Italy is known for art, food, and history. It is also known for superstition. Many people still follow old beliefs in daily life. If you study Italian or plan to visit, these customs help you understand the culture.

The Unlucky Number 17

In Italy, 17 is the unlucky number. The Roman numeral XVII can be rearranged to spell VIXI, which means “I have lived.” Romans used it on tombs. Because of this link to death, some hotels skip room 17. Some airlines skip row 17.

Bread Must Face Up

Never place bread upside down on the table. Bread has deep value in Italian life. It is food, tradition, and a symbol of respect. Turning it over is seen as careless and brings bad luck.

No Umbrellas Indoors

Do not open an umbrella indoors. People say it invites bad luck. Long ago, umbrellas were costly and linked to protection. Opening one inside looked like a challenge to fate.

The Evil Eye

Many Italians believe in the malocchio, or evil eye. It is harm caused by envy. To guard against it, people wear a red horn charm called a cornicello. Others make a horn hand sign. You will see both across Italy.

Never Put a Hat on a Bed

A hat on a bed is a bad sign. In the past, priests placed their hats on the bed when they came to give last rites. The act became linked to death. The belief remains today.

Sneezing Means Someone Is Talking About You

If you sneeze while someone mentions a person, people may say that person speaks well of you. It is a small, friendly superstition that still appears in conversation.

Why This Matters for Language Learners

Language and culture go together. These beliefs show how Italians think and speak. They also explain jokes, gestures, and habits you may see.

At Strømmen, we teach both language and culture. When you learn why people avoid 17 or carry a charm, you connect in a deeper way.

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