We share a vivid picture of life in Italy in our first-ever book. Its a tradition that helps form a solid foundation from which families and societies emerge. This is just a sample of the many unique Italian traditions and superstitions. In Neapolitan, it is called curniciello or variants thereof. Sicilian Curses and Other Superstitions - The Proud Italian Even in those cases, I can guarantee you, that there is a level 17. So, those in more traditional lines of work in Italy may still follow this particular superstition more carefully than others. [4][5], The cornicello is also linked to Greek and Roman mythology. When modern medicinal remedies fail, Italian superstition invites a mix of ancient techniques and folk tradition that borders on witchcraft. When composed making use of Arabic numerals, 17 is still considered unfortunate because it appears like a guy hanging from a gallows. This superstition is linked to an old belief that since a mirror reflects ones own image, it could therefore also trap their soul. The number 13 is lucky in Italy, especially when gambling. A loaf of bread must always be placed face up, or else bad luck will come. Remember #5 above? In Arabic, it is a man in the gallows, and in Roman, it spells out . While in some countries Friday the 13th is considered a bad omen, Italy has its own date that you should be fearful of, its Friday the 17th. Every region seems to have its version of the Wickedness Eye, however, some take it more seriously than . Growing up, you may not have been allowed to have a pet bird in your house. According to Italian superstition, you should never wish someone buon compleanno or tanti auguri (this is how Italians say for happy birthday), before their actual birthday. If you want to protect yourself against the evil-eye, carry a corincello charm around with you at all times. One test for the Malocchio is done by dropping olive oil in a plate of water. When your nose itches, its either pugni o baci, punches or kisses. It is a superstition most common in East Asian nations. It is impolite to turn the bread up-side-down or to stick a knife into a loaf of bread. Thats why, if youre taking a trip to Italy and dont want to be cursed by the malocchio (evil eye), there are a few common Italian superstitions that you need to know or at least be aware of! The following are some of the good luck symbols in Italy worth noting. Although 13 is considered fortunate, taking a seat to a table with 12 others is a sick prophecy. Each culture has its own unique traditions and customs when it comes to matrimony. This article highlights all you need to know about Italian wedding Traditions. in other countries.
When you're feeling under the weather, chances are you want to take a nice hot bath to soothe your pain. Mano means "hand" and corno means "horn. Walk around it, in front of it, behind it, but not under. This conception might have started as a trick to motivate individuals to handle formerly expensive goods with care. Here are 15 Italian superstitions that you need to know or at least be aware of. If you want to know more about Italy: Your email address will not be published. This gesture can also be used to ward off the Evil Eye (pointing fingers down). At the Last Dinner Jesus ate with his 12 adherents before, among them, Judas Iscariot betrayed him. Another Italian superstitions has to do with sweeps and feet: a girl aiming at finding a husband needs to be far from anyone who is sweeping the floor. The number 13 may be very unlucky in American culture, but it's actually not seen as one of the Sicilian superstitions in Italy. One of the oldest Sicilian curses was found on a tablet that appeared in Athens. 17 Weird Italian Superstitions Italians ACTUALLY Live By. It is believed that rain symbolizes fertility and cleansing. Its believed that black cats are a symbol of witchcraft and the devil. If you do, you will never be swept off your feet and get married. Some say the superstition has a Christian origin from the Scriptures story where Peter rejected that he recognized Jesus three times before the cock crowed. The Evil Eye is of the most ancient superstitions in Italy. See how our customers love this feature here. Tacca ferro means touch iron. Just like the phrase, knock on wood, the Italian version of this is to knock on iron.. There are a lot of superstitions, and many of us have even a personal one: I think for example about those people who always wear the same piece of clothing whenever they have to take a test - such as a t-shirt, socks or trousers, or a certain accessory, such as a bracelet, a ring or a necklace. Italians intend to avoid a comparable switching of the tables. The horned god Faunus was known for his wild nature and interest in fertility. Some of us grew up that it is a sign of good luck if a black cat crosses your path. [3] The evil eye is believed to harm nursing mothers and their babies, bearing fruit trees, milking animals, and the sperm of men - the forces of generation. Copyright - Our Italian Journey Blog 2015, 15 Italian Superstitions You Need to Know, So there you have it, fifteen Italian superstitions you need to know. Eating the core of a pineapple can increase blood flow to your womb and encourage a healthy uterine lining - essential for increasing your chances of implantation. Watch where you put your left foot! Common traditional Italian cuisines include but are not limited to Bruschetta, Hot Berry Tarts, Chicken dish, and Ravioli. This conception may have begun as a trick to motivate people to handle the previously expensive goods with care. Fertility Rate. It also signifies fertility and prosperity for the newly married couples. The Italian culture has many beliefs passed down from generation to generation and even though many of them may seem absurd to an outsider, they are taken more or less seriously by natives! Tuesday, on the other hand, was already unlucky among the Romans because it was dedicated to Mars, the God of war and discord. Never raise a toast with a glass full of water as it is bad luck. An owl sighting is a vision of the spirits of the dead. The presence of a bird in the house (either as a pet dog or accidentally) brings rotten luck. Thats because they dont want the umbrella to accidentally pop open inside the house! Our first book, "Our Italian Journey," was written during our year in Italy experiencing the seducing charm of the country. This wards off any bad luck. Black cats. Registrations are now open to join Intrepid Italian, my new series of online video courses that use my unique 80/20 method. We'd love to have you along for the ride! A bottle of homemade wine and Sambuca are often served as evening drinks. I'm the 'guide' behind The Intrepid Guide, an Award-Winning site for travellers and language learners with thousands of readers, 1,600+ students, and a popular newsletter. Chart and table of the Italy fertility rate from 1950 to 2023. In Italy, however, you should say Tocca ferro! and touch some iron instead! Because its connected to the Goddess of Fertility, it shows abundance and luck, especially pertaining to gambling. 14 Italian Superstitions: Hats, Cats and Evil Eyes It is assumed the number brings success as well as a plentiful life. While lentils might not look like a typical Italian dish, they carry a powerful meaning! When it comes to toasting, there are several things that can cause you to have bad luck. Something they appear to have in common is that the Evil Eye is brought on by jealousy and envy. According to Italian superstition, you should never raise a toast with a glass full of water, as it is considered bad luck. The 14 Most Important Italian Wedding Traditions - Yeah Weddings From The Evil Eye to the number 17, understanding and partaking in this way of life could change the way you look at the world. Today a visitor may be surprised at which superstitions are taken seriously and which are taken with a grain of salt, so to speak. medianet_width = "600";
According to tradition, when priests came to visit the sick on their deathbed to receive their final confessions, they would remove their hat and set it on the bed so that they could put on the vestments. Also, dont forget to wear red undergarments, as this too will bring you luck in the coming year. As a reply, avoid saying 'prego' but say 'crepi' instead, which means 'may the wolf die'. The first dance, Tarantella couple dance, and the legendary chicken dance represent a crucial part of the Italian traditions. See how our customers love this feature here. Italian Life Rules - Superstitions, Familiar and Strange Breaking a mirror will result in seven years of bad luck. Italians believe that these evil contraptions blow dangerously cold air in your face, leading to colpo dari or a punch of air.. Crossing silverware on the table foretells strife. The blessing or exorcism of a new house in Italy is still practiced, especially when it comes to newlyweds. Photography and infographics cannot be used without permission.Privacy Policy | Cookie Policy | Terms and Conditions, Language Learning for Travellers & Heritage Learners. Make sure to follow some important rules or you might attract some misfortune! Getting off on the wrong foot. Red underwear and smashed plates: Six strange Italian New Year Some say that the maid of honor and best man should be . Among the ancient Romans, sprinkling salt on the ruins of conquered cities meant preventing them from flourishing again (as salt makes the soil infertile). Want my "9 Steps to Reach Fluency Faster" playbook? Dont start a journey, new project or get married on a Friday or a Tuesday. You will never find an Italian putting his or her hat down on a bed. For example, weddings are best held on Sundays this day of the week brings luck. If someone brushes over your feet by accident, then youre destined to be single for the rest of your life. Common traditional Italian cuisines include but are not limited to. To celebrate the start of the wedding season, we wanted to highlight some dreamy Italian wedding traditions and some interesting superstitions. Learn the local language with my unique 80/20 method. A loaf of bread must always be placed on a table, facing up according to Italian traditions. Same for the birthday celebrations: very rarely do people in Italy organize their birthday party in advance unless its the night before, which means youll wait until midnight to get together with your friends! (Drop a pen (penn a) and Pamela is thinking of you.). For the Tasmanian mountain, see, "Perch si crede che il corno porti fortuna? Every culture has its own set of New Years traditions. Weve done the research! 2013/9 Policy Brief No. . Tetraphobia - Wikipedia So when a mirror breaks, it breaks you as well. After the wedding, the bride and groom will often accept gifts and give out some wedding favors to thank those who attended. The rarity and the consequently high cost of salt gave rise to a number of beliefs in the ancient world. Putting a hat on a bed is considered unlucky because its associated with death. These are; health, wealth, happiness, fertility, and long life- in no particular order. A bottle of homemade wine and Sambuca are often served as evening drinks. Why not stay at our Albergo Miramonti? It is, after all, representative of new life. If knives are on your registry, just give the gift giver a penny . Start learning here! Throwing it on the floor or on the table was unlucky because you had to buy it again. Southern Italians, Sardinians and Sicilians, mostly of the older generation, still mix folk medicine and ancient superstitions. Copyright The Intrepid Guide Ltd 2023. Tuscan Travelers Tales Happy New Year in Florence, Francescas Footprints A Student Finally Learns Something Important. Like what you see? Vediamole insieme! This symbol can still be found nowadays as a lucky charm that Italians carry around to protect themselves. Which one do you think is the weirdest? Do not put a hat on a bed. If it happens, however, toss a bit of salt over each shoulder or rub a drop of oil behind each ear. Understanding Sicilian curses and omens is not just a way to learn about what a culture believes or believed in. 2023 The Proud Italian > Italian-American Heritage Blog, Grate Expectations: The Best Parmesan Cheese Graters of the Year. These are; health, wealth, happiness, fertility, and long life- in no particular order. A new broom is a common first gift to sweep away evil spirits. December 2013 No. Meeting and Greeting. The ferro in the saying stands for ferro di cavallo (horseshoe) which in the past was believed to ward off the devil, witches, and evil spirits. Italians aim to avoid a similar turning of the tables. Speaking of which, Northern superstitions regarding weddings are a little more earthly: in Veneto, the future . Most brides will raise the amount during the wedding ceremony. You will be emailed when there are new posts on Tuscan Traveler. According to tradition, when priestsvisited the dying to give them their last rights, theywould remove their hat and put it on the bed. The number of sugared almonds should be odd. Or what are some customs and traditions that define a typical Italian wedding? Silver, of which it is also often made, is sacred to Luna, goddess of the moon. Please leave a comment if you know of one that needs to be added to the list. is the Italian word used to describe a wedding favor. The malocchio (evil eye) is the Italian superstition that even just a look, especially if caused by jealousy and envy, can bring harm to those it is aimed at. According to Italian traditions, its customary to eat lentils after the clock strikes 12:00. Today a site visitor might be shocked at which superstitious notions are taken seriously and which are taken with a grain of salt, so to speak. If youre single and you see someone sweeping the floor, make a run for it. The fear that the eye could carry negative influences has been associated from time to time over the centuries with cross-eyed people, gypsies, red-haired people, men who wore dark glasses, etc., often creating discrimination and racist prejudices. 10 taly was one of the first countries in the world to reach "lowest-low" fertility levels, with a total fertility rate (TFR) of I break everything down in such a way that it clicks and just makes sense. Want to get married? Join us in our travels as we share places to visit, travel tips, recipes, and more. Knives as Wedding Gifts. Its considered rude for anyone other than the bride to wear white. Older Sicilians can recall ancient rites, involving making dolls to curse an enemy, amulets to protect themselves from evil, or, on the more positive side, love potions to encourage a slow suitor. In the present day, however, umbrellas were often used to plug holes in the houses of poor people, hence the belief that opening them will bring a good deal of financial misfortune. In Italy, this is a sign of good luck will come your way. Due to their association with witchcraft, black cats are often seen as bad luck by many cultures around the world. Malocchio is a curse cast due to someone's envy or jealousy against you, causing bad luck. If you give a gift of a new wallet, always put at least a coin in it. This term carried a negative meaning and it indicated the unreasonable and excessive fear of the gods as opposed to the good and reasonable worship, the religio. The bread one is not precise. Pineapple core can be quite tough so if you want to make it . On the other hand, its thought about good luck if you take place to hear a cat sneeze. 36 superstitions about periods from around the world medianet_crid = "318442627";
Before you take the first sip after the toast, dont forget to tap the bottom of your glass on the table! Never trim toe as well as fingernails on Thursday. . We have all seen Italians greet each other with kisses on both cheeks. A sure sign of knowing whether or not you have the curse is to drop olive oil in a bowl of water. The number 17 is considered unlucky. Youll go from a shy, confused beginner to a proficient and confident intermediate speaker, with me as your trusty guide. What was your superstition growing up that your mother or grandmother told you? It is said that Judas Iscariot, the one who betrayed Jesus, was the 13th man to sit at the table. For example, never raise a glass thats full of water and dont cross arms with the person next to you when you clink glasses. Some of them include: jinxing gestures (like le corna the horns find out more about this in my guide to Italian gestures), carrying lucky charms and amulets like the cornetto, scratching genitalia, keeping red chilli peppers at your doorstep, and saying in bocca al lupo to wish someone good luck. All rights reserved. This idea originated from the belief that horseshoes can deflect evil spirits - remember 'malocchio?'. Green for luck: Italian brides used to wear green on the night before the wedding, which symbolizes both good luck and fertility. With Title Near, Naples Shed Superstition and Starts to Believe - The The Roman numeral for 17 is XVII, but when rearranged to look like VIXI it means I have lived, a symbol thats placed on ancient tombstones and associated with death. Nothing is worth taking that chance! Lentils resemble the shape of a 'coin' and therefore serves as a reminder of money. The number is associated with the Goddess of Fertility, which means that the number thirteen can bring an abundant and fulfilled life - in other words - it is extremely lucky! There is a popular Italian proverb that says: Di Venere o di Marte non si sposa e non si parte, n si d principio allarte (by Venus or Mars, one neither marries nor departs, nor does one begin art). 5) The number 17. February 11, 2021 V B Blog, News. Intrepid Italian was created with YOU in mind. If the oil forms one large drop in the middle of the plate its a sure sign of the Evil Eye, but after chanting the right prayers that usually only women are allowed to know, the oil may break up into tiny droplets and spread out, thus breaking the curse of the Evil Eye. (See you there!). According to Italian superstitions, holding a wedding on Friday brings bad luck. Varying dance etiquettes accompany most Italian wedding songs. Sprinkled salt in the corners of the house will purify it. Similar to how you might tell someone' break a leg' in English, Italians have their own way of wishing luck. In fact, it's actually a lucky number. This is a two-way process thats not necessarily dependent on the other. Just as some Western airlines avoid including the 13th row on planes, you might find number 17 omitted in Italian planes, street numbering, hotel floors and so on, so . Even if you don't believe in the superstition, lentils are super healthy legumes that provide a lot of protein and fibre into your system. On the other hand, the number seventeen is seen as bad luck. 5. I know. Another Italian tradition is to eat lentils (lenticchie, in Italian) on New Years Eve and January 1st. How do you get rid of them? Although 13 is considered lucky, sitting down to a table with 12 others is an ill omen. To many countries all over the world, the number thirteen is considered as bad luck. So, without further ado, here they are: Some Italians believe that spilling olive oil will bring bad luck. In addition to being worn as jewelry, cornicelli are sometimes hung from the rearview mirrors of cars (based on the older custom of using them to protect draft horses), and in houses. As tradition states, the more lentils you eat, the more wealthy you will become! Generally, when the ill were on their deathbeds a clergyman would pertain to get their final confessions. I use my working knowledge of the English language to help you get into the Italian mindset so you can avoid the common pitfalls and errors English speakers make because I made them once too! In villages in Italy, there were often designated people made to perform the rituals. Grate Expectations: The Best Parmesan Cheese Graters of the Year. Maybe youre wondering, what is the most important tradition in Italy? STARTING THE YEAR WITH LENTILS. Did you know that if you are walking outside and a pigeon poops on your head, it is a sign of good luck in Italy? As a native English speaker who learned Italian as an adult, I know what its like to feel hopeless and lack the confidence to speak. Surprisingly, both beliefs are held in Italyseeing a black cat is bad karma, but if it sneezes, good fortune is on its way. A wedding is a critical piece of that culture. Tuscan Traveler is collecting more Italian superstitions. You are offering no explanation. [4] The phallic shape and red color is also a reference to Priapus, a male fertility god. 1. This post contains affiliate links which means that we may receive a small commission if you make a purchase through a link at no additional cost to you. Whether you believe it to be fashion and nonsense, or a way to save yourself from a curse, The Devils Horn is an interesting thing to keep in mind for the future. Black cats are thought to be a sign of bad luck. Discover the Top Store-Bought Soy Sauces (Our Reviews), Sweeten Your Life: The Best Honey to Buy (Brands), Spruce Your Deserts With Our 4 Best Lemon Curd Reviews. Every region seems to have its version of the Wickedness Eye, however, some take it more seriously than others. 8. There are plenty of strange Italian superstitions, irrational beliefs and practices that all aim to ward off bad luck. You can't drink cold beverages because they will give you cramps. The Intrepid Guide contains affiliate links. Its an imprint of a history that defines our past. If the mirror cracks by itself, on the other hand, it means that the owner may lose a close friend. The groom will often carry a small piece of iron in his pocket to fend off evil spirits. A hat on the bed is associated with eternal rest and death! These pieces are then offered for sale to the wedding guests. Superstition in Italy says if you are single you should not sit at the corner of a table in Italy because it means you will not marry. Wolves are very significant in Italian culture, to find out more, read our blog What is an Italian Wolf?. The horned god Faunus was known for his wild nature and interest in fertility. Curious about olive oil? As mentioned before, the number 13 is extremely lucky. Get her free guide 9 reasons youre not fluentYET & how to fix it! The amulet is also sometimes referred to as the Italian horn. Which of these superstitions surprised you the most? To prevent a downturn of fortune people practice tocca ferro and touch iron if they think something bad is going to occur. The first use of the Latinsuperstitiois found in the writing of the historians Livy and Ovid (1st century BC).
When you're feeling under the weather, chances are you want to take a nice hot bath to soothe your pain. Mano means "hand" and corno means "horn. Walk around it, in front of it, behind it, but not under. This conception might have started as a trick to motivate individuals to handle formerly expensive goods with care. Here are 15 Italian superstitions that you need to know or at least be aware of. If you want to know more about Italy: Your email address will not be published. This gesture can also be used to ward off the Evil Eye (pointing fingers down). At the Last Dinner Jesus ate with his 12 adherents before, among them, Judas Iscariot betrayed him. Another Italian superstitions has to do with sweeps and feet: a girl aiming at finding a husband needs to be far from anyone who is sweeping the floor. The number 13 may be very unlucky in American culture, but it's actually not seen as one of the Sicilian superstitions in Italy. One of the oldest Sicilian curses was found on a tablet that appeared in Athens. 17 Weird Italian Superstitions Italians ACTUALLY Live By. It is believed that rain symbolizes fertility and cleansing. Its believed that black cats are a symbol of witchcraft and the devil. If you do, you will never be swept off your feet and get married. Some say the superstition has a Christian origin from the Scriptures story where Peter rejected that he recognized Jesus three times before the cock crowed. The Evil Eye is of the most ancient superstitions in Italy. See how our customers love this feature here. Tacca ferro means touch iron. Just like the phrase, knock on wood, the Italian version of this is to knock on iron.. There are a lot of superstitions, and many of us have even a personal one: I think for example about those people who always wear the same piece of clothing whenever they have to take a test - such as a t-shirt, socks or trousers, or a certain accessory, such as a bracelet, a ring or a necklace. Italians intend to avoid a comparable switching of the tables. The horned god Faunus was known for his wild nature and interest in fertility. Some of us grew up that it is a sign of good luck if a black cat crosses your path. [3] The evil eye is believed to harm nursing mothers and their babies, bearing fruit trees, milking animals, and the sperm of men - the forces of generation. Copyright - Our Italian Journey Blog 2015, 15 Italian Superstitions You Need to Know, So there you have it, fifteen Italian superstitions you need to know. Eating the core of a pineapple can increase blood flow to your womb and encourage a healthy uterine lining - essential for increasing your chances of implantation. Watch where you put your left foot! Common traditional Italian cuisines include but are not limited to Bruschetta, Hot Berry Tarts, Chicken dish, and Ravioli. This conception may have begun as a trick to motivate people to handle the previously expensive goods with care. Fertility Rate. It also signifies fertility and prosperity for the newly married couples. The Italian culture has many beliefs passed down from generation to generation and even though many of them may seem absurd to an outsider, they are taken more or less seriously by natives! Tuesday, on the other hand, was already unlucky among the Romans because it was dedicated to Mars, the God of war and discord. Never raise a toast with a glass full of water as it is bad luck. An owl sighting is a vision of the spirits of the dead. The presence of a bird in the house (either as a pet dog or accidentally) brings rotten luck. Thats because they dont want the umbrella to accidentally pop open inside the house! Our first book, "Our Italian Journey," was written during our year in Italy experiencing the seducing charm of the country. This wards off any bad luck. Black cats. Registrations are now open to join Intrepid Italian, my new series of online video courses that use my unique 80/20 method. We'd love to have you along for the ride! A bottle of homemade wine and Sambuca are often served as evening drinks. I'm the 'guide' behind The Intrepid Guide, an Award-Winning site for travellers and language learners with thousands of readers, 1,600+ students, and a popular newsletter. Chart and table of the Italy fertility rate from 1950 to 2023. In Italy, however, you should say Tocca ferro! and touch some iron instead! Because its connected to the Goddess of Fertility, it shows abundance and luck, especially pertaining to gambling. 14 Italian Superstitions: Hats, Cats and Evil Eyes It is assumed the number brings success as well as a plentiful life. While lentils might not look like a typical Italian dish, they carry a powerful meaning! When it comes to toasting, there are several things that can cause you to have bad luck. Something they appear to have in common is that the Evil Eye is brought on by jealousy and envy. According to Italian superstition, you should never raise a toast with a glass full of water, as it is considered bad luck. The 14 Most Important Italian Wedding Traditions - Yeah Weddings From The Evil Eye to the number 17, understanding and partaking in this way of life could change the way you look at the world. Today a visitor may be surprised at which superstitions are taken seriously and which are taken with a grain of salt, so to speak. medianet_width = "600";
According to tradition, when priests came to visit the sick on their deathbed to receive their final confessions, they would remove their hat and set it on the bed so that they could put on the vestments. Also, dont forget to wear red undergarments, as this too will bring you luck in the coming year. As a reply, avoid saying 'prego' but say 'crepi' instead, which means 'may the wolf die'. The first dance, Tarantella couple dance, and the legendary chicken dance represent a crucial part of the Italian traditions. See how our customers love this feature here. Italian Life Rules - Superstitions, Familiar and Strange Breaking a mirror will result in seven years of bad luck. Italians believe that these evil contraptions blow dangerously cold air in your face, leading to colpo dari or a punch of air.. Crossing silverware on the table foretells strife. The blessing or exorcism of a new house in Italy is still practiced, especially when it comes to newlyweds. Photography and infographics cannot be used without permission.Privacy Policy | Cookie Policy | Terms and Conditions, Language Learning for Travellers & Heritage Learners. Make sure to follow some important rules or you might attract some misfortune! Getting off on the wrong foot. Red underwear and smashed plates: Six strange Italian New Year Some say that the maid of honor and best man should be . Among the ancient Romans, sprinkling salt on the ruins of conquered cities meant preventing them from flourishing again (as salt makes the soil infertile). Want my "9 Steps to Reach Fluency Faster" playbook? Dont start a journey, new project or get married on a Friday or a Tuesday. You will never find an Italian putting his or her hat down on a bed. For example, weddings are best held on Sundays this day of the week brings luck. If someone brushes over your feet by accident, then youre destined to be single for the rest of your life. Common traditional Italian cuisines include but are not limited to. To celebrate the start of the wedding season, we wanted to highlight some dreamy Italian wedding traditions and some interesting superstitions. Learn the local language with my unique 80/20 method. A loaf of bread must always be placed on a table, facing up according to Italian traditions. Same for the birthday celebrations: very rarely do people in Italy organize their birthday party in advance unless its the night before, which means youll wait until midnight to get together with your friends! (Drop a pen (penn a) and Pamela is thinking of you.). For the Tasmanian mountain, see, "Perch si crede che il corno porti fortuna? Every culture has its own set of New Years traditions. Weve done the research! 2013/9 Policy Brief No. . Tetraphobia - Wikipedia So when a mirror breaks, it breaks you as well. After the wedding, the bride and groom will often accept gifts and give out some wedding favors to thank those who attended. The rarity and the consequently high cost of salt gave rise to a number of beliefs in the ancient world. Putting a hat on a bed is considered unlucky because its associated with death. These are; health, wealth, happiness, fertility, and long life- in no particular order. A bottle of homemade wine and Sambuca are often served as evening drinks. Why not stay at our Albergo Miramonti? It is, after all, representative of new life. If knives are on your registry, just give the gift giver a penny . Start learning here! Throwing it on the floor or on the table was unlucky because you had to buy it again. Southern Italians, Sardinians and Sicilians, mostly of the older generation, still mix folk medicine and ancient superstitions. Copyright The Intrepid Guide Ltd 2023. Tuscan Travelers Tales Happy New Year in Florence, Francescas Footprints A Student Finally Learns Something Important. Like what you see? Vediamole insieme! This symbol can still be found nowadays as a lucky charm that Italians carry around to protect themselves. Which one do you think is the weirdest? Do not put a hat on a bed. If it happens, however, toss a bit of salt over each shoulder or rub a drop of oil behind each ear. Understanding Sicilian curses and omens is not just a way to learn about what a culture believes or believed in. 2023 The Proud Italian > Italian-American Heritage Blog, Grate Expectations: The Best Parmesan Cheese Graters of the Year. These are; health, wealth, happiness, fertility, and long life- in no particular order. A new broom is a common first gift to sweep away evil spirits. December 2013 No. Meeting and Greeting. The ferro in the saying stands for ferro di cavallo (horseshoe) which in the past was believed to ward off the devil, witches, and evil spirits. Italians aim to avoid a similar turning of the tables. Speaking of which, Northern superstitions regarding weddings are a little more earthly: in Veneto, the future . Most brides will raise the amount during the wedding ceremony. You will be emailed when there are new posts on Tuscan Traveler. According to tradition, when priestsvisited the dying to give them their last rights, theywould remove their hat and put it on the bed. The number of sugared almonds should be odd. Or what are some customs and traditions that define a typical Italian wedding? Silver, of which it is also often made, is sacred to Luna, goddess of the moon. Please leave a comment if you know of one that needs to be added to the list. is the Italian word used to describe a wedding favor. The malocchio (evil eye) is the Italian superstition that even just a look, especially if caused by jealousy and envy, can bring harm to those it is aimed at. According to Italian traditions, its customary to eat lentils after the clock strikes 12:00. Today a site visitor might be shocked at which superstitious notions are taken seriously and which are taken with a grain of salt, so to speak. If youre single and you see someone sweeping the floor, make a run for it. The fear that the eye could carry negative influences has been associated from time to time over the centuries with cross-eyed people, gypsies, red-haired people, men who wore dark glasses, etc., often creating discrimination and racist prejudices. 10 taly was one of the first countries in the world to reach "lowest-low" fertility levels, with a total fertility rate (TFR) of I break everything down in such a way that it clicks and just makes sense. Want to get married? Join us in our travels as we share places to visit, travel tips, recipes, and more. Knives as Wedding Gifts. Its considered rude for anyone other than the bride to wear white. Older Sicilians can recall ancient rites, involving making dolls to curse an enemy, amulets to protect themselves from evil, or, on the more positive side, love potions to encourage a slow suitor. In the present day, however, umbrellas were often used to plug holes in the houses of poor people, hence the belief that opening them will bring a good deal of financial misfortune. In Italy, this is a sign of good luck will come your way. Due to their association with witchcraft, black cats are often seen as bad luck by many cultures around the world. Malocchio is a curse cast due to someone's envy or jealousy against you, causing bad luck. If you give a gift of a new wallet, always put at least a coin in it. This term carried a negative meaning and it indicated the unreasonable and excessive fear of the gods as opposed to the good and reasonable worship, the religio. The bread one is not precise. Pineapple core can be quite tough so if you want to make it . On the other hand, its thought about good luck if you take place to hear a cat sneeze. 36 superstitions about periods from around the world medianet_crid = "318442627";
Before you take the first sip after the toast, dont forget to tap the bottom of your glass on the table! Never trim toe as well as fingernails on Thursday. . We have all seen Italians greet each other with kisses on both cheeks. A sure sign of knowing whether or not you have the curse is to drop olive oil in a bowl of water. The number 17 is considered unlucky. Youll go from a shy, confused beginner to a proficient and confident intermediate speaker, with me as your trusty guide. What was your superstition growing up that your mother or grandmother told you? It is said that Judas Iscariot, the one who betrayed Jesus, was the 13th man to sit at the table. For example, never raise a glass thats full of water and dont cross arms with the person next to you when you clink glasses. Some of them include: jinxing gestures (like le corna the horns find out more about this in my guide to Italian gestures), carrying lucky charms and amulets like the cornetto, scratching genitalia, keeping red chilli peppers at your doorstep, and saying in bocca al lupo to wish someone good luck. All rights reserved. This idea originated from the belief that horseshoes can deflect evil spirits - remember 'malocchio?'. Green for luck: Italian brides used to wear green on the night before the wedding, which symbolizes both good luck and fertility. With Title Near, Naples Shed Superstition and Starts to Believe - The The Roman numeral for 17 is XVII, but when rearranged to look like VIXI it means I have lived, a symbol thats placed on ancient tombstones and associated with death. Nothing is worth taking that chance! Lentils resemble the shape of a 'coin' and therefore serves as a reminder of money. The number is associated with the Goddess of Fertility, which means that the number thirteen can bring an abundant and fulfilled life - in other words - it is extremely lucky! There is a popular Italian proverb that says: Di Venere o di Marte non si sposa e non si parte, n si d principio allarte (by Venus or Mars, one neither marries nor departs, nor does one begin art). 5) The number 17. February 11, 2021 V B Blog, News. Intrepid Italian was created with YOU in mind. If the oil forms one large drop in the middle of the plate its a sure sign of the Evil Eye, but after chanting the right prayers that usually only women are allowed to know, the oil may break up into tiny droplets and spread out, thus breaking the curse of the Evil Eye. (See you there!). According to Italian superstitions, holding a wedding on Friday brings bad luck. Varying dance etiquettes accompany most Italian wedding songs. Sprinkled salt in the corners of the house will purify it. Similar to how you might tell someone' break a leg' in English, Italians have their own way of wishing luck. In fact, it's actually a lucky number. This is a two-way process thats not necessarily dependent on the other. Just as some Western airlines avoid including the 13th row on planes, you might find number 17 omitted in Italian planes, street numbering, hotel floors and so on, so . Even if you don't believe in the superstition, lentils are super healthy legumes that provide a lot of protein and fibre into your system. On the other hand, the number seventeen is seen as bad luck. 5. I know. Another Italian tradition is to eat lentils (lenticchie, in Italian) on New Years Eve and January 1st. How do you get rid of them? Although 13 is considered lucky, sitting down to a table with 12 others is an ill omen. To many countries all over the world, the number thirteen is considered as bad luck. So, without further ado, here they are: Some Italians believe that spilling olive oil will bring bad luck. In addition to being worn as jewelry, cornicelli are sometimes hung from the rearview mirrors of cars (based on the older custom of using them to protect draft horses), and in houses. As tradition states, the more lentils you eat, the more wealthy you will become! Generally, when the ill were on their deathbeds a clergyman would pertain to get their final confessions. I use my working knowledge of the English language to help you get into the Italian mindset so you can avoid the common pitfalls and errors English speakers make because I made them once too! In villages in Italy, there were often designated people made to perform the rituals. Grate Expectations: The Best Parmesan Cheese Graters of the Year. Maybe youre wondering, what is the most important tradition in Italy? STARTING THE YEAR WITH LENTILS. Did you know that if you are walking outside and a pigeon poops on your head, it is a sign of good luck in Italy? As a native English speaker who learned Italian as an adult, I know what its like to feel hopeless and lack the confidence to speak. Surprisingly, both beliefs are held in Italyseeing a black cat is bad karma, but if it sneezes, good fortune is on its way. A wedding is a critical piece of that culture. Tuscan Traveler is collecting more Italian superstitions. You are offering no explanation. [4] The phallic shape and red color is also a reference to Priapus, a male fertility god. 1. This post contains affiliate links which means that we may receive a small commission if you make a purchase through a link at no additional cost to you. Whether you believe it to be fashion and nonsense, or a way to save yourself from a curse, The Devils Horn is an interesting thing to keep in mind for the future. Black cats are thought to be a sign of bad luck. Discover the Top Store-Bought Soy Sauces (Our Reviews), Sweeten Your Life: The Best Honey to Buy (Brands), Spruce Your Deserts With Our 4 Best Lemon Curd Reviews. Every region seems to have its version of the Wickedness Eye, however, some take it more seriously than others. 8. There are plenty of strange Italian superstitions, irrational beliefs and practices that all aim to ward off bad luck. You can't drink cold beverages because they will give you cramps. The Intrepid Guide contains affiliate links. Its an imprint of a history that defines our past. If the mirror cracks by itself, on the other hand, it means that the owner may lose a close friend. The groom will often carry a small piece of iron in his pocket to fend off evil spirits. A hat on the bed is associated with eternal rest and death! These pieces are then offered for sale to the wedding guests. Superstition in Italy says if you are single you should not sit at the corner of a table in Italy because it means you will not marry. Wolves are very significant in Italian culture, to find out more, read our blog What is an Italian Wolf?. The horned god Faunus was known for his wild nature and interest in fertility. Curious about olive oil? As mentioned before, the number 13 is extremely lucky. Get her free guide 9 reasons youre not fluentYET & how to fix it! The amulet is also sometimes referred to as the Italian horn. Which of these superstitions surprised you the most? To prevent a downturn of fortune people practice tocca ferro and touch iron if they think something bad is going to occur. The first use of the Latinsuperstitiois found in the writing of the historians Livy and Ovid (1st century BC).