At 94 years old, Margherita Ciarletta keeps alive a centuries-old tradition in the village of Scanno, in the heart of the mountains of Abruzzo, central Italy. Known as "Nonna Margherita" or "L'Ultima Regina," she is the last resident to wear the traditional attire worn by generations of women in the region every day.
The dark wool garment with a headscarf was common in rural life. Margherita has worn it since she was 18, even after the death of her husband, who disliked the attire. "I've always loved this dress; I'm proud to wear it," told CNN.
Over the years, her presence on the cobblestone streets of Scanno has become a tourist attraction. Visitors roam the village in search of the "nonna" to take a photo. Although reluctant to be harassed, she welcomes most visitors with kindness, as long as her privacy is respected.
Resistance and routine at 94 years old
Margherita has lived in the same house since 1950. She does housework, tends the garden, cooks, and walks the trails around the village. She uses a cane only occasionally and lives independently. "I do everything myself," she says.
After the death of her two sisters, who also continued to wear traditional clothing, Margherita became the only one in the village to wear this daily habit. While other women still parade in festive attire on special occasions, she maintains her simple attire, a symbol of work and peasant routine.
Intangible heritage and cultural heritage
Given the visual and cultural impact of Margherita's presence, local authorities are working to have Scanno's costumes recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.
Scanno, which once had over 4 inhabitants in the 1920s, is now home to around 1.600. Emigration to urban centers and abroad has emptied the village, which still preserves Baroque, Romanesque, and Gothic buildings.
Tradition and modernity in balance
Despite missing family, neighbors, and the community spirit of the past, Margherita isn't trapped in nostalgia. She appreciates the comforts of today and enjoys her free time with serenity. "I'm better today than I was yesterday; I have time for myself and I relax. I discovered what leisure is all about."
Having never left Italy and having traveled very little throughout her life, Margherita has no intention of leaving Scanno. Her grandchildren help her maintain a distance from the more insistent tourists. In return, they receive home-cooked meals, such as pasta sfoglia and gnocchi with turnip greens. (cime di rapa ou friarielli) typical of the region.
His image continues to circulate on social media, not as a celebrity, but as a living symbol of a dying culture.
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