Walking through the streets of Savoca, the Sicilian village chosen by Francis Ford Coppola as location of the film “Il Padrino”.
In this photo there is the Sicilian cart (carretto siciliano), one of the most recognizable symbols of Sicilian folklore.
It’s an ornate, colorful horse- or donkey-drawn cart that originated in the early 19th century in Sicily to transport goods.
With the advent of motorization in the Sicilian countryside in the mid-20th century, the use of the carretto became obsolete; today, it is mostly considered a carefully crafted art object. You may be able to still see some when you visit Sicily, mostly for the delight of tourists.
Carts were used both for work, to carry light loads, and for festive occasions, such as weddings and parades. Horses were mostly used in the city and on flat plains, while donkeys or mules were preferred in rough terrain.
Different craftsmen are involved in the construction of a carretto, each with his own task. The first stage is the work of the ‘carradore’, the person who builds the cart, carves the decorations and prepares the wheels. Then comes the blacksmith, who forges the metal parts. Finally, the painter adds color and liveliness to the cart, through intricate geometric designs and scenes depicting chivalrous, mythological, historical or ‘novel-esque’ gestures. These scenes also served the purpose of conveying historical information to those who were illiterate.
The colors of Sicily’s flag, yellow and red, feature prominently on the carts. The animals pulling the carts are often elaborately adorned as well.
Carretto artisans keeping the tradition alive have become rare nowadays. Miniature versions are easily found in souvenir shops for those wishing to carry home a carretto siciliano.