The piazza is essential to Italian culture. An Italian city without a piazza is like a zebra without stripes, still cool but not as fun. It is the magnetic force that brings people of all kinds together, young and old, artistic and athletic, all are drawn by the wonder that is the piazza.
There are many common features in most Italian piazzas. Very often there is a fountain, apart from being aesthetically pleasing, it is used very practically, as a place for people to relax and cool down. What I like about the fountain being in the middle is that most roads lead to it, so people from all different places and walks of life are meeting up in that one spot. Churches are also prominent in the piazzas. The general feel I get from piazzas is that they are a place for people of all kinds, and even though the prominence of churches may not prove this, I think people of all religions can find a way to appreciate the art and architecture.
Food is a big part of piazzas, and almost everywhere in Italy. This is definitely one of the most magnetic forces behind piazzas and Italy. It is what brings people of different generations to the same place. Old people come to share a meal and wine; young people come for a slice of pizza and gelato. Nonetheless old and new co-exist.
I think that this is the spirit that Italy of today is built on. With all the rich history and greatness that the country possesses, they still have to forge their own path in today’s modern world. Ancient and modern have to co-exist and compliment one another, in the same way we see the piazzas of Italy and the people that inhabit them do this.
Mark, I like that you talked about the different kinds of people coming together in piazzas. I agree that despite churches being common in piazzas, it does not matter what religion you are to appreciate good art. This is what keeps so many people from all over the world and from so many different backgrounds coming to visit Rome. I also like that you talked about modern and ancient times having to co-exist, since that has been something that has fascinated me since I have been here. Good job!
ReplyDeleteMark,
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed reading your journal. I think you brought up a lot of good points especially how the piazzas bring so many groups of people together. We've seen many examples of this, from old couples, to students (us), to performers, and even the gypsies and beggers who come to make ends meet. It's amazing that so many people use the piazzas in everyday life and it makes sense considering all there is to offer in them, as you discussed!