Sapori e Saperi Adventures

​Sapori e Saperi means flavours and knowledge. It grew out of my search for a fourth career, this time in the field of food. I had no idea it would take me to Lucca in northwest Tuscany. What we eat and how it’s produced had fascinated me even before my first career as an archaeologist studying the early history of agriculture. Outside the renaissance walls of Lucca, I discovered the modern version of those earlier inhabitants: people who know the hard work and satisfaction of producing the food of their ancestors—nutritious, full of flavour and never boring or standard.

These people have become my friends, and for me, there is no greater pleasure than taking you to learn with them and experience the delight of a new spectrum of flavours. Before I appeared at their workshops, they had rarely seen a foreign tourist, and most speak only Italian, but they’re delighted to welcome you. Your visit puts money in their pockets, but even more importantly boosts their self-esteem and makes it more likely that their children will carry on after them.

​Alongside the bakers, butchers, cheesemakers and farmers are mediaeval castles, romanesque churches, weavers, blacksmiths, broom and paper makers, concerts and village festivals. A world away from the fevered urban bustle, clamorous noise and frightening events. A world where people don’t lock their doors and children play in cobbled streets.