This guide provide us a lot of information about eating in italian restaurants. You will find tips on Italian cuisine and eating habits and moreover a small part on the specifications of each typical Italian restaurant and their prices.
There are countless restaurants (ristoranti) and other eating places in Italy, including the following:
* tavola calda (literally ‘hot table’) – a cheap, self-service establishment;
* osteria – essentially a wine bar offering a small selection of dishes;
* rosticceria – serving mainly cooked meats and a selection of take-away foods;
* trattoria – traditionally a family-run establishment, simpler in cuisine and less expensive than a ristorante proper, although the two have become interchangeable terms and there’s usually little difference between them, except perhaps in price (a trattoria usually being cheaper).
Small grocery shops (alimentari) also sell sandwiches to take away, while ice-cream (gelato) is sold in a gelateria, although good home-made (produzione propria) ice-cream isn’t as easy to find as it used to be – a tell-tale sign is a gelateria with a queue of Italians outside.
Restaurants rarely open for lunch before 12.30pm and for dinner before 7.30pm (up to an hour later in the south), and they usually close on one day per week, generally a Sunday or Monday.
Many restaurants offer a choice of cheaper set meals. The tourist menu (menù turistico) or meal of the day (menù del giorno), sometimes called simply the ‘fixed price menu’ (menù a presso fisso), often includes two courses (e.g. pasta and a meat dish), but not drinks, for around €12 to €20.
The à la carte menu is divided into starters (antipasto), usually salads or cold meats; first courses (primo platto piatto) of pasta or rice; main courses (secondo), a fish or meat dish accompanied by vegetables (contorno); cheese (formaggio); and desserts (dolci or frutta – as one of the options is usually fruit).
You aren’t obliged to partake of all the courses on offer but you should order at least two, as few restaurants look kindly on diners who limit themselves to a plate of pasta or salad.
If you want water with your meal, tap water (acqua semplice) is safe to drink just about everywhere and free. However, you must be sure to specify this, or the waiter may bring you mineral water (acqua minerale), which Italians usually drink alongside their wine. Mineral water is available fizzy (gassata) or still (non gassata).
Italians usually drink wine with a meal. Most drink house wine (vino della casa) or a local wine (vino locale), which can be ordered by the carafe (caraffa/vinosfuso vino sfuso) or in quarter-litre (quartino) and half-litre (mezzo litro) measures, although even good quality wines are fairly inexpensive in all but the most upmarket restaurants.
You should expect to pay around €10 for an average bottle in a restaurant or around double the supermarket price. Note, however, that many restaurants, including most trattorie, stock only a limited selection of wines and mostly cheaper varieties.
Before a meal, many Italians like to have a Campari with soda and ice or a home-made fruit cocktail, usually non-alcoholic (analcolico). After a meal, as a digestivo, liqueurs are popular and include limoncello, which is pure alcohol infused with lemons; the herb-based amaro, strega and galliano; the widely popular grappa, a strong, clear liqueur made from grape skins (whose bitter taste is certainly an acquired one!); amaretto (almond based); sambuca (a sweet liqueur made from aniseed); and maraschino, made from the cherries after which it’s named.
The bill (conto) usually includes a cover charge (coperto) of between €0.75 and €3 per person, which may include bread (pane e coperto). There may be an added service (servizio) charge of around 10 to 15 per cent. Tipping is often a casual affair, with bills rounded up to the nearest banknote rather than a specific percentage added. It’s unusual for Italians to share restaurant bills, so beware if you suggest going out for a meal with a large group of friends!
Restaurant guides are plentiful in Italy and most book shops have a section on gastronomy, including excellent guides such the Touring Club Italiano’s Guida Touring Alberghi e Ristoranti d’Italia, La Guida d’Italia (l’Espresso) and Gambero Rosso’s Ristoranti d’Italia. For English-speakers, the Michelin Red Guide to Italy is invaluable, while those on a tight budget may be interested in Cheap Eats in Italy by Sandra Gustafson.
Italian Cuisine & Eating Habits
Cooking (and eating) is an art form in Italy – one that stretches back thousands of years. Painted tombs show Etruscans enjoying huge banquets and the Romans were notorious for dining on delicacies such as flamingo tongues, peacock and crane.
The modern Italian is no less interested in food, and eating is one of the nation’s greatest pleasures. Italian cuisine (cucina) is one of the finest in the world: light and healthy, yet full of flavour. The fact that Italy’s status as a unified nation is somewhat recent explains the huge regional differences in cuisine. In the north, many dishes are reminiscent of France – rich and creamy and, surprisingly, often butter-based – while as you move south the dishes become hotter and spicier, and are cooked in olive oil rather than butter.
However, most Italian cuisine is based on a few essential ingredients, notably pasta.
When most people think of Italian food, they think of pasta dishes such as spaghetti Bolognese, lasagne and tortellini, which originated in Emilia-Romagna. Each region and many towns in Italy have their own pasta specialities, using a multitude of different shapes, sizes and colours. Short, tubular pasta, such as penne or macaroni (maccheroni in Italian), is best with rich, thick, meaty sauces, whereas long pasta, such as spaghetti and tagliatelle, is ideal with creamy or light sauces.
In the north of the country, pasta is often replaced by other staples such as polenta – a mixture of maize flour and water, which is slowly boiled and then sometimes fried – or rice, which is widely used in dishes such as risotto. Another Italian dish popular throughout the world is pizza, which originated in Naples. The ‘basic’ pizza, the margherita, which contains tomatoes, mozzarella and basil, is named after a former queen of Italy.
As well as these world-famous dishes, Italy boasts a vast range of regional and local culinary delights, such as cured ham (prosciutto) from Parma, Liguria’s pesto served with sun-dried tomatoes and foccacia focaccia bread, Venetian risotto, a rice dish served with seafood or meat, Sienna’s famous panforte, a rich fruity Christmas cake, Sardinia’s spit-roasted piglet, Sicily’s delicious desserts such as cannoli, zabaglione, granita, marzipan and cassata – a rich sponge-based dessert with ricotta cheese, liqueur and fruit – and, of course, Italian ice-cream (gelato), which is reputed to be the best in the world.
Italians are particularly fond of salad, especially green salads, which may include chicory, celery, cress, artichokes, radicchio, rocket and tomatoes. Italy also produces an amazing variety of cheeses, including mozzarella (used in pizzas), parmesan, gorgonzola, pecorino, ricotta and provolone. Salami and other pork products are another speciality, including the famous hams of Parma, mortadella from Bologna, San Daniele from Friuli and speck from Trentino-Alto Adige.
Italian eating habits are similar to those of other southern European countries. Breakfast (prima colazione) is continental style: a coffee (maybe a cappuccino) and a pastry, often taken standing in a bar or café.
Lunch (pranzo), served between 1 and 3pm, is traditionally the main meal of the day and a social occasion, when the world’s affairs are discussed and put to rights (Italy’s affairs usually take a little longer to fix); as many as four courses may be served.
However, as modern living (and the outside world) encroaches ever deeper into the Italian culture, the long lunch tradition is gradually being eroded as more and more businesses work continuous days. Dinner (cena) is served from 7 or 8pm onwards and is traditionally a simpler meal than lunch, although it’s hardly a snack and usually consists of a cooked meal.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Crime in Italy ( Burglary, theft and organized crime )
The crime rate in Italy varies considerably from region to region but is generally around average for Europe. Violent crime is rare in most areas, although muggings do occur in resort areas and cities.
Foreigners should take care when travelling in the south of Italy, where highway robbery and kidnappings of foreigners occasionally take place. Despite the fearsome reputation of the Mafia, however, there’s less violent street crime such as muggings and robbery with violence in most parts of Italy than in many other European countries, and it’s generally a very safe place for children. Sexual harassment can be a problem for women in some areas, although most men draw the line at cat-calls and whistles.
Burglary is rife, and vacant holiday homes are a popular target. Many residents keep dogs as a protection or warning against burglars and have triple-locked and steel-reinforced doors. However, crime in rural areas remains relatively low and it’s still common for people in villages and small towns not to lock their cars and homes (in some small villages keys are left in front doors).
Car theft in Italy
Theft of and from cars is widespread in cities, where foreign-registered cars are a popular target, particularly expensive models, which are often stolen to order and spirited abroad. Theft of small items such as radios, luggage, mobile phones, cameras, briefcases, sunglasses and even cigarettes from parked cars is especially common.
Thieves in the south often take items from cars at petrol (gas) stations, if necessary by smashing car windows, and from occupied vehicles in traffic jams or at traffic lights. It’s therefore wise to keep windows closed in cities and major towns, doors locked at all times, and all valuables out of sight. When parking a bicycle, moped or scooter, you should also use as many high-security locks as you can carry.
Bag snatcher in Italy
In towns and cities, beware of bag snatchers (scippatori), who operate on foot, on scooters and motorcycles or even in cars. Always carry bags slung across your body with the clasp facing inwards; make sure they have a strong strap that cannot easily be cut – if they don’t, carry them firmly in your hand. Bags that are worn around the waist (‘bum-bags’) are vulnerable and should be avoided, as should back-packs, which can easily be cut.
One of the most effective methods of protecting your passport, money, travellers’ cheques and credit cards is with an old-fashioned money belt (worn under your clothing) or a pouch on a string or strong cord around your neck. It’s also recommended to keep money and credit cards in separate places and a copy of important documents such as your passport in a safe place.
Never tempt fate with an exposed wallet or purse or by flashing your money around, and hang on tight to your shoulder bag. Don’t carry a lot of cash or expose expensive jewellery, watches or sunglasses when out walking.
Confidence tricksters are also rife in Italy, where it’s wise to avoid all strangers trying to attract your attention. Many stage ‘accidents’, such as spilling something on your clothes (or pointing out something which has been done by an accomplice), in order to rob you. Be alert to any incident that could be designed to attract your attention and keep strangers at arms’ length. Don’t accept an offer from someone to take your photograph with your camera (they’re likely to run off with it); if you must ask someone to take a photo, ask a tourist or a waiter.
Pickpockets and bag-snatchers are a plague in the major cities, where the street urchins (often Albanians or Gypsies) are highly organised and trained pickpockets (if you get jostled, check for your wallet). They try to surround you and often use newspapers or large pieces of cardboard to distract you and hide their roaming hands. Keep them at arm’s length, if necessary by force, and keep a firm grip on your valuables.
If you’re targeted, shout va via (go away) in a loud voice – a loud whistle can also be useful to scare off prospective attackers or pickpockets. Always remain vigilant in tourist haunts, queues, on public transport (particularly on night trains) and anywhere that there are crowds. Thieves on crowded public transport slit the bottoms of purses or bags with a razor blade or sharp knife and remove the contents.
Crime in Rome
Italy is infamous for its organised crime and gang warfare, which is rife in some areas, although it has no discernible impact on the lives of most foreigners there (particularly in the north of the country). The term ‘Mafia’ is used to describe five distinct organised crime groups: the original Sicilian Mafia, the Camorra in Naples and Campania, the Ndrangheta in Calabria, and the Sacra Corona Unità Unita and La Rosa in Apulia.
These groups operate both separately and together, and their activities range from drugs and contraband dealing to protection and gambling rackets and prostitution. They monopolise lucrative contracts in most fields throughout the country and it’s estimated that their combined turnover is billions of euros, possibly over 10 per cent of Italy’s GNP.
The Mafia holds a death grip on the south of Italy, where business people are often forced to pay protection money (pizzo) to the mobsters to ensure their businesses are safe – it’s estimated that half the businesses in Naples pay protection money – or are prey to loan sharking (usurai – lending money at extortionate rates of interest).
Despite many high profile arrests in recent years, rumours of the Mafia’s demise or loss of influence are premature and they reportedly have their fingers in every facet of government right up to the Prime Minister’s office in Rome! In recent years, Albanians, Russians and other foreign gangsters have established their own ‘Mafia’ in the north, where they’re heavily involved in illegal drugs.
Don’t let the foregoing catalogue of crime put you off Italy. You can usually safely walk almost anywhere at any time of day or night and there’s no need for anxiety or paranoia about crime. However, you should be ‘street-wise’ and take certain elementary precautions.
These include avoiding high-risk areas (such as parks and car parks) at night and those frequented by drug addicts, prostitutes and pickpockets at all times. You can safely travel on the underground (metrò) at almost any time, although some stations are best avoided late at night. When you’re in an unfamiliar city, ask a policeman, taxi driver or other local person whether there are any unsafe neighbourhoods – and avoid them!
If you’re the victim of a crime, you should report it to the nearest police station (commissariato di pubblica sicurezza) or to the local carabinieri immediatel. You can report it by telephone but must go to the station to complete a report (denuncia), of which you receive a copy for insurance purposes. Don’t, however, expect the police to find your belongings or even take any interest in your loss. Report a theft to your insurance company as soon as possible.
Foreigners should take care when travelling in the south of Italy, where highway robbery and kidnappings of foreigners occasionally take place. Despite the fearsome reputation of the Mafia, however, there’s less violent street crime such as muggings and robbery with violence in most parts of Italy than in many other European countries, and it’s generally a very safe place for children. Sexual harassment can be a problem for women in some areas, although most men draw the line at cat-calls and whistles.
Burglary is rife, and vacant holiday homes are a popular target. Many residents keep dogs as a protection or warning against burglars and have triple-locked and steel-reinforced doors. However, crime in rural areas remains relatively low and it’s still common for people in villages and small towns not to lock their cars and homes (in some small villages keys are left in front doors).
Car theft in Italy
Theft of and from cars is widespread in cities, where foreign-registered cars are a popular target, particularly expensive models, which are often stolen to order and spirited abroad. Theft of small items such as radios, luggage, mobile phones, cameras, briefcases, sunglasses and even cigarettes from parked cars is especially common.
Thieves in the south often take items from cars at petrol (gas) stations, if necessary by smashing car windows, and from occupied vehicles in traffic jams or at traffic lights. It’s therefore wise to keep windows closed in cities and major towns, doors locked at all times, and all valuables out of sight. When parking a bicycle, moped or scooter, you should also use as many high-security locks as you can carry.
Bag snatcher in Italy
In towns and cities, beware of bag snatchers (scippatori), who operate on foot, on scooters and motorcycles or even in cars. Always carry bags slung across your body with the clasp facing inwards; make sure they have a strong strap that cannot easily be cut – if they don’t, carry them firmly in your hand. Bags that are worn around the waist (‘bum-bags’) are vulnerable and should be avoided, as should back-packs, which can easily be cut.
One of the most effective methods of protecting your passport, money, travellers’ cheques and credit cards is with an old-fashioned money belt (worn under your clothing) or a pouch on a string or strong cord around your neck. It’s also recommended to keep money and credit cards in separate places and a copy of important documents such as your passport in a safe place.
Never tempt fate with an exposed wallet or purse or by flashing your money around, and hang on tight to your shoulder bag. Don’t carry a lot of cash or expose expensive jewellery, watches or sunglasses when out walking.
Confidence tricksters are also rife in Italy, where it’s wise to avoid all strangers trying to attract your attention. Many stage ‘accidents’, such as spilling something on your clothes (or pointing out something which has been done by an accomplice), in order to rob you. Be alert to any incident that could be designed to attract your attention and keep strangers at arms’ length. Don’t accept an offer from someone to take your photograph with your camera (they’re likely to run off with it); if you must ask someone to take a photo, ask a tourist or a waiter.
Pickpockets and bag-snatchers are a plague in the major cities, where the street urchins (often Albanians or Gypsies) are highly organised and trained pickpockets (if you get jostled, check for your wallet). They try to surround you and often use newspapers or large pieces of cardboard to distract you and hide their roaming hands. Keep them at arm’s length, if necessary by force, and keep a firm grip on your valuables.
If you’re targeted, shout va via (go away) in a loud voice – a loud whistle can also be useful to scare off prospective attackers or pickpockets. Always remain vigilant in tourist haunts, queues, on public transport (particularly on night trains) and anywhere that there are crowds. Thieves on crowded public transport slit the bottoms of purses or bags with a razor blade or sharp knife and remove the contents.
Crime in Rome
Italy is infamous for its organised crime and gang warfare, which is rife in some areas, although it has no discernible impact on the lives of most foreigners there (particularly in the north of the country). The term ‘Mafia’ is used to describe five distinct organised crime groups: the original Sicilian Mafia, the Camorra in Naples and Campania, the Ndrangheta in Calabria, and the Sacra Corona Unità Unita and La Rosa in Apulia.
These groups operate both separately and together, and their activities range from drugs and contraband dealing to protection and gambling rackets and prostitution. They monopolise lucrative contracts in most fields throughout the country and it’s estimated that their combined turnover is billions of euros, possibly over 10 per cent of Italy’s GNP.
The Mafia holds a death grip on the south of Italy, where business people are often forced to pay protection money (pizzo) to the mobsters to ensure their businesses are safe – it’s estimated that half the businesses in Naples pay protection money – or are prey to loan sharking (usurai – lending money at extortionate rates of interest).
Despite many high profile arrests in recent years, rumours of the Mafia’s demise or loss of influence are premature and they reportedly have their fingers in every facet of government right up to the Prime Minister’s office in Rome! In recent years, Albanians, Russians and other foreign gangsters have established their own ‘Mafia’ in the north, where they’re heavily involved in illegal drugs.
Don’t let the foregoing catalogue of crime put you off Italy. You can usually safely walk almost anywhere at any time of day or night and there’s no need for anxiety or paranoia about crime. However, you should be ‘street-wise’ and take certain elementary precautions.
These include avoiding high-risk areas (such as parks and car parks) at night and those frequented by drug addicts, prostitutes and pickpockets at all times. You can safely travel on the underground (metrò) at almost any time, although some stations are best avoided late at night. When you’re in an unfamiliar city, ask a policeman, taxi driver or other local person whether there are any unsafe neighbourhoods – and avoid them!
If you’re the victim of a crime, you should report it to the nearest police station (commissariato di pubblica sicurezza) or to the local carabinieri immediatel. You can report it by telephone but must go to the station to complete a report (denuncia), of which you receive a copy for insurance purposes. Don’t, however, expect the police to find your belongings or even take any interest in your loss. Report a theft to your insurance company as soon as possible.
The Italian Police ( Carabinieri, state police and local police )
There are various police (polizia) forces in Italy, most of which are armed (some even brandish machine guns). All police come under the Ministry of the Interior, apart from the carabinieri, which come under the Ministry of Defence in certain matters.
A 1981 reform was supposed to merge the carabinieri with the other police forces, although nothing came of it and there’s still considerable duplication of their roles. Both carabinieri and ‘ordinary’ police are responsible for public order and security, and you can contact either to report a crime; dial 112 (non-emergencies) or 113 (emergencies) for police assistance. You should report a theft to the carabinieri or the polizia di stato.
Carabinieri
The carabinieri are a special branch of the army (numbering around 113,000), with similar functions to the police, particularly concerning criminal investigation. They deal with national and serious crime, including organised crime, and are Italy’s most efficient and professional police force (and the best-funded).
Carabinieri officers are distinguished by their dark blue uniforms with a red stripe down the side of the trousers and white shoulder belts; they also have splendid ceremonial uniforms with long cloaks and ‘Napoleonic’ hats. They’re housed in barracks (caserma) in all major towns and cities, drive navy blue cars and also employ helicopters, aircraft and speed boats.
State Police
The polizia di stato or polizia statale is a national or state police force, with branches responsible for the security of main roads (polizia stradale), the rail system (polizia ferroviaria) and airports (polizia aereoportuale). Officers wear light blue trousers with a thin purple stripe and a dark blue jacket.
They have stations (questura or a commissariati in smaller towns) in all main towns and cities, and drive light-blue cars with a white stripe and ‘Polizia’ written on the side. If you want to obtain a residence permit, you should go to the polizia (ask for the Ufficio Stranieri).
Local Police
The vigili urbani are municipal or local police, who deal mainly with local traffic control and municipal administration, and consequently aren’t very popular (not that any police are popular).
Officers wear white helmets and dress in black in winter and blue in summer, drive black and white cars or ride motorcycles or bicycles. Some municipal police speak foreign languages, shown by a badge on their uniforms.
Guardia di Finanza
The guardia di finanza (numbering around 68,000) is responsible for regulating national and international financial dealings and combating fraud, counterfeiting, tax evasion and smuggling.
They’re particularly active at border crossings, airports and ports, where they operate fast powerboats to apprehend smugglers. Officers wear grey/green uniforms with an insignia of yellow flames on the shoulders (hence their nickname of fiamme gialle). Although it’s highly unlikely, you could be stopped by an officer of the guardi guardia di finanza if you leave a shop without a receipt for a purchase.
A 1981 reform was supposed to merge the carabinieri with the other police forces, although nothing came of it and there’s still considerable duplication of their roles. Both carabinieri and ‘ordinary’ police are responsible for public order and security, and you can contact either to report a crime; dial 112 (non-emergencies) or 113 (emergencies) for police assistance. You should report a theft to the carabinieri or the polizia di stato.
Carabinieri
The carabinieri are a special branch of the army (numbering around 113,000), with similar functions to the police, particularly concerning criminal investigation. They deal with national and serious crime, including organised crime, and are Italy’s most efficient and professional police force (and the best-funded).
Carabinieri officers are distinguished by their dark blue uniforms with a red stripe down the side of the trousers and white shoulder belts; they also have splendid ceremonial uniforms with long cloaks and ‘Napoleonic’ hats. They’re housed in barracks (caserma) in all major towns and cities, drive navy blue cars and also employ helicopters, aircraft and speed boats.
State Police
The polizia di stato or polizia statale is a national or state police force, with branches responsible for the security of main roads (polizia stradale), the rail system (polizia ferroviaria) and airports (polizia aereoportuale). Officers wear light blue trousers with a thin purple stripe and a dark blue jacket.
They have stations (questura or a commissariati in smaller towns) in all main towns and cities, and drive light-blue cars with a white stripe and ‘Polizia’ written on the side. If you want to obtain a residence permit, you should go to the polizia (ask for the Ufficio Stranieri).
Local Police
The vigili urbani are municipal or local police, who deal mainly with local traffic control and municipal administration, and consequently aren’t very popular (not that any police are popular).
Officers wear white helmets and dress in black in winter and blue in summer, drive black and white cars or ride motorcycles or bicycles. Some municipal police speak foreign languages, shown by a badge on their uniforms.
Guardia di Finanza
The guardia di finanza (numbering around 68,000) is responsible for regulating national and international financial dealings and combating fraud, counterfeiting, tax evasion and smuggling.
They’re particularly active at border crossings, airports and ports, where they operate fast powerboats to apprehend smugglers. Officers wear grey/green uniforms with an insignia of yellow flames on the shoulders (hence their nickname of fiamme gialle). Although it’s highly unlikely, you could be stopped by an officer of the guardi guardia di finanza if you leave a shop without a receipt for a purchase.
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Cultural initiative
Cultural initiative in Italy is characterized by the plurality of bodies involved. The management of cultural affairs is accomplished through an interlaced system of administrative bodies, whose competences are dispersed among several sectors and administrative levels.
The administrative model divides the country into twenty regions, 92 provinces, and some 8,000 municipalities distinguished not only by social and economic conditions but above all by their cultural backgrounds. Cultural events and projects of all kinds are often supervised by several bodies at different levels, including organizations under the control of the private sector.
Four levels of government (State, Regions, Provinces and Municipalities) share responsibilities in the cultural field.
Transnational cultural cooperation outside Europe is mainly a task of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Ministry has created a specific "DG Cultural Promotion and Cooperation" which acts through the 93 Italian Cultural Institutes. One of their main tasks is to organize cultural events.
In the absence of a Ministry of Culture as such, the responsibility for this field is distributed among several Italian ministries including the Ministry for Cultural Heritage and Activities.
The Ministry for Cultural Heritage and Activities through the different General Directions plays a role in promoting international cooperation. Cultural heritage, or "beni culturali" as conceived by the Italian administration, includes architectural monuments, museums, libraries and archives (the relatively young Ministry for Cultural Heritage and the Environment has been created by combining the former General Direction of Antiquities and Fine Arts with the State Archives).
The promotion of the theatre, music and cinema is up to the General Direction for cinema and the General Direction for live entertainments.
The Ministry supervises and finances some 250 institutions and performing groups, including major opera houses and symphony orchestras, several prominent chamber orchestras, permanent public theatres as well as non-profit cooperative theatres, touring companies, commercial theatres, and smaller orchestras, dance companies, etc. The Unique Fund for Performing Arts, includes grants for supporting activities abroad in the fields of Music, Cinema, Theatre and Dance.
The administrative model divides the country into twenty regions, 92 provinces, and some 8,000 municipalities distinguished not only by social and economic conditions but above all by their cultural backgrounds. Cultural events and projects of all kinds are often supervised by several bodies at different levels, including organizations under the control of the private sector.
Four levels of government (State, Regions, Provinces and Municipalities) share responsibilities in the cultural field.
Transnational cultural cooperation outside Europe is mainly a task of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Ministry has created a specific "DG Cultural Promotion and Cooperation" which acts through the 93 Italian Cultural Institutes. One of their main tasks is to organize cultural events.
In the absence of a Ministry of Culture as such, the responsibility for this field is distributed among several Italian ministries including the Ministry for Cultural Heritage and Activities.
The Ministry for Cultural Heritage and Activities through the different General Directions plays a role in promoting international cooperation. Cultural heritage, or "beni culturali" as conceived by the Italian administration, includes architectural monuments, museums, libraries and archives (the relatively young Ministry for Cultural Heritage and the Environment has been created by combining the former General Direction of Antiquities and Fine Arts with the State Archives).
The promotion of the theatre, music and cinema is up to the General Direction for cinema and the General Direction for live entertainments.
The Ministry supervises and finances some 250 institutions and performing groups, including major opera houses and symphony orchestras, several prominent chamber orchestras, permanent public theatres as well as non-profit cooperative theatres, touring companies, commercial theatres, and smaller orchestras, dance companies, etc. The Unique Fund for Performing Arts, includes grants for supporting activities abroad in the fields of Music, Cinema, Theatre and Dance.
Fashion Italians
Italy "the land of the beautiful" is synonymous with fashion. Italians are probably one of the most fashion conscious races in Europe. Italy's love affair with fashion began on the 25th of February 1951 when Count Giorgini staged a fashion show for an international audience in Florence.
Count Giorgini rekindled the myth of the noble classes by clothing members of the nobility themselves and parading them in lavish settings alongside fantastic sculptures of fame, the epitome themselves of beauty. The logic being that only these princesses and noblewomen, could, by their education and culture, wear these fine clothes properly.
When the sixties arrived everything changed. During these times of protest women's role in society evolved. Now every woman wanted to share the myths of their own time. Everyone could be a fairy princess just like the nobility. From this, a new emphasis on creativity and design grew. New styles in manufactured garments came onto the market and women across the world began to dress stylishly at a low cost.
During the seventies and eighties, Milan became a fashion landmark and 'Made in Italy' fashion became recognized all over the world as top class.
Over the years Italy has produced some of the most influential designers of our time including: Karl Lagerfeld, Missoni, Gucci, Armani, Moschino, Dolce & Gabbana and Versace.
Count Giorgini rekindled the myth of the noble classes by clothing members of the nobility themselves and parading them in lavish settings alongside fantastic sculptures of fame, the epitome themselves of beauty. The logic being that only these princesses and noblewomen, could, by their education and culture, wear these fine clothes properly.
When the sixties arrived everything changed. During these times of protest women's role in society evolved. Now every woman wanted to share the myths of their own time. Everyone could be a fairy princess just like the nobility. From this, a new emphasis on creativity and design grew. New styles in manufactured garments came onto the market and women across the world began to dress stylishly at a low cost.
During the seventies and eighties, Milan became a fashion landmark and 'Made in Italy' fashion became recognized all over the world as top class.
Over the years Italy has produced some of the most influential designers of our time including: Karl Lagerfeld, Missoni, Gucci, Armani, Moschino, Dolce & Gabbana and Versace.
Italians Share
You can see the influence of the traditional Mediterranean culture on the inhabitants in the central and southern parts of the country. In southern Italy most people are shorter with olive skin and dark hair. On the other hand, in the north they tend to be taller, blonder and have lighter eyes; most likely due to close by Germanic influence from across the Alps.
Whether from the north or south, Italians share one common thing - a love and lust for life! They're lively, sociable and have a passion for everything they do. They talk loudly and always express themselves using hand gestures. Italians aren't afraid to show emotions; give each other hugs, kisses...etc.
Most Italians are Roman Catholics. The influence of the church can be seen in everyday life as well and in their stunning art pieces and fascinating archeology. Most religious monuments and paintings as well as local traditions based on Christian celebrations and the lives of the saints.
Italians are proud of their artistic heritage and so they should be. Italy has produced some of the greatest artists in the world; Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael, to name just a few. Museums, churches and courtyards all over the country proudly display the works of Italy's finest artists.
Italy is home to the Opera and Opera music. Everyone's heard of Rossini, Verdi and Puccini - the classics. It's accessible to everyone, from upper class city dwellers to simple peasant farmers. Most Italians will have a firm grasp or knowledge of opera and will attend a performance whenever possible.
Italians are very hard workers but they also know how to relax and enjoy themselves. In major cities it's quite normal for people to work a full five days and then half a day on Saturday, but it's also normal for them to take a long lunch break every day, often going home and spending several hours eating and sleeping, before coming back to work.
The main meal, which is adoringly prepared and savoured, normally takes place in the evening. It's a very social and family orientated event. Italians often go on eating, drinking and socializing well into the early hours.
The typical Italian home is simple yet practical and always colourful. You'll see balconies with fresh red roses hanging on bright blue railings, tables full of apples, grapes, fresh cheese and bottles of local wine; colourful flowers everywhere, tiny courtyards and gardens with picturesque statues. The homes reflect what the people of Italy love; beauty, color, style, family and friendship.
Whether from the north or south, Italians share one common thing - a love and lust for life! They're lively, sociable and have a passion for everything they do. They talk loudly and always express themselves using hand gestures. Italians aren't afraid to show emotions; give each other hugs, kisses...etc.
Most Italians are Roman Catholics. The influence of the church can be seen in everyday life as well and in their stunning art pieces and fascinating archeology. Most religious monuments and paintings as well as local traditions based on Christian celebrations and the lives of the saints.
Italians are proud of their artistic heritage and so they should be. Italy has produced some of the greatest artists in the world; Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael, to name just a few. Museums, churches and courtyards all over the country proudly display the works of Italy's finest artists.
Italy is home to the Opera and Opera music. Everyone's heard of Rossini, Verdi and Puccini - the classics. It's accessible to everyone, from upper class city dwellers to simple peasant farmers. Most Italians will have a firm grasp or knowledge of opera and will attend a performance whenever possible.
Italians are very hard workers but they also know how to relax and enjoy themselves. In major cities it's quite normal for people to work a full five days and then half a day on Saturday, but it's also normal for them to take a long lunch break every day, often going home and spending several hours eating and sleeping, before coming back to work.
The main meal, which is adoringly prepared and savoured, normally takes place in the evening. It's a very social and family orientated event. Italians often go on eating, drinking and socializing well into the early hours.
The typical Italian home is simple yet practical and always colourful. You'll see balconies with fresh red roses hanging on bright blue railings, tables full of apples, grapes, fresh cheese and bottles of local wine; colourful flowers everywhere, tiny courtyards and gardens with picturesque statues. The homes reflect what the people of Italy love; beauty, color, style, family and friendship.
Sunday, January 6, 2008
Culture of Italy
The Culture of Italy revealed in the ancient relics and historical remnants, reflects the spirit of enlightenment and elegance existing among the people at that time. Ever since its inception, the country has contributed sufficiently in the advancement of world culture. The Italians, expert and efficient in all cultural spheres like literature, music, architecture and sculptures are the creators of masterpieces in their respective fields. Despite all regional and topographical differences, the cultural heritage of Italy is something that the Italians cherish and boast of, and they feel privileged to hand over this rich cultural legacy down to the coming generations.
Expansion of the Culture of Italy began mainly during the Renaissance that initiated an overall revolution in different cultural spheres throughout the globe. The effect of Renaissance in Europe was directly felt on the Italian peninsula. As a result, this period witnessed some drastic changes, immensely affecting the imagination, creativity, inventory and the intellect of the human beings in general. This abrupt but obvious transformation was directly absorbed by the Italian population and revealed in the subsequent artistic productions.
Sculpture, architecture, art, science, language, literature, sport, philosophy and music acquired a new dimension in the face of this new cultural resurgence and upsurge. Works of prominence were produced by eminent personalities of Italy. In the field of literature, some masterpieces like “The Divine Comedy” was written by Dante Alighieri. A new form of poetic style called the “Sonnet” evolved due to Renaissance. Sonnet as a prominent form of literary style was introduced by the famous Italian poet, Petrarch and later followed by Shakespeare. Philosophers of repute like Niccolo Machiavelli with his eternal creation, “The Prince” proposed new methods of ruling the country and lead the government. Machiavelli's work altered the existing political outlook and modified the biased views to a large extent. The names of Michelangelo (creator of David, Pieta and Moses), Leonardo da Vinci (painter of Monalisa), Titian and Raphael are inseparably associated with Italian sculptures and paintings.
Meanwhile, progress in the field of science and technology was at its height with Galileo Galilei's immense contribution in astronomy. The famous physicist, Fermi studied the Quantum Theory, while matters related to electric battery was taken care of by Volta. Mathematicians like Lagrange and Fabonacci, Nobel laureates like Marconi (invented radio) and Antonio Mencci contributed immensely towards the cultural development of Italy during this age.
Music got also enriched in the hands of the Italians. Opera as a new musical concept came into being as an integral part of the Culture of Italy. Culture of Italy at this age also saw the birth of traditional Western music as well as instruments like violin and piano. The exclusive compositions of Pelestrina, Monteverdi, Paginni, Rossini, Verdi, Puccini and several others attracted music lovers from all parts of the world to visit the country and be an integral part of its cultural revival.
The legend of the famous Gladiatorial sports that is still synonymous with the name of the country is an inseparable part of the Culture of Italy . Considering all the fresh cultural additions and modifications that occurred in Italy during the golden age of Renaissance, the country's achievements in this realm is indeed unforgettable.
Expansion of the Culture of Italy began mainly during the Renaissance that initiated an overall revolution in different cultural spheres throughout the globe. The effect of Renaissance in Europe was directly felt on the Italian peninsula. As a result, this period witnessed some drastic changes, immensely affecting the imagination, creativity, inventory and the intellect of the human beings in general. This abrupt but obvious transformation was directly absorbed by the Italian population and revealed in the subsequent artistic productions.
Sculpture, architecture, art, science, language, literature, sport, philosophy and music acquired a new dimension in the face of this new cultural resurgence and upsurge. Works of prominence were produced by eminent personalities of Italy. In the field of literature, some masterpieces like “The Divine Comedy” was written by Dante Alighieri. A new form of poetic style called the “Sonnet” evolved due to Renaissance. Sonnet as a prominent form of literary style was introduced by the famous Italian poet, Petrarch and later followed by Shakespeare. Philosophers of repute like Niccolo Machiavelli with his eternal creation, “The Prince” proposed new methods of ruling the country and lead the government. Machiavelli's work altered the existing political outlook and modified the biased views to a large extent. The names of Michelangelo (creator of David, Pieta and Moses), Leonardo da Vinci (painter of Monalisa), Titian and Raphael are inseparably associated with Italian sculptures and paintings.
Meanwhile, progress in the field of science and technology was at its height with Galileo Galilei's immense contribution in astronomy. The famous physicist, Fermi studied the Quantum Theory, while matters related to electric battery was taken care of by Volta. Mathematicians like Lagrange and Fabonacci, Nobel laureates like Marconi (invented radio) and Antonio Mencci contributed immensely towards the cultural development of Italy during this age.
Music got also enriched in the hands of the Italians. Opera as a new musical concept came into being as an integral part of the Culture of Italy. Culture of Italy at this age also saw the birth of traditional Western music as well as instruments like violin and piano. The exclusive compositions of Pelestrina, Monteverdi, Paginni, Rossini, Verdi, Puccini and several others attracted music lovers from all parts of the world to visit the country and be an integral part of its cultural revival.
The legend of the famous Gladiatorial sports that is still synonymous with the name of the country is an inseparable part of the Culture of Italy . Considering all the fresh cultural additions and modifications that occurred in Italy during the golden age of Renaissance, the country's achievements in this realm is indeed unforgettable.
Religion in Italy
The Religion in Italy reflects the secular nature of the country, bringing about peace and harmony between its inhabitants and maintaining their happy co-existence. Italy, in fact, is a land supporting diverse religions, and its followers, through mutual love and faith lead the nation towards development and prosperity.
From time immemorial till date, Roman Catholicism had been and still remains the principal religion in Italy . As the Italian official religion since 1929, its role is significant enough to influence the overall activities of the country. About 85 percent of the Italian population is firm believers and devoted followers of Catholicism. Apart from Catholicism, Italy is tolerant of other religious communities as well. Thus the country is infested with Protestant Christians as well as people from the Jewish and Judaist communities.
Islam was almost absent from the Italian mainland since the time of its unification in 1861 till the 1970s. It is the extensive North African migration to the country that brought in Islam and with time, established it firmly on the soils of Italy. The religion started by the Berber and Arab immigrants was heavily followed by Albanians, Tunisians, Egyptians, Pakistanis, Libyans, Kurds and the Middle Eastern in recent times that has increased the total number of Islamic followers in Italy to be nearly 10,000.
Prior to the advent of Christianity and Roman Catholicism in Italy in 1st century A.D, the Religion in Italy in ancient times was basically pagan in nature. The Italian inhabitants worshipped Roman gods and Goddesses who were quite a handful in number. Legends and myths about these gods and goddesses were popular in the country that stressed on their powers and authorities. They strongly believed that each group of people was under the constant watch of some god or the other who also protects them during mishaps or emergencies. Below are names of some of the famous Italian Gods and Goddesses who were highly revered by the Italians:
* Minerva - Goddess of wisdom and work
* Mars - God of wars
* Venus - the Goddess of love
* Juno – Jupiter's wife and protector of women
* Neptune - Brother of Jupiter and the Sea God
* Saturn - one of oldest Roman god
* Jupiter - most important Roman god and the lord of the sky
Paganism, according to Religion in Italy worshipped the gods and goddesses in temples sacrificing animals and other precious items in their name. With passing time, more and more Italians transformed into Christianity until 4th century A.D, when Emperor Constantine planned to make Christianity, Italy's official religion.
From time immemorial till date, Roman Catholicism had been and still remains the principal religion in Italy . As the Italian official religion since 1929, its role is significant enough to influence the overall activities of the country. About 85 percent of the Italian population is firm believers and devoted followers of Catholicism. Apart from Catholicism, Italy is tolerant of other religious communities as well. Thus the country is infested with Protestant Christians as well as people from the Jewish and Judaist communities.
Islam was almost absent from the Italian mainland since the time of its unification in 1861 till the 1970s. It is the extensive North African migration to the country that brought in Islam and with time, established it firmly on the soils of Italy. The religion started by the Berber and Arab immigrants was heavily followed by Albanians, Tunisians, Egyptians, Pakistanis, Libyans, Kurds and the Middle Eastern in recent times that has increased the total number of Islamic followers in Italy to be nearly 10,000.
Prior to the advent of Christianity and Roman Catholicism in Italy in 1st century A.D, the Religion in Italy in ancient times was basically pagan in nature. The Italian inhabitants worshipped Roman gods and Goddesses who were quite a handful in number. Legends and myths about these gods and goddesses were popular in the country that stressed on their powers and authorities. They strongly believed that each group of people was under the constant watch of some god or the other who also protects them during mishaps or emergencies. Below are names of some of the famous Italian Gods and Goddesses who were highly revered by the Italians:
* Minerva - Goddess of wisdom and work
* Mars - God of wars
* Venus - the Goddess of love
* Juno – Jupiter's wife and protector of women
* Neptune - Brother of Jupiter and the Sea God
* Saturn - one of oldest Roman god
* Jupiter - most important Roman god and the lord of the sky
Paganism, according to Religion in Italy worshipped the gods and goddesses in temples sacrificing animals and other precious items in their name. With passing time, more and more Italians transformed into Christianity until 4th century A.D, when Emperor Constantine planned to make Christianity, Italy's official religion.
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