When the sun comes up over the castle of Rocca Calascio, a small mountain village high up in the Italian Apennines, it’s like a silent, magic wonderland. One such sunrise struck Franco Cagnoli with a spiritual calling that led him to go on a mission that affected both the village and him deeply.
Rocca Calascio has seen no resident since 1957. Depopulation of rural or mountain villages in Italy began with the resettlement of villagers in the early 20th century, happening faster after World War II when people were attracted to urban jobs.
However, like many places, the area is enjoying a revival (复苏) and now home to some families. “To put it in romantic terms, there is a love story between me and the ancient building,” Cagnoli said as he showed visitors round the castle of Rocca Calascio. The castle, with foundations dating back about 1, 000 years, is one of the highest in Europe. It began as a tower in a line of connected structures to control and protect the land that stretched inland from the Adriatic Sea.
Cagnoli, now 39, first saw Rocca Calascio when he was 16. He was on a road trip to find himself. “I arrived here as the morning sun lit up the castle. I was blinded by the light and since that day something inside me has changed,” he said. “I thought it was the most beautiful place. I felt special energies, deciding to help its rebirth.” He’s now the castle’s caretaker and head of a cooperative whose members guide visitors.
“Besides temporary visitors, the complete revival has much to do with permanent residents. People of the previous generation didn’t appreciate the land they lived on,” Valeria Befani, a resident in the village, said. “Today’s teenagers, like my children, are proud of their land and are happy if they can stay here. ”
4. What inspired Cagnoli to help revive Rocca Calascio?
A.His trip to find himself. |
B.The impressive scene of the village. |
C.His love for ancient buildings. |
D.The historical importance of the castle. |
5. How was Rocca Calascio affected by World War Ⅱ ?
A.Its population loss speeded up. |
B.It got left behind in economy. |
C.Its buildings were damaged. |
D.It was known by more people. |
6. Why was the castle built?
A.To attract people to visit. |
B.To reduce attack from waves. |
C.To strengthen coastal defense. |
D.To protect the connected structures. |
7. What might Befani agree with?
A.Views of different generations vary greatly. |
B.Reviving Rocca Calascio has a long way to go. |
C.Teenagers doesn’t appreciate their hometown. |
D.The future of Rocca Calascio is full of promise. |