Sicily, the heart of the Mediterranean, is a land rich in culture, history, and tradition. Among its many fascinating aspects, Sicilian superstitions stand out as an intriguing blend of folklore, religion, and ancient customs. These beliefs, passed down through generations, provide a unique insight into the Sicilian way of life, offering both cautionary tales and comforting rituals.

The Evil Eye: Malocchio

One of the most well-known Sicilian superstitions is the fear of the "evil eye," or malocchio. This belief holds that envy or jealousy directed toward someone can bring them misfortune or illness. To ward off the malocchio, Sicilians often use protective symbols like the corno (a horn-shaped amulet) or the mano cornuta (a hand gesture with the index and pinky fingers extended). Additionally, wearing red or carrying blessed items is thought to protect against this malevolent force.

Never Open Umbrellas Indoors

A common superstition in Sicily is the taboo against opening umbrellas indoors. This act is believed to invite bad luck, as umbrellas symbolize protection. Opening one inside is seen as an insult to the household's protective spirits, leading to misfortune.

Bread as a Sacred Symbol

In Sicilian culture, bread is more than just food; it holds deep spiritual significance. Dropping a loaf of bread is considered highly disrespectful because bread is seen as a divine gift, often associated with Christ's body in Catholic traditions. If bread is dropped accidentally, it must be kissed as an apology to avoid bad luck.

Knives and Gifts

Giving a knife as a gift is another Sicilian superstition to be mindful of. Knives symbolize cutting ties or severing relationships. To counter this, the recipient often gives a small coin in return, transforming the gift into a "purchase" and preserving the bond between giver and receiver.

Sweeping Feet and Marriage

In Sicily, sweeping the floor carelessly can lead to sweeping away someone’s chances of getting married. If a broom touches an unmarried person's feet, it is believed they will never find a spouse. This superstition highlights the deep-rooted connection between daily chores and symbolic meanings in Sicilian life.

Friday the 17th

While much of the Western world dreads Friday the 13th, Sicilians have their own unlucky day: Friday the 17th. The number 17, when written in Roman numerals (XVII), can be rearranged to spell "VIXI," meaning "I have lived" in Latin—a phrase associated with death. As a result, Friday the 17th is avoided for major events like weddings or travel.

The Power of Blessings

Despite these superstitions, blessings play a significant role in Sicilian culture. Families often call upon their Nonna or a local priest to perform blessings for protection, particularly for newborns, new homes, or even new ventures. These rituals embody a blend of faith and folklore, ensuring a sense of security and prosperity.

Embracing Sicilian Heritage

Superstitions in Sicily are more than quirky beliefs; they are an integral part of its rich cultural fabric. They reflect the island’s history, blending influences from ancient Greek, Roman, and Catholic traditions. For Sicilians and those with Sicilian heritage, these superstitions are not merely old wives' tales but treasured customs that connect them to their roots.

At Lemon & Lava, we celebrate Sicilian culture and its vibrant traditions, including the fascinating world of superstitions. Whether through a mug that nods to malocchio or a hoodie showcasing symbols of protection, our designs keep these stories alive, allowing you to carry a piece of Sicily wherever you go.

Explore our collection and embrace the spirit of Sicily—superstitions and all!