TRADITIONS
Easter in Italy is just around the corner! This Sunday, our beloved country—and the entire Christian world—will celebrate Santa Pasqua, the joyous festivity honoring the resurrection of Jesus Christ. When it comes to culinary traditions, every country has its own take, but Easter in Italy is particularly renowned for its rich flavors and symbolic dishes.
One of the classic dishes enjoyed during Easter in Italy is oven-baked lamb, seasoned with a medley of Italian herbs. This traditional main course symbolizes sacrifice and rebirth, making it a fitting choice for the occasion. And of course, no Italian Easter is complete without chocolate eggs—beautifully wrapped and filled with surprises. While today they’re found everywhere, this sweet tradition actually began nearly two centuries ago in Turin, bringing smiles to children and adults alike.
Another hallmark of Easter in Italy is the colomba cake. Personally, it’s my favorite! “Colomba” means dove, a universal symbol of peace and renewal. This fluffy, almond-topped dessert has medieval roots, but it became widely popular less than a century ago thanks to Angelo Motta, a Milanese baker. He revived the age-old recipe, enriched it with almond paste and icing sugar, and gave it the now-iconic dove shape—transforming it into the official dessert of Easter in Italy.
Motta’s delicious idea was beautifully brought to life by the artist Cassandre, who designed the advertising campaign. With its charming 1930s aesthetic and the catchy slogan “Il dolce che sa di primavera” (“The sweet that tastes like spring”), the colomba won over hearts across Italy. It’s now a staple of every Easter table, celebrated as much for its flavor as for its symbolism.
Wishing you a joyful and delicious Pasqua—and may your Easter in Italy (or wherever you are!) be filled with sweet moments and cherished traditions.
Maria Novozhilova
X: @NovozhilovaM
