Naples, perhaps Italy's most superstitious city, will be taking more than a pinch of salt when it hosts the world's first global salt fair next May.
As well as pavilions where more than 350 salt producers will show their wares, the event will explore the "psychological, magical and philosophical role of salt down through the ages, and even today," said organiser Fabio Fassone.
Tour companies will also offer trips along the world's great salt routes and to some of the sites of the ancient world's biggest salt mines.
Among the side shows will be concerts by the Viennese Vegetable Orchestra, an ensemble that plays entirely edible instruments.
