"Serenity for Scalea: Mayor's Prayer to Madonna del Lauro for a City-family of 11,000"

As your guides in the Riviera dei Cedri and curious souls, we always find ourself drawn to the stories and traditions of different places. Recently, we had the incredible opportunity to sit down with the mayor of Scalea Giacomo Perrotta, a charming coastal town in Riviera dei Cedri. Our conversation delved into the significance of the Madonna del Lauro celebration, the personal experiences of the mayor, and the unique dynamics of living in a small community. Join us as we recount the highlights of this unforgettable interview and share the essence of Scalea’s spirit.

The mayor shared with us the origins of the Madonna del Lauro celebration, which pays homage to the Madonna who protects sailors. It began with a tale of survival and gratitude from sailors who had encountered a tsunami while traveling between Scalea and the Amalfi coast. They made a vow to the Madonna del Lauro, promising to build a church in the town where they landed if they survived. This annual celebration, held on September 7th and 8th, honors this vow and includes a procession to the sea, symbolising the Madonna's protection over sailors.

We were curious to know if the mayor had always envisioned himself in a position of leadership. Surprisingly, he shared that as a child, he hadn't thought about it at all. However, life took him on a path of education, work, and community involvement. Eventually, his desire to make a difference in his hometown led him to pursue a role in local politics. To his own surprise, he succeeded, and now carries the responsibility of being the mayor of Scalea.

In our conversation, the mayor expressed a personal and heartfelt wish for serenity. Living in a tight-knit community like Scalea, where everyone knows each other, he highlighted the importance of finding serenity amidst the differing opinions and occasional challenges of political life. He emphasised the need for tranquility not just for himself but for all the residents of Scalea, as they navigate their daily lives in this close-knit family of eleven thousand people.

No interview about a cultural celebration would be complete without mentioning the delicious Italian food! The mayor shared some of the typical dishes enjoyed during the Madonna del Lauro festivities. From spaghetti alla scaleoto with anchovies, also stuffed, fried, and baked anchovies, the culinary traditions of Scalea reflect the town's history as a village of sailors. These delectable dishes, along with eggplant parmesan and baked pasta, are savoured by families as they come together to celebrate the holiday.

Our conversation with the mayor of Scalea provided a glimpse into the soul of this enchanting coastal town. The Madonna del Lauro celebration serves as a reminder of the town's deep connection to the sea and its maritime heritage. Through the mayor's personal experiences and aspirations, we discovered the challenges and joys of leading a small community.Scalea’s rich traditions, warm hospitality, and the desire for serenity resonate deeply within us. It's a place where tradition, community, and faith intertwine, creating a unique tapestry that we are grateful to have experienced firsthand.