Not long ago we told you about Politano, a historic barber in our small town. Today we're telling you the story of another great character from Conflenti: Eugenio Marotta. Known to all as Mastru Geniu.After many years of honorable activity he closes the doors of his very crowded salon and we met him for a chat… 1 m away distance obviously!
Dear Mastru Geniu, when and where did your passion for this profession come from?
I followed in the footsteps of my cousin, Franco Marotta. Three years older than me, he had taken this path. I started with politanI was about 15 years old. A few years later, following Franco, I moved to Turin. And there I began attending the courses that allowed me to learn this trade.
And then, when did you return to Conflenti?
Let's say I stayed in Turin until I was 27. I used to come to Conflenti during the summer months, and Franco and I rented a place where, during the holidays, we worked together as hairdressers. My cousin then took a different path. I, however, continued and in 1977 I moved here permanently. I started my business in a place on Via Marconi.
Do you remember the day you opened the doors of your shop on Via Garibaldi?
Yes, I was very excited. It was in 1994, the first few days of September.
Your living room overlooks one of the busiest squares in town. You've seen it all. Any particular anecdotes you'd like to share?
The legendary Piazza Pontano! Well, honestly, I don't know where to begin. And thinking about it makes me nostalgic for times gone by here.
How many heads did you go through?
Pfff, hard to say. In addition to the Conflenti, there were many customers from neighboring countries.
Why did you decide to keep the business going after you retired?
Because for me, it was basically a pastime. The people of Conflenti know this. I'm a rather whimsical person, I'm open to jokes, and I enjoy spending time with people. And here, I never missed a chat with passersby!
Has the Coronavirus affected your choice of tool storage?
Let's say yes. Coronavirus was the straw that broke the camel's back. We've reached a point where maintaining the business is no longer manageable. The two months spent at home have certainly helped me get used to life as a retired person. So I've decided to do so.
How do you feel about closing after all these years?
A long regret but there was no alternative.
For everyone you will continue to be Mastru Geniu, but what will you do now?
Everyone knows my obsession with the countryside. But not as a farmer, but as a nature lover. I'll try to enjoy a well-deserved rest, as well as all the friendships I've cultivated over these long years of work.
