ROOTS OF SWEET POTATO // RADICI DI PATATA DOLCE
(Ipomoea batatas)
Castello Lanza di Trabia
Trabia, Sicily, Italy
2016
In Trabia, northern Sicily, situated on the coastal road between Palermo and Cefalù, stands Castello Lanza di Trabia. This architectural marvel has a rich and varied history that begins with General Aausman Ben Muhammad, who first established his fortress there in AD 827. In the 11th century, the castle was donated to Captain Conrad Lanza, whose descendants would keep the property for 900 years. In the 17th century, Ottavio Lanza made extensive changes to the fortress, which had maintained its stronghold as a site for major strategic military decisions. Prince Raimondo Lanza di Trabia (1915-1954), a bon vivant whose successes are something of Sicilian legend, was the last member of the Lanza family to live in the castle, entertaining such renowned figures as his one-time partner Rita Hayworth, and Aristotle Onassis.
The city of Trabia also has the unique distinction of being considered the first home of spaghetti. It is mentioned by name in the earliest written references to pasta in AD 1154, and this important culinary tradition survives there even today – adding to the allure of this scenic coastal town.
Now privately owned, Castello Lanza has undergone major renovations in the past five years and will soon be opened as an exclusive destination.