Nice to Know
By Rosario Mariani, http://www.europebychoice.com
Pawnbrokers
The traditional symbol of the pawnbroker three golden balls (photo above) is derived from the Medici family coat-of-arms, who ruled Florence in the 15th and 16th centuries. The symbol was spread by the Lombards, Italian bankers, Goldsmiths and money lenders who set up business in medieval London.
“La Cipolla” The Onion
A must in all Italian kitchens was named after the Latin word “Unio” meaning a large pearl.
Il Calendario Gregoriano
Thanks to Pope Gregory XIII tweaking the Julian calendar and realigning the earth with the heavens, a new calendar was derived. England and the American colonies adopted the Gregorian calendar. On Sept 14th. 1752.
Miraculously the Pope made 11 days disappear. Therefore, if you went to bed on Thursday, October 4th 1582, when you woke up the next day it was Monday October 15. 1582.
I believe all the folks were mesmerized by listening to the Gregorian Chants throughout the lost 11 days.
Rosario Mariani is the owner/CEO of Europe By Choice, which promotes travel to Italy and other select European countries. He has more than 40 years of experience in the travel industry, previously serving as Director of Italy Product for Italiatour and Club ABC Tours, and also in other positions with EuroFly, Alitalia and Air France.
Benvenuti to the NIAF Pensieri Blog 