Much of Europe treats Pentecost Monday as an official holiday. So why doesn’t Italy, despite being known as one of the continent's most Catholic countries?
February 14th is famous the world over as Valentine’s Day – or as it’s known in Italian, 'la festa di San Valentino'. But where did the idea of a day dedicated to lovers come from? And was Saint Valentine himself really Italian?
New Year’s Eve is sometimes referred to as the 'festa di San Silvestro’ in Italy. But who was Saint Sylvester and how did his name come to be linked to the last day of the year?
Italy has modified its national anthem for the first time in decades, dropping a single word that Italians have been singing for generations but which never appeared in the original 1847 text.
Italian road rules require motorists in parts of the country to fit their vehicles with winter tires by November 15th. Here are the requirements (and penalties) for the cold season.
Despite its reputation for superficiality and showgirls, Italian TV has surprising depth and variety. Here are six shows to help you understand Italian society.
Italy's coffee culture is admired around the world, but it can be hard for foreigners to navigate its rules and norms. Here’s what you need to know to get your caffeine fix ‘all’italiana’.
A cornerstone of Italian culture, the 'tabaccheria' is used for much more than just buying cigarettes. From paying bills to purchasing bus tickets, here are just some of the services offered at the tobacconist's.
If you're spending the autumn months in Italy this year, you'll want to familiarise yourself with some key Italian words and phrases. From warm clothes to food festivals and seasonal produce, we've got you covered.
You may have seen their names dozens of times, but how much do you know about the people Italy’s streets are named after? From politicians to inventors, here's a look at some of the figures behind the country’s ‘vie’.
August 15th, or 'Ferragosto', is one of the most deeply felt Italian holidays, marking the height of summer. But why is it a public holiday in the first place?
Summer holidays in Italy mean workplaces emptying for weeks on end, a flood of 'out of office' replies from colleagues and clients, and deserted cities. But why is the long break so ingrained in Italian society?
