Italian philosophy of life in contrasts (p. 15): Pasqua
Very soon, with the early arrival of spring in late March, families in Italy will gather together, exchange chocolate eggs, and cut “Colomba” on the festive table. What event is approaching? Settimana Santa (Holy Week), followed by Easter!
In Italy, this is not just another holiday but a special time to honor ancient traditions and customs. This significant religious celebration also symbolizes the beginning of true spring.
In the lead-up to the holiday, temples and cathedrals in Italy are adorned with flowers, palm branches, or olive branches. After the Easter procession, Italians bring home blessed branches as a divine symbol of peace. The last Sunday before Easter is called Palm Sunday. According to tradition, when Jesus entered the city of Jerusalem, his path was lined with branches of olive and palm trees, symbolizing love for peace.
The week before Easter is called Holy Week (Settimana Santa). All the shops transform, showcasing dozens of gift sets, Easter cakes called Colomba (Dove), and chocolate eggs (either hollow or containing a toy inside).
The Dove symbolizes calmness, serenity, and peace during the Easter period. The traditional Colomba recipe differs from the Christmas Panettone. Colomba doesn’t contain only candied fruit and raisins but often includes almonds. The dough is prepared with natural yeast. The Easter cake is typically decorated with sugar sprinkles and nuts on top, rather than icing.
The celebration of Easter itself begins on Good Friday when the famous Way of the Cross procession takes place. In Rome, an extensive and grand procession with the Pope goes from the Colosseum to the Palatine Hill. The event is accompanied by theatrical scenes from the life of Jesus. On Easter Sunday, the Pope blesses all the people gathered in the main square of the Vatican before St. Peter’s Basilica. The day following Easter is il Lunedì dell’Angelo or Pasquetta. It is believed that on this day, an angel appeared to people with the news of Christ’s resurrection.
In Italy, holidays are primarily an opportunity to spend time with family, close ones, and loved ones. A significant and bright celebration like Easter unites the members of each family, teaching them to share love, care, attention, joy, and appreciate every moment spent together. And in these festive nuances, the Italian way of life is clearly reflected!
Let’s go “from tourism to lifestyle”.
