Good pronunciation is an essential component of language learning, especially when it comes to speaking Italian. It not only helps learners to communicate more effectively with native speakers, but it also enhances their overall understanding and appreciation of the language.
Italian opera is a genre of vocal music that has its origins in the 18th century. Its origins can be traced back to the culture and society of the time, specifically the desire to create a national art form that represented Italy. The first example of Italian opera is considered to be “Dafne” by Jacopo Peri in 1598, but it was with Claudio Monteverdi’s “Orfeo” in 1607 that Italian opera began to develop as a distinct genre.
Between the beginning of the 15th century and the end of the 16th century, one of the most important artistic and intellectual movements in all of European history developed in Italy and Europe: the Renaissance. The latter, having its roots in Humanism, represents a complex and dynamic historical moment that effectively marked the transition between the Middle Ages and the Modern Era.
Even though pesto is one of the most well-known icons of Italian food worldwide, not everyone is familiar with the roots and traditions that, in 2018, led to this remarkable sauce being nominated as a UNESCO intangible heritage.
If you've been hanging out with Italians, chances are you might have felt confused hearing the sentence 'In bocca al lupo!' thrown with enthusiasm among the other things they say at the end of a gathering. Literally meaning 'in the mouth of the wolf!', this popular colloquialism is just another way of wishing good luck to someone who is about to step into something new that might present a challenge—be it an exam, the beginning of a new job or project, or an adventurous trip.
This famous quote synthetizes the whole period of Festivity Season, or Christmas Holidays – Feste di Natale e Nuovo Anno- for Italians. The holidays, which are public holidays for school students starting around from 23 December and ending on 8th January depending on the Italian region, include religious and lay festivities, like Christmas’ Eve (Vigilia di Natale) and Christmas (Natale) itself, Santo Stefano (Box Day), New Year’s Eve (San Silvestro, 31st December, or Vigilia di Capodanno), and New Year, or Capodanno (the Head/Start of the Year). A very happy period for Italian children, not going to school, and enjoying family, games, presents and food with their families!
In the heart of ancient Rome stands an architectural marvel that has withstood the test of time—the Colosseum. This iconic amphitheater embodies the grandeur and the brutality of a bygone era. Its history echoes with the cheers of spectators, the clashes of swords, and the valor of gladiators.
As time flows on, we've always had the inclination to name its passing. We frequently use the names of months, but have you ever wondered about the meanings behind these names and the individuals who assigned them? Look no further than the Romans for the origins.
When one thinks of Italy, the initial mental images typically include pizza, pasta, a rich tapestry of art and culture, and, of course, the expressive manner in which Italians communicate. It's impossible to discuss the Italian language without acknowledging the intertwined culture of hand gestures that accompanies it.
Let's set the record straight from the beginning: the invention of pasta cannot be credited to the Chinese, and it did not find its way to Italians through Marco Polo. Instead, its origins can be traced back to Arab Sicily, from where it gradually spread throughout Italy, making notable stops in Naples and Genoa. This is the intriguing tale behind the dish that symbolizes Italian cuisine.
