lE cOSTANTINE.
N 34.05°/ W 118.24° ITALY.
AUDIO TAPES - ROSARIA SCHITO.
Le Costantine Foundation is a remarkable place in the heart of Salento, committed to preserving local traditions, particularly in weaving and embroidery, while also fostering sustainable agricultural practices. The foundation operates as both a cultural center and a retreat, offering visitors the opportunity to engage with the region’s rich artistic and agricultural heritage.
Their weaving workshop, "Casa Laboratorio," is especially notable for continuing the ancient craft of tessitura a mano (hand weaving), using traditional looms and natural materials. Additionally, the estate includes organic farmland where they cultivate olive trees, vegetables, and medicinal herbs using eco-friendly methods.
I had the pleasure of documenting one of their main weavers, Rosario Schito, whose skill and passion for the craft are truly inspiring.
WEAVING WITH PRECISION.
With decades of experience, Rosario masterfully weaves intricate patterns that reflect the region’s artistic heritage. Watching Rosario work was an incredible experience—each movement deliberate, each thread placed with precision, carrying forward a tradition that might otherwise be lost. Her dedication to this ancient craft is a testament to the enduring beauty and significance of handmade textiles in a rapidly modernizing world.
Le Costantine has become a symbol of how cultural preservation and sustainability can coexist, making it a unique destination for those interested in art, culture, and nature.
