In Italy, where the espresso is strong and Nonna's voice is stronger, there's a saying you'll hear over and over again: "Non è vero, ma ci credo!" That means, "It’s not true, but I believe it!" This phrase perfectly sums up the Italian attitude toward superstition: even if it sounds irrational, why tempt fate?

Italian superstitions are deeply woven into the fabric of daily life, influencing everything from how you greet someone to what kind of jewelry you wear. They stem from ancient Roman beliefs, Catholic tradition, regional folklore, and centuries of cultural evolution. Let’s take a journey through some of the most intriguing, bizarre, and surprisingly common Italian superstitions.

Placing Your Hat on a Bed

Let’s start with a classic. In many Italian homes, placing a hat on a bed is a big no-no. Why? This superstition likely stems from a time when priests, who traditionally wore wide-brimmed hats, would place them on the bed of someone who was gravely ill. It came to symbolize death or misfortune.

Even today, if you casually toss your cap on a bed in front of an Italian, prepare for a sharp gasp and a quick removal of said hat. It’s not just about tradition—Italian superstitions say that a hat on a bed invites bad energy into the home.

Careful Not to Spill the Salt

This one crosses cultural boundaries but has a particularly strong grip in Italy. Spilling salt is believed to bring bad luck. To reverse this misfortune, you're supposed to toss a pinch over your left shoulder. Why the left? That’s where the devil supposedly lurks.

In households from Milan to Palermo, a knocked-over salt shaker sets off a small ritual. It's a simple act, but one grounded in centuries of Italian superstition.

Careful Not to Spill Oil Either

While salt has its rituals, spilling olive oil is considered even worse. Olive oil is seen as sacred in Italy—a gift from the gods, used in everything from cooking to religious ceremonies. Spilling it is not only messy but believed to invite misfortune.

So, if you’re in an Italian kitchen, tread lightly with that bottle of extra virgin.

The Misfortune of the Black Kitty

In many countries, black cats are associated with magic and mystery. In Italy, they’re often linked to bad luck. If a black cat crosses your path, especially at night, Italian superstition says misfortune may be close behind.

This belief goes back to medieval times when black cats were thought to be witches' familiars or shape-shifting spirits. Today, while many Italians will pet a black cat, they might still hesitate before crossing its path.

Opening an Umbrella Indoors

If you open an umbrella indoors in an Italian household, you might as well light a flare and announce impending doom. It’s one of the most widely observed Italian superstitions.

Historically, umbrellas were used to protect against the sun. Opening one inside was seen as a challenge to the sun god, or more practically, a way to bring bad energy into a safe, protected space.

Look Into My Eyes

Toasting with friends? Don’t forget to make eye contact. Failing to do so isn’t just rude—it’s bad luck. Some even say it can bring seven years of bad intemacy. Yikes.

Italian superstitions are clear: sincerity and respect go hand-in-hand with tradition. Clink glasses, smile, and look them in the eye.

Are You a Single Woman? Be Careful of the Broom!

There’s a funny and oddly specific superstition in Italy: if a broom touches the feet of an unmarried woman while sweeping, she’ll never marry. This belief is so ingrained that many Italian women will jump out of the way mid-sweep.

It’s a playful example of how Italian superstitions find their way into everyday chores.

Stay Away from Number 13

Unlike in the U.S., where 13 is widely feared, the number 13 in Italy is more nuanced. In some contexts, such as football pools, 13 is actually considered lucky. However, when it comes to dinner tables or room numbers, many Italians still avoid them.

Why the confusion? Like much in Italian culture, it depends on the region and context. But one thing is clear: Italian superstitions treat numbers with deep symbolic weight.

Number 17 is No Better

If 13 is misunderstood, 17 is outright cursed. In Roman numerals, 17 is XVII, which can be rearranged to VIXI. In Latin, "vixi" means "I have lived," a euphemism for death.

Many Italian hotels skip the 17th floor entirely, and you’ll rarely find a car with a license plate ending in 17. This is one of the strongest Italian superstitions still observed today.

But Not All Superstition is Negative – How to Bring About Good Luck

Thankfully, not all Italian superstitions warn of doom. Many offer charming and uplifting ways to attract luck and joy.

Cross Your Fingers

In Italy, crossing your fingers (incrociare le dita) is a go-to move for hope and good fortune. Whether you're awaiting exam results or nervously watching a football match, this gesture is universal.

It’s a visual prayer, a small plea to the heavens, steeped in tradition and belief.

Eating Lentils on New Year’s Eve

Forget champagne and confetti. In Italy, the road to prosperity is paved with lentils. Their coin-like shape symbolizes wealth and abundance. On New Year’s Eve, families gather for midnight meals that include generous servings of lentils.

This is one of the tastiest Italian superstitions and a beloved holiday tradition.

Don’t Forget to Carry a Little Horn

The cornicello, or Italian horn, is perhaps the most iconic amulet in Italian culture. Worn as a pendant or kept in one’s pocket, it protects against the malocchio or evil eye—a curse born of envy and negativity.

These horns are often red or gold and twisted in shape, symbolizing strength and virility. Gifting someone a cornicello is a gesture of love and protection.

Forget Wood, Knock on Iron

In many cultures, knocking on wood is a way to avoid jinxing good fortune. In Italy, they knock on iron. Tocca ferro is the phrase, and it's used just as frequently as its wooden counterpart.

It’s a small but potent way to ward off bad energy—one of the more flexible Italian superstitions that adapts easily to any situation.

The Horn Symbol

Beyond its protective powers, the horn also symbolizes fertility, strength, and success. Whether you believe in its magic or just love the way it looks, it’s one of the most recognizable icons in Italy.

You’ll find it in keychains, bracelets, and pendants. Some are sleek and modern, others ornate and traditional, but all are rooted in the same centuries-old Italian superstition.

So what about you? Do you believe any of the above?

Whether you're laughing at the thought of cursed hats or nodding along because you, too, avoid the number 17, Italian superstitions are impossible to ignore. They’re quirky, enduring, and full of character—just like the culture they come from.

They also make for meaningful gifts and conversation starters. If you're visiting Italy or simply want to carry a bit of its spirit with you, there’s no better way than through symbolic jewelry.

The Italian Jewelry Company: Superstition Meets Style

At The Italian Jewelry Company, we celebrate the charm and depth of Italian superstitions with jewelry that tells a story. Our bestselling Italian horn necklaces are handcrafted to offer beauty and symbolic protection. And for those who see the number 13 not as a curse but as a charm? We have lucky number 13 pendants that honor that bold belief.

Each piece is more than an accessory. It’s a piece of tradition, a whisper of protection, and a nod to the old ways that still hold meaning in modern life.

So whether you’re superstitious or simply enchanted by Italy’s mystical side, wear your belief close to your heart. Shop our collection today and find your lucky charm.

Browse Italian Horns, 13 Pendants, and More at The Italian Jewelry Company