Under the moderation of Prof. Diana Kastrati, the first session of the “Arbëresh Book Days” was opened. The director of the Center for Arbëresh Studies and Publications, Diana Kastrati, introduced the special guest at the event, anthropologist Mario Bolognari.

Prof. Bolognari delivered a *lectio magistralis* titled “Life, Death, Resurrection: The Symbolism and Rituality of the Arbëresh Women’s Costume.” In his presentation, he discussed the dynamics of migration in Italy and its impact on the Arbëresh community, which at times appeared to be on the verge of disappearance.

He addressed the challenges faced by the Arbëresh communities throughout his academic career, beginning in 1972 when he was invited to the south of Italy. There, he realized that the traditional Arbëresh language was heading toward silence, which inspired his book *The Silence of Tradition* (1978).

Prof. Bolognari also provided an overview of political developments and the progress of legislation, along with the questions raised by Law 482/1999. His presentation elaborated on the functions of clothing during different life stages, from birth to death, throughout the entire human life cycle.

Specifically, he focused on the functions of Arbëresh clothing during various life phases and the ad hoc conceptualization of attire for these stages, extending beyond life to accompany Arbëresh women in the afterlife. The lecture concluded with a Q&A session directed at Prof. Bolognari, fostering discussions and debates on the presented topic.

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