In this episode I talk to Angelo Coniglio about his family research and his book “The Lady of the Wheel”. Angelo explains naming conventions of the abandoned children and how poorly they were treated. This is a story set in Racalmuto, Sicily in the late nineteenth century. As historical fiction, it deals with a heartbreaking aspect of parenting: the practice of of leaving unwanted children in a revolving door or wheel (ruota) of a church, hospital or foundling home, so that the children would be cared for or placed for adoption. In some towns, the receiver of foundlings was called ‘la ruotara’ or ‘la ruotaia’ (the lady of the wheel).
https://youtu.be/uX0V4TfuJyM?si=MPzqo2gJ6KClGRvN In this episode, we explore the fascinating history of Italy, focusing on Mussolini's rise…
https://youtu.be/V3hihj9vM60 In this episode, Juliana shares her experience with the NIAF trip to Italy, exploring…
https://youtu.be/5cuPhuvSXKI In this episode, Christine McBurney shares her journey of discovering her Italian roots later…
https://youtu.be/enklF7FzCpw Viviana Altieri, founder of the Italian radio and Istituto Mondo Italiano, shares her journey…
https://youtu.be/vLxsmcQDyk8 Explore the rich history and cultural significance of Italian folk dances, especially the Tarantella,…
In this episode, we explore Italian heritage, family stories, and cultural traditions through the personal…
