GIULIANO’S GARDEN

On my first visit to Cinque Terre, and before moving here, I was wandering around one of the towns when I met Giuliano. In my travels, I have found that most locals, especially in small towns are very friendly and welcoming. Since moving here, that perception hasn’t changed. I couldn’t tell you the number of times people have run inside to collect freshly harvested fruit and vegetables that they have grown in their own gardens to offer to me. I’ve been given wild apples, pumpkin, zucchini flowers (the best time of year!), chestnuts have been collected in the forrest, mushrooms, you name it!

When I met Giuliano, he said hello and was very friendly and chatty, although we couldn’t speak the same language. The great thing about Italian is that they use their hands so much when they’re talking that even if you don’t understand the words, you can work out the gist of what they’re trying to say! He wanted to show me his garden, better described as a little piece of paradise with a stunning view. I managed to explain that I would like to come back with my camera if that was ok, to which he agreed.

When I went back to take some photographs in Giuliano’s garden, I ended up staying for a few hours. He showed me around, showed me all the plants that all the fruits and veggies grew on. He then offered coffee and then wine which we drank while eating hazelnuts which he had collected off his tree. He pulled out a dictionary and we just sat there (trying) to have a conversation while looking at the view. He then sent me back to my accommodation with two bags of fresh fruit, veggies and herbs!

Since moving to Italy, I still see Giuliano around regularly and he is always just as kind and friendly. Even offering fresh zucchini flowers when my Mum comes to visit so that we can make zucchini fritters. For anyone that hasn’t eaten these before, you need to know that they are like gold! They are absolutely delicious and most people don’t share them! Giuliano however, tells us to come in the mornings and loads us up with the most amazing flowers! I actually stopped passing by his house for a few days because I felt rude refusing them but I didn’t want him to offer anymore because I felt bad accepting them!