Categories: AdventurePodcastTravel

The Journey Home 2023 — Toritto

The main reason for returning to southern Italy was to visit Toritto, Bari, Puglia, the birthplace of my maternal grandparents Luigi Nicoletti and Marietta Nicoletti. We were welcomed with open arms by the mayor Dionisio Rutunno, Don Nicola Mastandre the pastor of the church, Rocco Mercurio who was the chief of police and is now the town historian and has access to the archives.

My cousin’s cousin, Nicola Bartolomeo, who was born in Toritto, was so wonderful in that he picked us up in Bari and took us to Toritto and back and took us to lunch. More about the amazing lunch later.

Our good friend Letizia Sinisi founder of ItalyRooting and a native of Puglia set up this special visit for us.

It was such a special feeling to walk the streets of my ancestors, visit the piazza and get a tour of the church were they worshipped.

Throughout the church and Toritto there is amazing mosaic art work by Nebi. In fact, his art is in many Italian cities such as Naples and Pisa. You can find his site here.

As far as I know I do not have any close cousins in Toritto, as most of my grandparent’s brothers and sisters came to America in the early 20th Century. But then, as we were walking through the piazza we were introduced to Mauro Nicoletti, 96 years young. I do not have a Mauro in my tree, but I suspect that he may be a relation. Later on we were told that in 1956 he moved into the home vacated by my uncle and his family in 1954.

Rocco is going to help put the pieces together for us.

Italian Roots and Genealogy is sponsored by “Your Dolce Vita” and Dawn Mattera connecting people to their purpose in life and continuing their legacy. Contact Dawn at www.yourdolcevita.com

Images of the Chiesa.

In the commune and with the help of Rocco and the registry manager Doctor Francesco Capozzi, we were able to view records from the family. We were presented with the birth, death and marriage records of my grandparents, great grandparents and great great grandparents.

During the tour of the Olive Oil and Almond collective of 350 farmers, we were presented ambassador certificates from the mayor and Pasquale Mongelli, who also serenaded us with Italian classics. Also thanks to Mario Bartolomeo, President of the Cooperative and our photographer and translator Giuseppe Paccioine

When we first arrived the wonderful people of Toritto took us to Cafe Cube, just a short walk from the town hall. We also went there for lunch, which was out of this world and I had two of my favorites Orcchiette and Chivalata. Now if you are from Toritto and have not had it there, ha! You have now idea how exceptional it was. As you can see my wife’s seafood pasta was also excellent.

When in Toritto you must go. Cafe Cube on Facebook.

We were also hosted by Giuseppe Paccione who gave a tour of his home, part of the castle.

Finding some of my noble ancestors on the wall

For a tour like ours, contact Letizia Sinisi at www.italyrooting.com

From Italy to California: The Gemello Family’s Wine Journey

June 6, 2026 No Comments

Explore the rich history of California’s wine industry through the personal stories of Kevin Ferguson, tracing his family’s roots from Italy to California, and uncovering the fascinating history of prohibition, winemaking, and legendary wine competitions. Substack – Centenarian Playbook Family genealogy from Italy to California Impact of Prohibition on California wineries The story of Gemello Winery and its legacy The 1976 Judgment of Paris and California wines Family stories and historical recordings 00:00Introduction to Italian

Capracotta and the Transhumanza

May 23, 2026 No Comments

Explore Italian genealogy, noble families, and cultural history through personal stories and historical insights. Discover how Italy’s rich past influences modern identity and heritage. Bob Sorrentino and Ben Lariccia discuss their common roots in the town of Capracotta Molise Click here to join our group on Facebook Video

Uncovering Italian Roots: From Tuscany to California

May 15, 2026 No Comments

Explore the fascinating journey of Italian immigrants from Tuscany to California, their family stories, and the impact of genealogy and AI on uncovering personal history. Discover how personal stories, historical events, and modern technology intertwine to connect us with our roots. Click here to join our group on Facebook Video

From Italy to America: A Family’s Journey in Genealogy

April 26, 2026 No Comments

Explore the fascinating journey of Italian genealogy, family history, and the emotional reconnections that come with uncovering roots. Virginia and Lisa share personal stories, research tips, and cultural insights that illuminate the rich tapestry of Italian heritage. Italian family origins and migration patterns Differences between Northern and Southern Italian dialects and culture Using records and DNA to find family connections The emotional journey of family reunification Historical insights into Italian nobility and working class Click

How Ancestral Lineages Shape Our Identity and Well-being

April 13, 2026 No Comments

Explore the deep connections between Italian heritage, ancestral healing, and spiritual guidance. Jacqueline Hyacinth shares her journey of rediscovering her roots, healing family lineages, and the transformative power of embracing one’s heritage. http://www.jacquelinehyacinth.com Click here to join our group on Facebook Video

Uncovering Italian Roots: A Journey Through Family History

April 3, 2026 No Comments

In this engaging interview, with Chrys Maher we explore Italian-American genealogy, family stories, and the rich history behind Italian roots. Discover how personal stories, DNA, and historical research connect us to our ancestors and cultural heritage. Italian-American genealogy Family stories and traditions DNA testing and ancestry research Click here to join our group on Facebook Video