Magna Terra

The grain itself contains the origin of civilization. It symbolizes the passage between nomadism and settled societies. Grain has always represented the certainty of development and stability. With the introduction of money, coins replaced grain as a currency. Money is an abstract human construction in which we place our trust. It has become our contemporary faith. It seems to have value, yet it can collapse anytime. People connect with this ‘sacred’ instrument that is uncertain and unstable. “Grana” (in Italy). “Blé” (in France). “Pasta” (in Spain). These popular language examples survive in different countries that refer to money and its connection with grain. In Stigliano (Basilicata), the grain is still the base of the economy, even if it is currently one of the poorest regions in Italy. A consequence of this is that recent generations do not see a future in the village, and they abandon their region and land.