Weekly Dose of Italian Culture #16
Welcome to the 16th Edition of Weekly Dose of Italian Culture! A series that takes you on a journey through Italy and its culture.
Italian Movie of the Week
Incompreso (Misunderstood, 1966) is a drama about a widower and his two sons. After the passing of their mother, the older boy begins acting out. He feels misunderstood and is treated harshly, while the younger boy is coddled. It’s an emotionally difficult film to watch but holds significant cultural significance in Italy.
Italian Song of the Week
This week's song is Una lunga storia d’amore by Gino Paoli, a beautiful romantic ballad.
Famous Italian of the Week
Alfredo Rampi (1975–1981), simply known as Alfredino, was a young boy who tragically fell into a well near Frascati, Lazio. His fall prompted a massive rescue operation that was broadcast live for 18 hours straight on the RAI public television, capturing the attention of 21 million viewers (a significant portion of Italy’s population at the time.) Despite extensive efforts, Alfredino could not be saved, shocking the nation and sparking widespread speculation and debate.
In 2021, the story was revisited in Alfredino – Una storia italiana, a four-episode fiction mini-series that highlighted the events and their impact over 40 years later.
Italian City of the Week
The Italian city of the week is Orvieto, a stunning hilltop city in the region of Umbria, known for its rich history, artistic heritage, and breathtaking architecture. Perched on a volcanic tuff cliff, it offers wonderful panoramic views of the countryside—an excellent choice for a day trip from Rome!
Italian Landmark of the Week
The Duomo di Orvieto is one of Italy's most beautiful cathedrals. A Gothic masterpiece is famous for its intricate facade, frescoes, and its richly decorated interior. The Duomo should be the centerpiece of your Orvieto visit.
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