Nestled in the picturesque hills of the Comino Valley, Casalattico, a quiet village in the province of Frosinone, is the fulcrum of a fascinating history that is intertwined with Ireland, transforming its cultural heritage into a lively and irresistible Celtic-Ciociarian mix. Italian spoken with an Irish accent resonates through the streets of Dublin thanks to an extraordinary community of emigrants from this small village, with a peculiar record of 700 inhabitants registered as residents abroad.

The phenomenon of emigration from Casalattico, especially to Ireland, began after the First World War, reaching its peak between 1950 and ’60, a period in which poverty pushed many families to seek opportunities abroad. Today, thousands of Casalattico citizens call Ireland home, contributing to the vibrant diversity of this land.

Among the illustrious emigrants of Casalattico stands out Charles (Carmine) Forte, a man of extraordinary success and great fortune. Founder of one of the largest hotel and restaurant chains in the world, Charles Forte was even made a Baronet by the Queen of England in 1981. Originally from Monforte, a hamlet of Casalattico, Charles Forte initially settled in Scotland, but later moved to Ireland after learning about the story of Giuseppe Cervi di Picinisco, who opened the first Fish & Chips Shop in Dublin. This fascinating bond between Picinisco and Casalattico, combined with the entrepreneurship of Charles Forte, has left an indelible mark on the history of these places.

The strong bond between Casalattico and Ireland is celebrated every year with the Irish Fest, an extraordinary event that takes place on August 14th. This food and wine festival represents a fascinating encounter between Celtic and Ciociarian culture, where the returning Casalatticesi proudly prepare local delicacies such as sagne with cannellini, polenta, minestrone, stew with potatoes, coratella, local wine and pecorino cheese, alongside Irish specialties such as sausages, bacon, smoked salmon, fish and chips and typical beers, distributed among the numerous stands in the alleys of the historic center. A unique opportunity to savor two culinary traditions side by side in harmony.

The economic success of the Casalatticesi is tangible, as evidenced by the record number of Ferrari car registrations in Monte Carlo. Out of about 650 inhabitants, about twenty of these pearls of luxury cars belong to the inhabitants of this small village, who become customers of absolute respect for the famous car manufacturer from Maranello.

Casalattico, with its history of emigration and success, offers tourists the opportunity to immerse themselves in a fascinating combination of Ciociara tradition and the irresistible charm of Ireland, giving a unique perspective on Italian multiculturalism.