Weekly Dose of Italian Culture #13
Welcome to the 13th edition of Weekly Dose of Italian Culture!
Italian Movie of the Week
Directed by Ermanno Olmi, Il Posto (The Sound of Trumpets, 1961) is a poignant film that explores the struggles of a young man moving to Milan to enter the corporate world in post-war Italy, only to remain disillusioned by the individualistic nature of his new environment.
Italian Song of the Week
This week’s Italian song is the romantic A te by Jovanotti.
Famous Italian of the Week
This week’s famous Italian is Artemisia Gentileschi, a Baroque painter known for her powerful and dramatic works, often depicting strong women.
For a long time, before her remarkable talents were given the recognition they deserved, she was primarily famous as the victim of rape by fellow artist Agostino Tassi. The ordeal was followed by a lengthy trial during which she was subjected to torture.
Italian City of the Week
Ravenna is renowned for its Byzantine mosaics and is home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The city offers a rich tapestry of history and art. Visitors can explore magnificent basilicas adorned with ancient mosaics, such as the Basilica of San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia. Ravenna's well-preserved monuments provide a unique glimpse into early Christian and Byzantine culture.
Italian Landmark of the Week
Located near Barletta, Castel del Monte is a mysterious octagonal castle built by Emperor Frederick II in Apulia, blending elements of Gothic, Islamic, and Romanesque architecture. A truly unique sight.
Geography Fact of the Week
The stunning Dolomites, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are known for their dramatic pink hues at sunset. This pink/reddish glow phenomenon is known as enrosadira.
History Fact of the Week
The city of Ravenna holds a unique place in history as it served as the capital of the Western Roman Empire during the 5th century. Nestled in northeastern Italy, Ravenna became a political and cultural hub at a time when the empire was facing immense challenges and decline thanks to its strategic location with access to both land and sea. This period also marked the beginning of Ravenna's transformation into a center of art and architecture.
Italian Dish of the Week
In the Marche region (where I spent my teenage years), it is quite common to serve Vincisgrassi during the holiday season. Vincisgrassi is a luxurious type of lasagna often layered with rich beef and chicken liver ragù. Many variations include béchamel and mozzarella as well. A simply delicious dish, that’s even better reheated the next day.
Italian Proverb of the Week
Chi va piano, va sano e va lontano.
(Who goes slowly, goes healthy and goes far.)
This is equivalent to the English, Slow and steady wins the race.
Italian Custom of the Week
Buone Feste means Happy Holidays but it’s idiomatic in Italy to group Christmas and New Year in a single expression. That is, Buon Natale e felice anno nuovo! (Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!) To this, you can idiomatically reply, A te e famiglia. (To you and your family.)
I hope you enjoyed this 13th edition of Weekly Dose of Italian Culture. Buon Natale e felice anno nuovo!
Grazie, Antonio! That octagonal castle really intrigues me. Buon Natale e felice anno nuovo! :)
These post are excellent. A fine way to learn about Italy without being overwhelmed. Thank you.