Other Italy

Getting current news in Italy is important for everyone living or planning to live in this country. It is essential to stay informed about the latest events, changes in legislation, and cultural events. Here are some ways to stay up to date with Italian news, with a focus on social media and English-language resources.

1. Social Media

Social media is one of the most convenient ways to get news, as many Italian news outlets actively maintain their pages on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and other platforms.

Facebook:

La Repubblica: One of the largest Italian newspapers covering political, economic, and cultural events. By subscribing to their Facebook page, you will receive updates directly in your news feed.

Corriere della Sera: Another popular publication providing current news from across Italy. Their Facebook group also allows participation in discussions and sharing opinions.

Twitter:

@ansa_it: The official account of ANSA, a leading Italian news agency. They post brief updates and breaking news.

@Agenzia_Adnkronos: Another major agency offering news in Italian.

Instagram:

@skytg24: Sky TG24 is a popular news channel actively running their Instagram, posting videos, stories, and real-time news.

@fanpage.it: Fanpage.it is a media platform with a large Instagram following. They cover not only news but also social, cultural, and entertainment topics.

English-language Resources

If you prefer to get news in English, there are several resources that can be useful:

The Local Italy: One of the leading English-language resources offering news, analysis, and practical information for expats. Topics range from politics and economics to culture and life in Italy.

Italy Magazine: A platform providing not only news but also articles about culture, travel, and Italian cuisine. Here you will find interesting materials for both tourists and those living in Italy.

Wanted in Rome: A resource aimed at English-speaking residents of Rome and other cities in Italy. They publish news, cultural articles, and practical advice on living in Italy.

Mobile Applications

For those who prefer to receive news on the go, there are mobile applications that provide fresh news notifications:

ANSA: The official ANSA agency app allows you to receive news in real-time, customize notifications on topics of interest, and share news on social networks.

Corriere della Sera: This leading Italian publication's app offers news, articles, and videos. You can set notifications for topics that interest you the most.

YouTube Channels

Many Italian news agencies also run their channels on YouTube, where they publish videos, interviews, and analytical materials:

Sky TG24: Publishes news stories, interviews, and analytical programs. The channel is actively updated, providing viewers with the opportunity to stay informed about the latest events.

Rai News: The official channel of the Italian state television RAI, where current news and reports are published.

Conclusion: Whether you prefer to get news via social networks, English-language resources, or mobile applications, there are numerous ways to stay updated on the latest events in Italy. By using these tools, you'll always be aware of what's happening in the country and the world.

Italy, as one of the most famous and visited countries in the world, is surrounded by many stereotypes, many of which stem from cultural and historical aspects, as well as pop culture. Here are some of the most common stereotypes about the country:

 

Italians always drink espresso and eat pizza

   - The stereotype that Italians live on espresso and pizza is quite widespread. Although pizza and espresso are indeed integral parts of Italian culinary culture, Italian cuisine is much more diverse. Each region has its own gastronomic traditions, such as pasta in Emilia-Romagna, seafood in Campania, or risotto in Lombardy.

 

Italians always look stylish

   - Italy is known as the fashion capital of the world, and the stereotype that Italians are always dressed to the nines is partly true. Many Italians do indeed pay great attention to their appearance and clothing, but that doesn't mean every resident of the country follows the latest fashion trends. This is more related to the cultural importance of a presentable appearance than strict following of fashion.

 

Italians speak loudly and gesticulate actively

   - Another popular stereotype is that Italians speak loudly and gesticulate a lot. This stereotype has some basis, as gestures are an important part of Italian communication. However, this does not mean that every Italian speaks loudly or constantly uses gestures, but it may be characteristic of the southern regions of the country.

 

Italy is a country of the mafia

   - The stereotype of the mafia in Italy is reinforced by movies and series such as "The Godfather." Although the mafia does have historical roots in southern Italy, modern Italians, especially in the central and northern regions, live ordinary lives, and for most, the mafia is not part of everyday reality. Italian authorities actively fight organized crime.

 

Italians are always late

   - There is an opinion that Italians are often late or do not adhere to a strict schedule. This is associated with a more relaxed attitude towards time in some parts of the country, especially in the south. However, this is not a common characteristic of all Italians, and in many professional situations, punctuality is valued as highly as in other European countries.

 

Italy is a country of spaghetti and mandolins

   - This stereotype stems from early pop culture and the romanticization of Italy. It includes the idea of the country as a place where mandolin music is everywhere, and people eat spaghetti outdoors. The reality is much richer and more diverse, and modern Italy is a combination of traditions and modern achievements in culture, science, and economics.

 

Stereotypes about Italy may reflect some aspects of the culture, but they often simplify or exaggerate reality. When traveling through Italy or communicating with Italians, it is important to remember that the country and its people are much more complex and multifaceted than stereotypes may suggest.

Transportation Apps

Trenitalia: The official application of the Italian railway company Trenitalia. It allows you to buy tickets, check train schedules, and receive travel notifications. This application is especially useful for traveling between cities and regions of Italy.

Italo Treno: An app for Italo trains that compete with Trenitalia on high-speed routes. It allows you to book tickets, check train status, and manage trips.

Moovit: Helps navigate public transportation in major Italian cities such as Rome, Milan, Florence, and others. Moovit provides real-time information on bus, tram, metro, and train routes, along with delay notifications.

myCicero: An app that combines parking payment, public transport ticket purchases, train trip bookings, and bike rentals. Very convenient for active users of urban transport.

Government Apps

IO: This is the main government app used to access various state services and information. It allows you to pay taxes, receive notifications from government bodies, manage bonuses and subsidies, and tackle many other tasks related to interacting with government institutions.

Immuni: An app developed by the Italian government to track contacts and prevent the spread of COVID-19. It helps users learn about possible contacts with infected individuals while ensuring anonymity and data security.

Everyday Life Apps

Esselunga: An app for one of Italy's largest supermarkets. Allows you to order groceries online, manage discount cards, and get information on special offers and promotions.

Just Eat: An app for ordering food from restaurants throughout Italy. It includes many restaurants offering diverse world cuisines. It allows you to choose nearby restaurants, pay for your order online, and track delivery in real time.

Glovo: A delivery service that lets you order food, goods, and send parcels within the city. It operates in most major Italian cities.

Too Good To Go: An app aimed at fighting food waste. Allows you to buy products and meals at a reduced price from restaurants and supermarkets that would otherwise be discarded.

Language Learning and Communication Apps

Duolingo: A popular app for learning Italian. It offers interactive lessons to help improve language skills, whether it's reading, writing, or speaking.

HelloTalk: A language exchange app that allows you to practice Italian with native speakers. You can communicate through text messages, voice, and video calls, enhancing your language skills.

Apps for Banking and Financial Transactions

Revolut: An international banking app supporting multiple currencies, including the euro. It allows easy management of finances, money transfers, expense tracking, and making payments. Revolut also offers convenient cards for purchases and cash withdrawals without fees.

Satispay: An Italian mobile payment app allowing purchases in stores, bill payments, and money transfers to friends without using a bank card. Satispay is becoming increasingly popular among locals.

Italy is a country with a rich cultural tradition and numerous entertainment opportunities. Here you can find a variety of events and recreational activities that attract both locals and tourists.

 

Festivals and Cultural Events

   - Venice Carnival: One of the most famous and spectacular carnivals in the world, held annually in February-March. The streets of Venice are filled with people in masks and Renaissance costumes, and the city transforms into a grand stage for masquerade balls, parades, and performances.

   - Sanremo Festival: This is the main music festival in Italy, held in the city of Sanremo since 1951. It is considered a prestigious music venue where the best Italian performers and musicians take the stage.

   - Calcio Storico Fiorentino: A historic event held every June in Florence. It is a combination of football, rugby, and wrestling, based on 16th-century traditions.

 

Museums and Galleries

   - Uffizi Gallery: Located in Florence, the Uffizi Gallery is one of the most renowned art galleries in the world. It houses masterpieces by artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Raphael.

 - Vatican Museums: Rome is home to some of the most famous museums in the world, including the Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo's frescoes. The Vatican Museums attract millions of tourists every year.

 

Opera Theaters and Concerts

 - La Scala: Milan's La Scala theater is one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world. Regular opera performances, ballet shows, and concerts featuring world stars take place here.

 - Arena di Verona: The ancient amphitheater in Verona is known for its open-air opera performances. The summer opera season at Arena di Verona is a world-class event.

 

Sporting Events

 - Football: Football is the main sporting passion of Italians. Serie A matches, the Champions League, and the national team matches draw large crowds at stadiums and in front of TVs. Clubs like Juventus, Milan, and Inter have millions of fans worldwide.

 - Cycling: Cycling is also popular in Italy, especially the Giro d'Italia race, which is one of the most prestigious bicycle races in the world.

 

Film Festivals

 - Venice Film Festival: One of the oldest and most prestigious film festivals in the world, held annually in September. It attracts leading directors, actors, and film enthusiasts from all over the world.

 

Culinary Tours and Wine Festivals

 - Wine Tours: Italy is famous for its wines, such as Chianti, Barolo, and Prosecco. Wine tours and festivals, like Vinitaly in Verona, offer the opportunity to taste the country's best wines.

 - Gastronomic Tours: Culinary tours in Italian regions such as Tuscany, Emilia-Romagna, and Campania allow you to discover local delicacies, traditions, and secrets of Italian cuisine.

 

Thus, Italy offers a wide range of cultural and entertainment events, ranging from historical and religious festivals to sporting events and opera performances. No matter what kinds of leisure activities interest you, in Italy, you'll find plenty of opportunities for a rich and exciting experience.

In Italy, public toilets are available in most major cities and tourist areas, but their number and quality may vary depending on the location.

 

Tourist zones:

   - In major tourist cities like Rome, Florence, Venice, and Milan, public toilets are usually located near main attractions, train stations, and parks. For example, in St. Mark's Square in Venice or near the Colosseum in Rome, you can find paid toilets.

   - Entry to such toilets is most often paid, with costs ranging from 0.50 to 1.50 euros. The fee is usually collected in cash, although at some places you can pay by card.

 

Shopping centers and stores:

   - Many shopping centers and large stores (such as supermarkets) have free toilets. They are usually well-maintained, especially in new and modern centers.

 

Cafes and restaurants:

   - In Italy, it is customary to use the toilet in a cafe or restaurant provided you order something. If you urgently need a toilet, ordering a cup of coffee can be a solution.

   - In large cities, there are sometimes cafes where you need a code to enter the toilet, which can be obtained after making a purchase.

 

Gas stations and highways:

   - On highways in Italy, gas stations and roadside services also offer public toilets. They are usually free and open 24/7, though the quality may vary greatly.

 

Railway and bus stations:

   - Stations in major cities are often equipped with public toilets. Usually, such toilets are paid, and their cleanliness is maintained at a reasonably high level.

Language courses in language schools

   Schools offer intensive Italian language courses for international students in different cities of Italy, such as Rome, Florence, Milan, and Siena. Courses range from basic to advanced levels and include both grammar and practical language use in everyday life.

   - Università per Stranieri di Perugia and Università per Stranieri di Siena: These universities specialize in teaching Italian language and culture to foreigners. Here you can take short-term courses or full-fledged study programs.

 

Online courses and applications

 - Duolingo and Babbel: Popular language learning apps that offer basic and advanced Italian lessons. These platforms are convenient for self-paced language learning anytime and anywhere.

 - Coursera and edX: These platforms offer Italian language courses from leading universities and language schools. Some courses include video lectures, exercises, and certification upon completion.

 

Private lessons and tutors

 - Preply and iTalki: These platforms connect students with qualified Italian language teachers for individual lessons. You can choose teachers based on their ratings, reviews, and prices.

 - Local tutors: In Italy, you can find tutors who offer private lessons. This can be useful for those who prefer face-to-face lessons and an individual approach.

 

Language exchanges and tandems

 - Meetup and Tandem: Platforms where you can find language exchange partners. This is a great way to practice conversational skills by communicating with native speakers who want to learn your native language.

 - Language clubs: In major cities in Italy, language club meetings are held where foreigners can practice Italian in an informal setting.

 

Immersion in the environment

 - Communicating with locals: An important part of learning a language is immersion in the language environment. Regular communication with Italians, whether in a store, café, or at work, helps in faster language adaptation.

 - Participating in local cultural events: Attending theaters, cinemas, exhibitions, and festivals also helps in better understanding the language and culture.

 

Self-study and educational materials

 - Books and study guides: Classic textbooks, such as "Italiano per Stranieri" or "Nuovo Espresso," can be useful for self-study of the language.

 - Audio and video resources: Italian language podcasts, such as "Coffee Break Italian," and educational videos on YouTube (for example, "Learn Italian with Lucrezia") can supplement learning and assist with listening comprehension.

 

The choice of Italian learning methods depends on your goals, time, and preferences. For effective learning, it's important to combine several methods — courses, apps, communication with native speakers, and self-study. This ensures comprehensive language skill development and helps in faster adaptation in Italy.

In Italy, holidays and traditions play an important role in people's lives, reflecting the rich culture and history of the country. 

 

New Year — January 1

   - Traditions: New Year in Italy is celebrated with fireworks, family dinners, and festivities in city squares. One of the symbols of the holiday is serving lentils, which symbolize wealth and luck in the coming year. On New Year's Eve, it is also customary to wear red underwear for good luck.

 

Epiphany — January 6

   - Traditions: Epiphany concludes the Christmas holidays in Italy. The main tradition is the arrival of the good witch Befana, who brings sweets and gifts to children. Children who have behaved poorly might receive pieces of coal (usually sweets resembling coal).

 

Easter 

   - Date: Easter is a movable feast and is celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox.

   - Traditions: In Italy, Easter is an important religious holiday. During Holy Week, numerous processions take place, especially in the southern regions. It is customary to give each other chocolate eggs and eat traditional dishes, such as "colomba" — an Easter dove-shaped cake.

 

Liberation Day — April 25

   - Historical significance: This day is commemorated in memory of Italy's liberation from fascism in 1945.

   - Traditions: Liberation Day is accompanied by official ceremonies, rallies, and concerts. In many cities, parades and wreath-laying ceremonies at World War II memorials take place.

 

Labor Day — May 1

   - Traditions: This day marks workers' rights and is celebrated with rallies and demonstrations across the country. One of the most famous events is a free concert in San Giovanni Square in Rome, which attracts thousands of spectators.

 

Republic Day — June 2

   - Historical significance: Republic Day celebrates the 1946 referendum when Italians voted to establish a republic and renounce the monarchy.

   - Traditions: The main events take place in Rome, including a military parade on Via dei Fori Imperiali and wreath-laying at the Altar of the Fatherland.

 

Ferragosto — August 15

   - Historical significance: The holiday has ancient Roman roots, but today it coincides with the religious Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

   - Traditions: Ferragosto marks the height of summer and is a traditional vacation period in Italy. People go to the seaside, organize picnics, and festive dinners. In some regions, colorful festivals and fireworks take place.

 

All Saints' Day — November 1

   - Traditions: On this day, Italians visit cemeteries to honor the memory of their deceased loved ones. They clean the cemeteries and decorate the graves with flowers and candles.

 

Christmas — December 25

   - Traditions: Christmas in Italy is a family holiday when people gather around the festive table to enjoy traditional dishes such as panettone, torrone, and various types of pasta. Christmas markets and nativity scenes, which can be seen in churches and homes throughout Italy, are also popular during this period.

 

National holidays and traditions in Italy are deeply rooted in the culture and religion of the country. They are an important part of Italian identity and offer a wonderful opportunity to explore the cultural heritage and traditions of this remarkable nation.

Italy is a country with an incredibly rich cultural and historical heritage, offering visitors many unique attractions. Here are a few places that are a must-see when traveling through Italy.

 

Rome

   - Colosseum: One of the most famous monuments of antiquity, the Colosseum is a symbol of Rome and all of Italy. It is a vast amphitheater built in the 1st century AD, once accommodating up to 50,000 spectators. Today, it is one of the world’s major tourist attractions.

   - Vatican and St. Peter's Basilica: The Vatican is the center of the Catholic Church and home to the Pope. St. Peter's Basilica is a majestic building housing works by Michelangelo and other masterpieces.

 

Florence 

   - Uffizi Gallery: This art gallery in Florence is one of the most renowned in the world. It houses a collection of Renaissance artworks, including works by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Raphael.

   - Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore: This cathedral with its famous dome designed by Brunelleschi is the main symbol of Florence and one of the most majestic churches in Italy.

 

Venice

   - St. Mark's Square: The main square of Venice, surrounded by historical buildings, including St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. The square is often referred to as the "living room of Europe".

   - The Grand Canal: The main canal of Venice, where gondolas and water buses navigate. A tour on the Grand Canal offers views of many historical palaces and bridges.

 

Milan 

   - Milan Cathedral: One of the largest and most intricate Gothic cathedrals in the world. Its construction lasted nearly six centuries. The cathedral is an important religious and cultural center.

   - La Scala Theatre: One of the most famous opera houses in the world, where you can enjoy world-class performances.

 

Naples and Pompeii 

   - Archaeological Park of Pompeii: Destroyed by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD, the city of Pompeii is one of the most amazing archaeological sites in the world, where you can see well-preserved houses, streets, and temples.

   - Naples: This city is known for its rich culture, history, and cuisine, especially pizza, which originated here.

 

Tuscany 

   - Siena: This city is famous for its medieval architecture, including the Piazza del Campo, where the famous Palio horse race takes place each year.

   - Wine regions: Tuscany is renowned for its wines, especially Chianti. Wine tours in the regions of Tuscany offer a great opportunity to enjoy local wines and scenic landscapes.

 

Sicily 

   - Valley of the Temples in Agrigento: One of the largest and most significant archaeological monuments of ancient Greece. It features well-preserved Doric temples.

   - Palermo: The capital of Sicily, known for its mixed culture, architecture, and gastronomy. Be sure to visit the Cathedral and the Norman Palace.

 

Whether you're interested in architecture, art, nature, or cuisine, Italy has something special for every traveler.

Etiquette and rules of conduct in society in Italy have their own peculiarities, which are important to consider to avoid misunderstandings and better understand the local culture.

 

Greetings

   - Handshake: When meeting, Italians typically exchange a handshake, especially in business and official situations. It should be firm and accompanied by direct eye contact.

   - Cheek kisses: In informal settings, especially among friends and acquaintances, it is customary to kiss on both cheeks, starting with the right. However, this is not always applicable upon first meeting.

 

Communication and language

   - Volume and gestures: Italians are known for their emotionality and lively communication. They often speak louder than is customary in other countries and gesture actively. This is not a sign of aggression but a part of their cultural expression.

   - Titles and formalities: When addressing strangers or in official settings, it is customary to use titles, such as "Signore" (Mr.) or "Signora" (Ms.), often with the last name. In business circles, it is important to maintain a certain degree of formality.

 

Punctuality

   - Time and punctuality: While Italians generally value punctuality, especially in business situations, small delays are possible in informal circumstances. Meetings with friends or family gatherings may start with a slight delay, which is considered quite normal.

 

Lunch and dinner

   - Invitation to lunch/dinner: If you are invited to someone's home for lunch or dinner, it is appropriate to bring a small gift for the hosts, such as a bottle of wine, flowers, or sweets. It's important not to bring overly expensive gifts to avoid putting the hosts in an uncomfortable situation.

   - At the table: Certain rules are observed during meals. It is customary to start eating only after the host gives the signal. Leaving food on the plate should be avoided as it may be perceived as a sign that you did not like the dish.

 

Public interaction

   - Queues and personal space: Italians are usually patient in queues, but the concept of personal space may differ slightly from other cultures. For example, people may stand closer to each other in queues or on the street.

 - Volume in public places: In Italy, it is not considered inappropriate to speak louder in public places, whether in a cafe, restaurant, or on the street. It is part of the communication culture.

 

Clothing and Appearance

 - Clothing Style: Italians place great emphasis on appearance. Even in everyday life, they try to look stylish and well-groomed. In public places and restaurants, it is preferable to dress appropriately, avoiding overly casual or sloppy clothing.

 - Religious Places: When visiting churches or other religious institutions, one should dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.

 

Tipping

 - Tipping: In Italy, tipping is not mandatory but always appreciated. In restaurants, tips usually amount to 5-10% of the bill if the service was of high quality. In cafes and bars, it is customary to leave small change.

 

 

Etiquette and rules of conduct in Italy reflect the rich cultural tradition of the country. Respecting these norms will help you better integrate into the local society and establish warmer and friendlier relationships with Italians.

The local government system in Italy is based on the principles of decentralization of power, allowing various levels of administration to manage local affairs and ensure the provision of public services on the ground. The structure of local government in Italy includes several levels of governing bodies, each performing specific functions.

Commune 

 - Description: The commune is the basic administrative level in Italy, similar to a municipality or city. There are over 7,900 communes in Italy, each with its own mayor, city council, and executive body. Communes are responsible for managing local services such as water supply, street cleaning, educational institutions, local health care, and other everyday issues.

 - Governing Bodies:

 - Mayor: The head of the commune, elected by the population in direct elections for a term of 5 years. The mayor is responsible for implementing city council decisions and overseeing the work of the executive body.

     - City Council: A representative body also elected by the residents of the commune. The council enacts local laws, approves the budget, and oversees the work of the mayor and the executive body.

     - Executive Body: A collegial body appointed by the mayor, which is responsible for managing various sectors of life in the commune, such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

 

Province 

   - Description: A province is an intermediate level of administrative division between a commune and a region. Nowadays, many provinces have transformed into metropolitan cities, but provinces continue to play an important role in governance. They coordinate the activities of communes and are responsible for major infrastructure projects, transport, environmental protection, and support for economic development.

   - Governing Bodies:

     - President of the Province: Indirectly elected from among the mayors and city council members of the communes within the province.

     - Provincial Council: Manages and coordinates the activities of the communes within the province.

 

Region 

   - Description: Italy is divided into 20 regions, each endowed with significant powers in healthcare, education, transport, and economic development. Some regions (such as Sicily, Sardinia, Trentino-Alto Adige) have autonomous status, granting them additional powers.

   - Governing Bodies:

     - President of the Region: The head of the regional administration, elected by direct vote. The president of the region leads the executive body of the region.

     - Regional Council: The legislative body of the region, which enacts regional laws and approves the budget.

 

National Authorities and Their Interaction with Local Government

Central Government

   - The central government of Italy is responsible for issues beyond the competence of regions and communes, such as defense, foreign policy, and macroeconomic policy. It also ensures compliance with national laws and regulates the distribution of financial resources across levels of self-government.

Constitutional Court 

   - The Constitutional Court of Italy ensures compliance with the Constitution, including the distribution of powers among different levels of authority. It addresses disputes between the central government and regions, as well as between different levels of local self-government.

Thus, the local self-government system in Italy is based on the principles of decentralization and subsidiarity, allowing each level of authority to manage issues that are closest to the interests of local residents. This ensures flexibility in decision-making and the ability to consider regional characteristics in the management of the country.