The Evil Eye (malocchio), the red crescent-shaped amulet (cornicello) and the unlucky number 17: Superstition is very much alive in Italy—and is full of little rituals that even skeptics take part in. Here are the most important symbols, numbers, and taboos you’ll encounter time and again in Italy.
Il malocchio: the evil eye
The malocchio is the belief that envy or the evil eye bring misfortune—headaches, bad luck, and a bad mood. Protection is offered by the corna gesture downward, an amulet, or a pinch of salt. In southern Italy, some people „read“ the malocchio with drops of oil in water and perform a ritual to counteract it.
Il cornicello: the red croissant
The cornicello (also curniciello) is a curved, coral-red crescent—arguably Italy’s best-known symbol of good luck, especially in Naples. It is hung on keychains, rearview mirrors, and necklaces and is said to ward off bad luck and the evil eye. According to tradition, it is important that it given away will be purchased, not bought by the customer.
The secret of the Cornicello: all about Naples' famous lucky charm
The Cornicello (also known as Curniciello in Neapolitan) is a small, red-lacquered horn amulet that has served as a symbol of protection and a good-luck charm for centuries. The name is derived from the Italian word *corno* with the diminutive suffix *-cello*...
Friday the 17th, not the 13th.
In Italy, it's not 13, but the 17 the unlucky number. The reason: The Roman numeral XVII can be written as VIXI „umstellen“—Latin for "I have lived," meaning: I am dead. Accordingly, the following applies: Friday, the 17th, Friday the 17th, is considered an unlucky day. The number 13, on the other hand, actually brings good luck to many Italians.
Other Customs & Taboos
- Touching iron: Instead of knocking on wood, in Italy people „touch iron“ to ward off bad luck.
- Bread the Right Way: A loaf of bread with the bottom side facing up is considered bad luck.
- No hats on the bed: According to an old belief, it brings bad luck.
- Spilling salt: Bad luck—throw a pinch over your left shoulder.
- Do not clink glasses crosswise: at the cheers look each other in the eyes.
In a Nutshell
Malocchio, cornicello and Friday the 17th, considered an unlucky day, are part of everyday life in Italy—usually taken with a grain of salt. You can read more about the corna and their two meanings at the Italian gestures, more background in the Italian everyday culture.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions About Superstitions in Italy
Sources
- Treccani – Italian Superstitions (accessed in June 2026)
- Focus.it – Why 17 Brings Bad Luck (accessed in June 2026)
