Revival of the Pasta Tradition: NonnaLive Brings Handmade Pasta Back

Chiara Leone and Chiara Nicolanti, two friends from Palombara Sabina, together with nine grandmothers, are committed to reviving the traditional hand-made pasta production. In their hometown, not far from Rome, they offer up to five courses daily to teach guests from all over the world the art of pasta making. In the 1990s, Ms. Leone learned traditional pasta making from her grandmother. These memories and the desire to keep the family tradition alive led to the founding of NonnaLive. "Homemade pasta is the symbol of a Sunday lunch with family," Leone explained. Angela De Paolis, one of the grandmothers lovingly called Lalla, also provides an emotional insight: "Instead of sitting my grandchildren in front of the TV, I teach them how to make pasta. Tears flow as I think of my own grandmother." The idea for NonnaLive arose seven years ago when Nicolanti shared a photo of her grandmother making pasta on Facebook. The response was overwhelming, and suddenly everyone wanted to cook pasta with the "Nonna." Since then, the courses have attracted curious visitors and tourists from all over the world and have become one of the most popular activities in Rome on Airbnb. The courses follow a proven format: after a brief tour of the picturesque streets of Palombara Sabina and past the impressive Castello Savelli, participants gather around a large table. There, they learn to make Farfalle, Ravioli, and other pasta shapes. The recipes are simple, but the process is intense and requires patience and skill. For many participants, the experience is an unforgettable step back in time, when handmade pasta was an integral part of Italian family life. Leone emphasized that this tradition was lost in her parents' generation but hopes to contribute to its rediscovery with NonnaLive. The courses, which last about two hours, offer participants not only the opportunity to learn pasta making but also to experience a sense of community and nostalgia. The cheerful anecdotes and warm reactions of the grandmothers create a unique atmosphere. Prominent supporters such as Andy Luotto, an Italian TV chef, also back the initiative. "As long as there are grandmothers demonstrating handwork, there is hope for Italy," he said. Despite all efforts, it remains to be seen whether handmade pasta can reclaim its place in the modern everyday life of Italians. Nevertheless, NonnaLive has already left an aesthetic and emotional impact.