The screening of the documentary “Aspra Mundi” at the Anchovy Museum in Bagheria was a great success. The work, created by the young Bagheria director Andrea Lorenzini and the production by Danilo Lo Iacono Loda, is supported by the Municipality of Bagheria as part of the “Participatory Democracy” tender, has brought to the fore the history, traditions and beauties of the hamlet seafaring.
Through Lorenzini’s evocative images and the voices of local experts such as Antonello Gargano and Michelangelo Balistreri, the public was able to immerse themselves in the soul of Aspra, discovering anecdotes, legends and curiosities linked to the village. The discovery of the natural heritage, with the exploration of Monte Catalfano led by the speleologist Vladimiro Mauro, completed the picture of a territory rich in charm and mystery.

“Aspra Mundi is a project that goes beyond the simple creation of a documentary – declared the mayor of Bagheria, Filippo Maria Tripoli – It is an investment in our history, our roots and our traditions. I thank the author Andrea Lorenzini, the producer Danilo Lo Iacono and all those who contributed to the creation of this important work. I am sure that this documentary will contribute to making Aspra even better known and to enhance our cultural heritage”.

The president of the city council, Andrea Sciortino, with responsibility for the seaside village of Aspra, underlined the importance of initiatives like this: “Aspra Mundi is a project that demonstrates how the active participation of citizens can lead to extraordinary results. This documentary is an invaluable asset for our community and represents a starting point for further initiatives aimed at enhancing the village of Aspra and making it known to an increasingly wider audience.”

“Mine is an act of love towards my land, a non-profit project that I have had in mind for a long time – says Andrea Lorenzini – Aspra is a fantastic community where everyone, in their own small way, gives their contribution to improving the village. I felt the need to donate something too through what I do best, telling stories through the camera. The objective was both to make our territory known, to “sell” it, enticing people to visit it, therefore encouraging tourism but also transmitting the emotion, the feelings that this place emanates without pretensions. Cultural dissemination must become a continuous commitment in our territory to make our beauties and our heritage known both in Italy but above all abroad”.

The evening, presented by the city councilor Antonello Gargano, saw the participation of numerous citizens, passionate about local history and culture. The atmosphere was that of a journey through time, an opportunity to rediscover one’s origins and to appreciate the beauty of a unique territory.
The objective of promotional tools such as this docu-film also aim to promote sustainable tourism and strengthen the community’s sense of identity.