In an increasingly globalized world, the search for authenticity and deep roots has become a priority for travelers and lovers of good food. The De.Co. (Denominazione Comunale) was created precisely with the intention of preserving and enhancing local traditions, promoting those products that are symbolic of the culture of a given territory. Created in response to the need to protect and publicize Italian food and wine excellence, the De.Co. represents a certification that attests to the origin and authenticity of typical products, inextricably linked to a municipality and its history.
Unlike other certifications such as PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) or PGI (Protected Geographical Indication), which have recognition at the European level, the De.Co. label is a local certification designed to protect and promote the productions that are the beating heart of each community. From traditional dishes to artisanal products, each De.Co. product tells the story of a land, its people and its traditions, thus offering consumers a unique and authentic experience.
In this context, one of the first products to bear this designation is the scaccia ragusana, a dish that represents the essence of Hyblean cuisine and, thanks to its goodness and history, has earned a place of honor among the specialties not to be missed.
At the Cultural Commercial Center of Ragusa Mimì Arezzo, just this year, took place the official presentation both of the brand and of the first specification the one precisely dedicated to the typical focaccia ragusana drafted by the work of study and research of a special commission of experts.
Ragusan scaccia, with its characteristic filling of tomato and Cosacavaddu Ibleo or Ragusano DOP cheese, is more than just a dish: it is a symbol of territorial identity. Made from a dough of durum wheat semolina, yeast, oil and salt, it is carefully worked and folded over on itself several times before being baked until fragrant and golden. This artisanal process enhances the flavors of simple, wholesome ingredients that tell the story of Ragusa’s rural history and tradition.
In October, this delicacy found its official celebration with the first edition of the “Festa ra Scaccia Rausana,” an event that filled Ragusa’s historic center with flavors and colors for two intense and participatory days. The event, organized by the City of Ragusa and supported by the Sicilian Region, attracted thousands of visitors, transforming Via Roma into a gastronomic and cultural showcase. Peppe Cassì, mayor of Ragusa, said, “This festival is an opportunity to get together and celebrate a product that represents us and tells our story. I invite everyone to experience with us these two days among flavors, tradition and entertainment.” Giorgio Massari, councillor for Economic Development, also highlighted the importance of the De.Co. trademark as a tool to enhance and protect the scaccia, thanks to the specification that guarantees its authenticity and quality. Among the most anticipated moments, Barbara Conti, foodblogger of Fantasie in Cucina, and Luisa Marabita, winner of the program “Ricette d’Italia,” entertained the audience with stories and recipes related to the preparation of scaccia. The scaccia, a symbol of conviviality and tradition, was prepared by local bakers following traditional recipes, with the participation of entities such as Panificio Ecce Homo, Ragusa al Forno di Cristina, Panificio Annunziata, Panificio Euroforno, Foz – fermento officina zero, and Panificio San Giuseppe, Spighe e Papaveri Bakery, Bakery Bakery and even Agriturismo Tenuta Carbonara and Tenuta Cozzo Papaleo. During the festival, it was also possible to taste various types of scaccia, including a gluten-free version, and sample local products, such as Birrocco ‘s craft beers and local wines offered by A putia ro vinu. The event was enriched by a musical program, with performances by local bands such as Good Time’s Band and the Swing Skizzo Band, and also with an art exhibition by Giuseppe Occhipinti exploring Ragusan idioms.
With about 10,000 scaccia sold and a schedule of performances, show cooking and workshops, the festival successfully celebrated the Hyblean tradition, making the scaccia the beating heart of an experience that combined taste with the discovery of local roots. Don’t miss the chance to experience the magic of the Festa della scaccia rausana co’ pummaroru e cosacavaddu again next year.
Until the next edition!
