Long ago, in a grand Italian principality, there lived a young noblewoman named Zezolla, also known by the nickname Cenerentola. She was the cherished daughter of a wealthy prince, beloved by all who knew her gentle heart. After the death of her mother, her father remarried, and Zezolla initially welcomed her stepmother warmly, even persuading her father to bring the woman into their home. Yet, soon after the wedding, her stepmother revealed her true nature. She brought six daughters of her own, seized control of the household, and forced Zezolla into the kitchen, treating her like a servant. From a young lady of refinement, Zezolla was reduced to living among ashes and rags, earning her the name “Cinderella” among servants.
One day, as her father journeyed to Sardinia, he asked his daughters what gifts they desired. While her stepsisters demanded jewelry and fine clothes, Zezolla humbly requested only that her father greet the fairies of Sardinia and ask for a token from them. The fairies rewarded her with a small date palm tree, a golden spade, a golden bucket, and a silk scarf. Zezolla tended the tree with patience, tears, and love. In time, the tree grew tall and strong, and from it emerged a fairy ready to grant Zezolla’s wishes whenever she called.
When the king held a grand ball spanning three nights, Zezolla’s stepsisters attended in elaborate gowns, leaving her behind in the kitchen. Calling upon the magic of her date palm, she recited the spell: “My golden date palm, scoop for me with the golden spade, pour water with the golden bucket, and clothe me in the finest garments.” In an instant, she was transformed, adorned in magnificent dresses made of gold and precious stones. On the first two nights, she appeared as a mysterious princess, captivating the king before vanishing before anyone could identify her. On the third night, the king commanded his guards to keep hold of her. In her hurried escape, Zezolla left behind a single golden embroidered slipper, the pianella, intricate and unique.
The king launched a kingdom-wide search to find the woman whose foot fit the slipper perfectly, declaring, “If the foundation of the shoe is so exquisite, surely the lady it belongs to is a marvel in her entirety.” Every woman tried, including her six stepsisters, yet none could wear it. When Zezolla finally tried, the slipper fit as though it had been made for her alone, perfectly embracing her foot. Recognizing his princess, the king brought Zezolla to the palace and crowned her queen. The stepsisters and cruel stepmother were left in anger and humiliation, yet justice had prevailed.
Unlike many other versions of the Cinderella tale, the Italian story of Zezolla emphasizes patience, faithfulness, and respect for the magical forces that aid those of pure heart. Through her unwavering kindness and steadfast spirit, Zezolla rose above suffering, proving that goodness will shine through even when hidden among the ashes. Her tale is a timeless reminder that justice and virtue ultimately prevail, and that true reward comes to those who remain gentle, patient, and true to themselves.