In the quiet streets of Casale Monferrato, a town steeped in history and culinary tradition, an unexpected tale unfolds where the aroma of ancient biscuits mingles with the echoes of a bygone football glory. This is not just a story of a business, but of passion, preservation, and a community`s unwavering spirit.
From Ancient Grocer to Krumiri Sanctuary
Nestled on Via Roma, at the corner of Piazza Mazzini, stands a building that once housed the Drogheria Corino, established in 1764. It held the distinction of being Italy`s oldest grocery store. However, time and changing markets necessitated a transformation. Enter Augusto Racca, a visionary entrepreneur and farmer, whose unique approach has breathed new life into this historical edifice.
Racca recognized that the era of traditional grocers had faded. His solution? To pivot towards a cherished local delicacy: the Krumiri. These ancient, curved biscuits, originating in Casale in 1878, are now the star attraction. The Drogheria Corino has been meticulously repurposed into a modern Krumireria, an elegant bar-bistro where the singular rule is the utmost valorization of raw materials. Racca proudly offers 26 distinct types of Krumiri, each crafted from simple, high-quality ingredients: flour from his own farm, organic eggs, beet sugar, and Madagascar vanilla. He has even ventured into savory Krumiri, offering unexpected flavors like tomato and oregano, or Parmesan, demonstrating a flair for culinary innovation.
The Unexpected Descent into Sporting History
While the Krumireria upstairs delights the palate, the true curiosity lies just beneath. A descent down ancient stone stairs, under graceful arched ceilings, transports visitors from a world of delectable pastries to an unexpected realm: the history of Casale Calcio. This is not merely a team, but a phoenix, a club that, against all odds, achieved the unimaginable, winning the Italian championship (Scudetto) in the 1913/1914 season—a singular, incredible triumph in their long, often tumultuous, history.
Casale Calcio`s journey has been marked by both glory and hardship, enduring multiple bankruptcies and name changes. Yet, through it all, the club has never lost its most fervent supporters. Augusto Racca, a devoted fan himself, generously decided to host the club’s museum within his establishment. This initiative was born from the tireless efforts of fellow loyalists: Massimo Ogliaro, Luca Trombin, and Andrea Marangon, whose hearts beat with the black-and-white stripes of Casale. These dedicated individuals have traversed countless miles, endured countless disappointments, and yet continue to instill the love for Casale Calcio in their children, even as they harbor affection for today`s grander clubs.
A Treasure Trove of Tenacity
The museum is a testament to their unwavering passion, painstakingly assembled through the continuous, often arduous, search for rare memorabilia. As one of the curators noted, “Finding Casale relics has been an endeavor.” The collection includes:
- An authentic black jersey adorned with the iconic five-pointed star, the club’s enduring emblem.
- Historical pennants, photographs, posters, and postcards that narrate the club’s journey.
- A display of cups and plaques, including one for the Coppa Italia Dilettanti won in 1999.
- A showcase featuring boots and a football from the last Casale team to play in Serie A, dating back to the mid-1930s.
- A giant photograph immortalizing the 1914 champions, a team that once conquered Italy.
The museum spans five rooms: a grand hall dedicated to the club`s comprehensive history, a room celebrating the unwavering fanbase, a surprising collection of jerseys from other major clubs, a section dedicated to the Italian national team, and even a room for volleyball—a nod to Luca Trombin`s personal connection to the sport, as his son now plays in Serie A volleyball.
While Casale Calcio currently navigates the lower amateur leagues, hoping for promotion, the spirit of its supporters remains unyielding. Their dedication is a stark contrast to the club`s historical struggles, a reminder that true loyalty transcends league standings. Augusto Racca himself extends this hospitality, offering his exquisite Krumiri as a welcome gesture, even to visiting referees – perhaps a subtle attempt to sweeten any on-field decisions.
A Fusion of Flavors and Fervor
The story of Casale Monferrato’s Krumireria and its unexpected football museum is more than just an entrepreneurial success or a historical homage. It is a vibrant illustration of how local identity can be preserved and celebrated through a creative blend of culinary heritage and passionate sports fandom. It reminds us that history isn`t just found in grand institutions, but in the intimate spaces where communities foster their memories, one biscuit, and one triumphant, unforgettable season at a time.