Weekly Dose of Italian Culture #22
Welcome to the 22nd Edition of Weekly Dose of Italian Culture!
This week, we’re unveiling hidden gems from Italy’s artistic and cultural landscape.
Italian Movie of the Week
La commare secca (1962, The Grim Reaper) is Bernardo Bertolucci’s directorial debut. When a woman is killed in a park, the police brings in every suspect to question them. Including the actual killer. In the process, it offers a raw look into the streets of Rome in post-war Italy, capturing everyday encounters with a documentary-like intimacy. Harshly criticized at first, it is now considered a brilliant debut.
Italian Song of the Week
The song of the week is Ciuri Ciuri, a traditional Sicilian folk song, still popular to this day.
Famous Italian of the Week
Gaetano Pesce (b. 1939 - 2024) was a visionary in contemporary design and architecture. His creations, which often blur the line between art and function, have earned him international acclaim for his innovation and dynamism.
Italian City of the Week
Nestled at the foot of the Alps, Torino (Turin) is a city of refined elegance and vibrant culture. Known for its historic cafés, grand boulevards, and impressive baroque architecture, Torino was the first capital of unified Italy in 1861.
Home of Fiat and Alfa Romeo, Torino is also the automotive capital of Italy.
Italian Landmark of the Week
Villa Rufolo is a historic villa and cultural center in Ravello, above the breathtaking Amalfi Coast. This centuries-old estate is rich in art and history and offers mesmerizing gardens and panoramic vistas.
Geography Fact of the Week
Set in a volcanic crater in the Lazio region, the Lago di Bolsena stands as Europe’s largest volcanic lake. Its crystal-clear waters, the surrounding landscape, and rich history make it a must-visit if you are in the Orvieto area.
History Fact of the Week
Long before Italy’s unification, Lucca thrived as an independent republic. Famed for its well-preserved Renaissance walls and unique system of governance, this Tuscan city continues to fascinate scholars and visitors. After Firenze and Siena, Lucca is arguably the third most noteworthy city in Tuscany.
Italian Dish of the Week
Originating from Liguria, Farinata is a delightful chickpea flour pancake, crispy on the outside and tender inside. Traditionally baked in wood-fired ovens, this humble street food reflects the simplicity and flavorful nature of Italian culinary traditions.
Italian Proverb of the Week
La notte porta consiglio.
(The night brings advice.)
This expression encourages us to take time to think overnight before making important decisions. Essentially, sleep on it!
Italian Custom of the Week
If you are ever in Ascoli Piceno around July or August, you owe yourself to watch La Quintana, an annual Palio event that includes archery, flag-throwing, and jousting. Participants wear historical costumes and reenact various contests. It’s like stepping back into medieval times.
I hope you enjoyed this edition of Weekly Dose of Italian Culture. Alla prossima!