Small Dose of Italian Culture #36
Welcome to the 36th edition of Small Dose of Italian Culture!
if you haven’t yet, make sure you sign up for my new Italian practice site: Linguetto. Practice a little each day and you'll be surprised by how much Italian you pick up over time.
🎬 Italian Media
Vita da Carlo is an entertaining Italian comedy TV series created by and starring Carlo Verdone, one of Italy's most beloved comic actors and filmmakers. The show premiered in 2021 and offers a semi-autobiographical, self-aware look at Verdone's life and career, mixing reality with fiction as he navigates the entertainment industry, family relationships, and the challenges of aging.
🎵 Italian Song
Francesco De Gregori is a beloved Italian singer-songwriter, famous for his poetic lyrics and influential role in Italian music. His song "Santa Lucia" is a poetic ballad just shy of a prayer to the Saint.
🎭 Famous Italian
Ornella Vanoni was a renowned Italian singer with a career spanning several decades, remaining relevant up until her last days. She recently passed away at the age of 91, leaving many Italians mourning her loss and her unmistakable voice.
🏞️ Italian Landmark
If you’re ever in Naples, you should visit the Catacombs of San Gennaro. (San Gennaro being the patron saint of the city.)
These are underground burial sites that date back to early Christianity and are notable for their historical and religious significance. They offer a glimpse into early Christian practices and art.
Keep in mind that access to certain parts may be limited or require guided tours, so it’s a good idea to check ahead before visiting.
🍝 Italian Dish
Torrone is a traditional Italian nougat that is an absolute staple during the Christmas season in Italy and nearby countries. It is typically made from honey, sugar, and egg whites, with toasted almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios. Chocolate hazelnut versions are quite popular too.
This sweet treat has ancient origins, with some historians tracing it back to the Arab world, from where it spread throughout the Mediterranean.
The town of Cremona in Lombardy is particularly famous for its torrone production and claims a long-standing tradition dating back to the 15th century.
🗣️ Italian Proverb
A caval donato non si guarda in bocca.
(You don’t look a gift horse in the mouth.)
When you receive something as a gift, you should not criticize it or look for flaws. The value lies in the generosity of the giver, not in whether the gift is perfect.
👀 Italian Curiosity
The United Nations cultural organization UNESCO has given Italian cooking special recognition as cultural heritage. This recognition extends to the whole tradition of Italian cooking and the culture around food, not just the food itself.
Italians received the news with amusement and pride, but there were also debates about the extensive nature of the award and even discussions on whether some foods (e.g., the canederli from Alto Adige) are actually Italian.
I hope you enjoyed the 36th edition of Small Dose of Italian Culture.
Buone feste e a presto!