Like any country, Italy has certain cultural norms and sensitivities that should be respected. While Italy is generally an open and tolerant society, there are some gestures, words, and behaviors that are considered rude or offensive. Understanding what is and isn’t appropriate can help you avoid causing upset or misunderstandings during your time in Italy.
Gestures to Avoid
Some common hand gestures have very different meanings in Italy compared to other places. Here are some to be mindful of:
The “Corna” Gesture
Making a fist with your pinky and index finger raised is an offensive gesture in Italy. This is known as the “corna” or “horn” sign and has a similar meaning to giving someone the middle finger. It implies that a person is being cheated on or cuckolded. Needless to say, this is not a polite gesture to use in public.
“Money Fingers”
Rubbing your thumb against your index and middle finger to signify money is also considered very rude. It implies someone is greedy or only concerned about money over anything else.
Thumbs Up
While common in many places, giving a thumbs up in Italy has an entirely different meaning. It roughly translates to “Up yours” or “Sit on this”. Only use it if you intend to seriously insult someone.
“The Cutis”
Running your finger across your neck as a threat is not a gesture you want to throw around. It signifies that you plan to slit someone’s throat and should be avoided.
Words and Phrases to Avoid
Some words that are innocuous in English have very different connotations in Italy:
“Coglione”
This literally translates to “testicle” but has a meaning more similar to calling someone a “dick”. It is considered very offensive.
“Vaffanculo”
Roughly means “go f*** yourself”. It’s an extremely rude and offensive phrase. Don’t say this unless you are looking for a serious confrontation.
“Che palle”
While directly translating to “what balls”, this phrase actually expresses irritation or boredom with someone or something. Use it carefully only around friends if you must.
“Puttana”
This is one of the worst insults you can use, equivalent to calling a woman a “whore”. It’s inflammatory enough to provoke someone into violence.
Topics to Avoid
In addition to profanity, there are some topics of conversation that are best avoided in Italy:
Politics
Politics is a sensitive subject. Don’t insult or criticize Italian politicians and political parties unless you know your company very well.
Religion
Italy is home to the Vatican and predominantly Roman Catholic. Be respectful when discussing religion, as strongly worded criticism can cause offence.
The Mafia
Italians dislike stereotypes implying that the Mafia is commonplace in Italy. References to organized crime should be avoided.
Mussolini and Fascism
Remarks glorifying Mussolini or fascism will not be well received given Italy’s history living under the Fascist dictatorship.
Southern and Northern Divisions
There are cultural tensions between Italy’s north and south. Negative generalizations about southern or northern Italians can give offense.
Food and Coffee
Italians are proud of their cuisine and coffee culture. Insulting Italian food and coffee traditions is a major faux pas.
Behavior to Avoid
Some behaviors that are acceptable elsewhere won’t be well received in Italy:
Being Loud in Public
Italians generally speak at lower volumes in public than other cultures. Speaking loudly can be seen as rude.
Not Dressing Modestly
Revealing clothing can be considered inappropriate, especially when entering churches. Cover shoulders and knees when sightseeing.
Disregarding Lines
Never skip queues or jump the line at shops and ticket booths. Italians are extremely orderly when queueing.
Being Pushy
Shoving your way onto buses or trains before passengers have disembarked is considered very rude. Queue patiently instead.
Snapping Fingers for Service
Snapping for a waiter’s attention is acceptable some places but don’t do it in Italy. Simply make eye contact to summon service politely.
Not Dressing for Church
Entering a church without proper attire (covering legs and shoulders) is offensive. Italians dress modestly for religious sites.
Touchy Subjects in the North vs South
There are some cultural differences between northern and southern Italy to keep in mind:
Northern Italy
– Wealth disparities between north and south
– Northern League separatist political party
– Painting southerners as lazy or criminals
Southern Italy
– Negative stereotypes about southerners
– Criticizing traditional ways of life in the south
– Mocking southern accents and dialects
Avoid blanket generalizations about north or south, as regional identities are a sensitive issue. Appreciate Italy’s diversity.
Conclusion
While Italy has progressive attitudes in many ways, it’s still important to avoid certain gestures, language, conversations, and behaviors to show respect. With its complex history and regional identities, social norms vary across Italy. Get to know local customs wherever you visit.
Being thoughtful about these cultural sensitivities will help you avoid uncomfortable or confrontational situations. Italians will greatly appreciate you making an effort to integrate and understand their cultural dos and don’ts. No place is 100% offensive-proof, but avoiding these major faux pas will ensure you make the best impression on any Italian you encounter.