What is ciociara?

Ciociara is a term used in Italy to describe a woman hailing from the region of Lazio, specifically the countryside around the city of Frosinone. Historically, ciociare women were known for their strength, hard work, and strong family values. The term comes from the word "ciocie," meaning wooden clogs worn by women in rural Lazio.

The region of ciociara is known for its stunning landscapes, including rolling hills, fragrant vineyards, and ancient hilltop towns. The local cuisine is simple and hearty, featuring rustic dishes such as polenta, fagioli all'uccelletto, and pappardelle alla ciociara.

Famous ciociare women include the actress Sophia Loren, who was born in the town of Pozzuoli near Naples but spent many summers in the countryside with her grandmother, who was a ciociara. The song "La Ciociara" by Italian singer Fiorella Mannoia tells the story of a ciociara woman and her strength and resilience in the face of hardship.