Weekly Dose of Italian Culture #21
Welcome to the 21st Edition of Weekly Dose of Italian Culture! Each week, we explore new elements of Italy's vibrant culture.
Italian Movie of the Week
L'Avventura (1960) by Michelangelo Antonioni is our movie of the week. This film is famous for its narrative style, focusing on the mystery of a woman's disappearance and the emotional dynamics among the remaining characters. It's celebrated for its visual beauty, existential themes, and the silent intensity of its storytelling. I would argue that it perfectly highlights Monica Vitti's acting talent.
Italian Song of the Week
The song of the week is the iconic Azzurro by Adriano Celentano.
Famous Italian of the Week
Rita Levi-Montalcini (1909 – 2012) was a neurobiologist and a Nobel laureate in Physiology or Medicine for her work on nerve growth factor (NGF). Her life story is one of triumph over adversity, having continued her research even during WWII under fascist laws that barred Jews from academic positions. She was also known for longevity and continued work well into her 100s.
Italian City of the Week
Italy's fashion and finance capital, Milano is more than just shopping and skyscrapers. It boasts historical landmarks like the Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci, the Teatro alla Scala, and the magnificent Duomo. Milan's vibrant cultural scene, from fashion weeks to art exhibitions, makes it a dynamic city and one of the best cities to find a job in Italy. Sadly, its rate of crime has gone up dramatically over the past few years.
Italian Landmark of the Week
The Duomo di Milano is one of the largest churches in the world. This Gothic cathedral is adorned with thousands of statues, spires, and gargoyles. Its construction began in the 14th century and took nearly six centuries to complete, symbolizing the enduring spirit of Milan. Emerging from the subway station and seeing it for the first time was a magnificent sight that stayed with me.
Geography Fact of the Week
Located in Emilia-Romagna, the Comacchio Lagoons are a natural paradise, famous for their biodiversity, especially for being a sanctuary for various bird species. The area is also known for its traditional fishing practices and the production of eels, which are a delicacy in Italian cuisine.
History Fact of the Week
From its establishment in 1115 to its final fall in 1532, Florence was a republic with a rich history of art, politics, and commerce. It was during this period that Florence became the cradle of the Renaissance, with figures like the Medici family, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo shaping it culturally.
Italian Dish of the Week
Supplì - A Roman rice croquette, similar to Sicilian arancini but with a unique shape and often filled with rice and mozzarella. They're a beloved street food, particularly popular in Rome and the center of Italy, where they're enjoyed as an inexpensive snack or appetizer.
Italian Proverb of the Week
Non tutto il male vien per nuocere.
(Not all evil comes to harm.)
This proverb suggests that sometimes, even negative events can lead to positive outcomes.
Italian Custom of the Week
Celebrated on June 2nd each year, La Festa della Repubblica is a holiday commemorating the day Italians voted to abolish the monarchy and establish a republic in 1946. Celebrations include military parades, flag-waving, the Freccie Tricolori, and public events, reflecting national pride and the victory of democracy over fascism.
I hope you enjoyed this edition of Weekly Dose of Italian Culture. Alla prossima!