CuriosITy
Discover some of the most curious stories of Made in Italy products.
From italian-made extraordinary creations, to the most important and revolutionary ideas of our compatriots.
#3 DANTE ALIGHIERI
Dante Alighieri is widely considered one of the greatest poets in history and a towering figure in Italian literature. Born in Florence in 1265, Dante’s impact on Italy and the world is immeasurable.
Italian poetry would not be whole without his works. His masterpiece, “The Divine Comedy,” is a poetic epic that describes Dante’s journey through hell, purgatory, and paradise. This monumental work is a testament to the human experience. Soon called the ’Sommo Poeta’ (or ’Supreme Poet), Dante revolutionized Italian poetry and became an Italian symbol abroad.
Dante helped to establish the Tuscan dialect as the standard Italian language, which is still in use today. His writings and his vision of a unified Italy continue to inspire thinkers and scholars today.
#2 THE VIOLIN
The violin is one of the most iconic and beloved musical instruments in the world. It has a rich history that spans several centuries, and its development can be traced back to the early 16th century, right in Italy.
The earliest known violins, in fact, were made by Andrea Amati in the city of Cremona, in the Italian region of Lombardy, in the mid-16th century.
The first four-stringed violin by Amati was dated 1555 and the oldest surviving of his instruments is from around 1560, but between 1542 and 1546 he also made several three-stringed violins.
Since then, his descendants continued to refine and improve the design of the instrument.
As the so-called “Cremonese school of violin making”, which included famous makers such as Antonio Stradivari and Giuseppe Guarneri.
Violins are one of the most known, admired and precious instruments of the world and due its origins to our country. Italian violins are spread and coveted all over the world, as living works of art that embody centuries of tradition, craftsmanship, and passion, and their impact on music and culture is immeasurable.
#1 THE MURANO GLASS
Murano glassworks is a world-renowned art form that has been produced on the small island of Murano, just off the coast of Venice.
Murano glass is known for its unique beauty and exquisite craftsmanship, and has become a symbol of luxury and style. Over the centuries, this art form has evolved into a highly skilled craft, with its own unique techniques and styles.
As a testament to the significance and value of this glass art, Murano has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Italy. Visitors to Murano can explore the Glass Museum (Museo del Vetro) in the Palazzo Giustinian, where they can learn about the history of glassmaking and view glass samples ranging from the ancient Egyptian era to the present day.
The art of Murano glass is Italy’s intangible cultural heritage and is appreciated and exported all over the world, showcasing the masterful artistry of its craftsmen and their dedication to the preservation of this unique and cherished art form.
