm
Chiostro dell'Ex Convento dei Cappuccini
Via Brigata Sassari, 35 - Quartu Sant'Elena