The Significance of the Fogolar
The Fogolar originates from the region of Friuli-Venezia-Giulia, an autonomous area situated in the most northeastern corner of Italy, bordering Austria, Slovenia, and Croatia. The Friuli-Venezia-Giulia region has autonomous status within Italy, upholding it’s own customs, language and identity. There are four individual provinces comprising the region, Udine, P
ordenone, Gorizia, and Trieste. Trieste is the capital city of Friuli-Venezia-Giulia, with Udine as capital historical city, while maintaining the largest population of the region. The Fogolar is a cast iron open hearth, typically situated in the central area of rural Friulano homes. The Fogolar was built as the main focal point of all homes serving as the only source of heat and cooking. The Fogolar was where the family would congregate, especially during cold winter months. Women would be found knitting, men relaxing and children quietly listening to stories recalled by grandparents. The Fogolar for many Friulani immigrants lies deep in their hearts, igniting warm memories of close family reunions and of earlier rustic times. The warmth and symbol of the Fogolar has been extended to all outside the Friuli region through the establishment of the Fogolar and Famee clubs throughout the world. In Canada there are currently 17 Fogolar Furlan and Famee clubs extending from coast to coast. The Fogolar Furlan Niagara Club was established in 1971 sustaining membership within the Niagara and Western New York regions, participating in and enjoying numerous community activities.
