The Mycological Group of the Spoleto Valley in collaboration with Zon@ambiente, organizes a workshop focusing on the knowledge, recognition and various uses of edible wild herbs. Since the mists of time, man has used these plants for food and healing purposes, as well as in other lesser-known contexts. In hostile historical periods, famines and conflicts, these plants have guaranteed the survival of entire populations with their nutritional value. The use of these spontaneous natural foods, combined with a simple cooking, allow the rediscovery of now forgotten tastes and flavors.

The following topics will be explored In the four meetings, which will take place in the hall of the library “Mountagne di libri” of Spoleto’s Comunità Montana (via dei Filosofi 89):

Monday, April 1, 8:30 p.m.: Hints and notions of Botany and Classification, aimed at the recognition of the main edible wild herbs comparing them with similar poisonous species.

Thursday, April 4, 8:45 p.m.: Wild edible herbs in cooking, with detailed explanations and practical demonstrations, exposing many delicious recipes, both classic and folkloric, also associated with local traditional, religious and civil contexts.

Friday, April 5, 8:45 pm: A journey through the Paleobotany, with the help of various fossil remains from various locations around the world, the most characteristic and significant plant forms that have followed one another in the long evolutionary journey of our planet. Hints of “Ethnobotany”, a cross-section of popular traditions, phytotherapeutic properties, magical and religious-divinatory rituals, historical aspects, uses in various human environments, popular beliefs and curiosities.

And finally, Sunday, April 7 starting at 9:00 am, the last day dedicated to a botanical excursion, aimed at the recognition and collection of edible wild herbs, followed by a welcome and lunch infusion with dishes based on wild herbs and food produced by the farmer that will host us, “Località il Piano”, in the hamlet of Paterno, Vallo di Nera (PG). Various activities will also be proposed: Educational Farm, milking, preparation and tasting of mozzarella, notions of gorgonzola production, guided tour of the farm, breeding of various animals etc.

For information and pre-enrolment, please call the following telephone numbers: DAY 3291074686 SANTE 3393488503.