Antique and renowned is, for example, the art of weaving chestnut or willow wicker, to create beautiful baskets of all shapes and sizes. Rich and interesting is also the goldsmith tradition, especially concerning filigree jewelry and ornaments, which are strongly influenced by Byzantine art. Or that of woodworking, with precious handcrafted items made by skilled artisans.
But the highlight of Silan productions are the carpets and textile items, which have their roots in various villages, first and foremost, San Giovanni in Fiore, where even today women, using rudimentary and fascinating hand looms, create wonderful and high-quality garments.
Among these are the so-called ozaturi, heavy quilts for the cold season, but also carpets and incredible tapestries. Every year, in July, under the shade of the magnificent Forense Abbey, the ancient village hosts the Typical Fabrics Exhibition, which allows visitors to discover an art nurtured in small workshops or even within domestic walls, and which, besides fabrics and carpets, also brings to life elaborate embroideries, like the turnisti, with which linen fabrics are decorated.
