A group of migrants in Porto Venere has recently preserved a Ligurian tradition by restoring an ancient gozzo. This initiative coincided with the Day of Memory and Welcome, commemorating the tragic Lampedusa shipwreck of 2013, which claimed 368 lives.
Migrants Restoring Ligurian Gozzo in Porto Venere
The restored gozzo, named “Nella,” holds historical significance, having been built in 1932 by master shipbuilder Aristide Guano. It won the Palio del Golfo in 1933 with a crew from the local community.
Commemoration and Hope
Corrado Ricci, the event’s organizer, emphasized the dual nature of this day. While mourning the victims of the past, there is also a focus on responsibility and hope for the future. He stated, “We want to demonstrate that integration is possible when the youth arriving by sea are offered education to face employment challenges.”
Training and Employment Opportunities
The restoration project involved fourteen young individuals, who revitalized the gozzo through training facilitated by the regional training center Cisita. Two of these trainees, asylum seekers from Bangladesh and Guinea, have secured jobs with Cantiere Valdettaro, known for its expertise in restoring classic boats.
- Gozzo Name: Nella
- Year Built: 1932
- Original Builder: Aristide Guano
- Palio del Golfo Win: 1933
- Asylum Seekers Employed: 2
- Training Center: Cisita
Impact on Local Community
Francesco Buttà, a master shipbuilder involved in the training process, reflected on the enriching experience. He noted that interacting with the young trainees provided him with deeper insights and renewed motivation in his teaching role.
This initiative not only serves to restore a beloved Ligurian vessel but also highlights the potential for cultural exchange and community building through integration. The event exemplifies how migrants can contribute significantly to local traditions and industries.
