Discover Burgio and its unique bell foundry, a journey through tradition, art, and history in the heart of Sicily. An authentic experience not to be missed!

STORY AND PHOTOS BY MARCO CRUPI

Luigi Mulè Cascio, il titolare, intento a preparare degli stampi con argilla e gesso per fini didattici.

In a remote corner of Sicily, at the foot of the Sicani Mountains, lies Burgio, a quaint village with earthy hues where traditional craftsmanship defies the passage of time. Known not only for its fine ceramics and pastoral landscapes, Burgio is also the cradle of an ancient and resonant art: bell-making. Here stands Sicily’s last active bell foundry, passionately led by Luigi Mulè Cascio, the heir to a craft that has echoed across centuries.

The bell-making tradition of Burgio has its roots in the 17th century, when the Arcuri family began a production destined to resonate worldwide. The first documented bell, dated 1671, bears the name of Antonio Arcuri, the founder of the foundry. Later, the craft was passed on to Giovanni Lo Cascio, who continued to preserve the secrets of the trade. Over time, the foundry was acquired by the Virgadamo family, with Giuseppe Virgadamo as the patriarch. In the 20th century, Mario Virgadamo, Giuseppe’s grandson, breathed new life into the business, consolidating its reputation and ensuring the artisanal quality that still distinguishes it today. Today, the tradition is kept alive by Luigi Mulè Cascio, Mario’s grandson, who passionately carries on the family legacy, blending innovation with respect for centuries-old techniques.

Luigi Mulè Cascio is not just a craftsman but also an artist. A graduate of the Academy of Fine Arts in Palermo, he has managed to integrate an academic education with practical knowledge passed down through generations. Under his guidance, the foundry has been able to renew itself without betraying the historical roots that make it unique. Luigi embodies the figure of both a guardian and innovator, capable of balancing the slow rhythms of the past with the challenges of a modern market.

Creating a bell is an art that requires precision, patience, and a deep understanding of materials. The Burgio foundry still uses the lost-wax casting technique, a process that involves creating a wax model around which a terracotta mold is formed. The bronze alloy is then melted at extremely high temperatures and poured into the mold. After cooling, the bell is removed, finished, and tuned to ensure a clear and harmonious sound. Each bell is unique, the result of artisanal work that blends technical skill and musical sensitivity.

The bells from Luigi Mulè Cascio’s foundry have crossed geographical borders, reaching Oceania, the Far East, South America, and many other parts of the world. Among the most famous works is the octagonal bell donated to Pope John Paul II in 1993, a symbol of craftsmanship and devotion. The foundry has received numerous accolades, including the prestigious “Campana di Burgio” award, celebrating its artisanal excellence.

This is not just a place of production but also a true cultural hub. The foundry regularly opens its doors to school groups, tourists, and enthusiasts, offering guided tours that tell the story, production processes, and curiosities related to the world of bells. An ambitious project is also in the works: the creation of a museum dedicated to decommissioned bells, which will tell the sonic history of Burgio and all of Sicily. The foundry also collaborates with universities and research centers to explore the artistic and technological aspects of this ancient craft.

In a rapidly changing world, keeping such a specific tradition alive is not easy. The Burgio foundry faces the challenge of globalization and the disinterest of younger generations in artisanal trades. However, thanks to Luigi Mulè Cascio’s passion, the future seems less uncertain. With initiatives aimed at engaging young people and promoting the craft internationally, this tradition seems destined to resonate for a long time, adapting to the times without losing its identity.