5 Tempting Reasons Why You Should Learn Italian (Hint: Pasta is just the start!)

There are about 7,139 languages spoken in the world today. So choosing what foreign language to learn can be quite a task and not to mention time-consuming. But, once you’ve chosen the right language to master, then your journey begins. 

If you’re still trying to decide what language to learn, give Italian a try? 

Italian is one of the five romance languages and known to be the closest to Latin. When it’s spoken, it sounds very romantic and melodic. In fact, Italian is even considered as one of the most beautiful languages in the world.

Italian is the language of food, music, and love. Think about pizza, pasta, coffee and cake. Let’s not forget Antonio Vivaldi, Giacomo Puccini, and Giuseppe Verdi. Music terms like crescendo, diminuendo, and poco sostenuto. And some of Mozart’s operas like Don Giovanni, Le nozze di Figaro, and La clemenza di Tito. And, love…who doesn’t want to fall in love under the majestic blue Italian skies and the ever so beautiful Italian sceneries? 

Italian is also connected to art and architecture. Think about artists like Donatello and Sandro Botticelli and Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci and Raphael, and the list goes on. Some of the historic and famous Italian architecture include the Duomo Cathedral (Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore) in Florence, the Colosseum in Rome, the Doge’s Palace in Venice, and St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican City.

Interesting fact: If you’re ever in Rome, make a quick stop at the Trevi Fountain and don’t forget to toss a coin or three. Legend has it that tossing one coin means you will return to the city. Tossing two coins means you will return to the city and find love. Tossing three coins means you will return to the city, find love, and marry. Anyone got a spare change?

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There are many reasons why Italian is the perfect language to learn. But why else should you learn Italian?

Reason 1: Rich and Varied Italian Food

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It is a well-known fact that Italians are passionate about food. Food to many Italians is a ritual gathering and part of a family tradition. It is something that unites friends and family whatever time of day. So when we think of Italy, we can’t help but also think about Italian food like cacio e pepe, pizza margherita, tortelli, pesto, focaccia, calzone, gelato of different flavors and many more. 

Italy has a rich and varied food culture and Italian dishes differ across the country. Every region has its own set of ingredients and special dishes. In Northern Italy, the most common ingredients of Italian dishes involve fish, potatoes, rice, sausages, and different kinds of wine and cheese. In Southern Italy, capers, peppers, olives and olive oil, garlic, eggplant, and ricotta cheese are more common. Tomatoes – served fresh or cooked into the sauce –  are also very popular in many Southern Italian cuisines.

Reason 2: Italian people

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Italy is a beautiful country, but what is more admirable is their love and loyalty to family. This idea may be a common stereotype seen on movies and TV shows but there is truth to this. In Italian culture, family or la famiglia plays an important role in an Italian’s life.

Italians spend time with their families on many occasions, whether it be on big celebrations or simple mealtimes. In some Italian households, many generations live on one roof. And grandparents even take part in helping with childcare when both parents are at work. 

Knowing the Italian language will help you see a different side of Italian culture. You will learn about its people and their traditions. So when in Italy, don’t be afraid to socialize and practice your Italian skills with the locals!

Reason 3: Italian History, Art, and Culture

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According to UNESCO, most of the world’s cultural heritage sites are in Italy. The country itself holds more important treasures and art pieces per square mile than any other country in the world. 

Italy has always been at the forefront of creativity and passion for life. Many of the most famous artists like Titian and Caravaggio are Italian and their contributions to the art world have been very influential to other artists.

Italy also produced some of the greatest scholars like Dante, Machiavelli, and Petrarch. These three thinkers contributed to many theories in philosophy, humanism, and literature. Since then, Italy has shared its ideas and culture across Europe and the rest of the world.

Reason 4: The Charm of Nonverbal Communication

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Ever heard of the stereotype that Italians speak with their hands? Well, we’re here to let you know that this classic stereotype is a fact. Italians do talk with their hands, and these gestures are not random. This type of nonverbal communication represents an expression, a reaction, and an emotion.

Some say that these gestures are passed from generation to generation. While many believe that these hand gestures speak louder than actual words. It isn’t a surprise that the Italian language has a dictionary of hand gestures. Such nonverbal ways of communication range from saying hello, asking a favor, showing feelings of disgust, to even keeping evil spirits away.

Reason 5: A Reason To Travel

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Italy remains one of the most visited countries in the world. This Mediterranean country has a rich history and is home to beautiful places like Florence, Rome, Milan, Sicily, Sardinia, Bologna, Amalfi, Sorrento, Ravello, and so many more. Its diverse and natural landscapes make the country look like a postcard wherever you look at it. So if you’re looking to travel to a place that is a mixture of both the past and the present, plan a trip to Italy and learn Italian along the way!  

Italians are friendly people, so immersing yourself in its culture will help you understand its beauty in different perspectives. Learning Italian will be beneficial for your future Italian adventures in the countryside, in the city, or wherever the narrow Italian road may take you.