Piana degli Albanesi: An Albanian Heritage Preserved in Italy

The question of whether the Arbresh people in Italy consider themselves Albanian or Italian is not a simple one, but it is very relevant to understanding the complex identity of these individuals. Piana degli Albanesi, a small village in southern Italy, is a prime example of this cultural interweaving. Let’s explore the unique heritage and identity of the Arbresh people and how they navigate their dual cultural affiliations.

The Arbresh Identity

For generations, the Arbresh people in Piana degli Albanesi have maintained their cultural ties to Albania while also integrating into the Italian community. The Arbresh are the descendants of Albanian immigrants who settled in Italy around 600 years ago, bringing with them their language, traditions, and cultural heritage. Even after spending centuries in Italy, they have managed to preserve a significant portion of their Albanian roots.

Multilingual Signs and Cultural Preservation

The bilingual sign at Piana degli Albanesi, which reads in Italian and standard Albanian, is a tangible reminder of the village's unique cultural identity. Visitors can see firsthand how the Arbresh people continue to honor their cultural heritage alongside their Italian citizenship. This community actively participates in Albanian festivals and academic discourse about the language, showing a deep appreciation for both their Albanian and Italian roots.

Cultural Preservation and Evolution

The men in Piana degli Albanesi have primarily maintained their original folk costumes, whereas the women have developed distinct and unique costumes that are unparalleled in Sicily. This preservation of traditional Albanian costumes is a powerful symbol of the Arbresh people's commitment to their cultural heritage. The Albanian flag can be seen prominently displayed at the municipal building, further emphasizing their connection to their homeland.

Personal Insights from the Arbresh Community

To gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be Arbresh, one can turn to Stefano Skiroi, a local figure from Piana degli Albanesi, whose name translates to 'Stefano the Arbresh.' In a video interview, Skiroi speaks about the history of Sicily and his village, his name origin, and his experience visiting Kosovo. He proudly conveys the Arbresh history in the Italian language, sharing it with other citizens of Italy and beyond.

Modern Integration and Identity

While the Arbresh people are fully integrated into the Italian community, they are also proud of their Albanian heritage. The Arbresh community has lived in Italy for over 5 centuries, during which time they have maintained their cultural identity. They are aware of their Albanian origins and proudly display this on a communal level, as evident in the use of the Albanian flag as a symbol. Despite this, they are recognized and accepted as Italian citizens by the Italian state.

Conclusion

The question of whether the Arbresh people of Piana degli Albanesi consider themselves Albanian or Italian is one of cultural identity and heritage. They are a testament to the rich tapestry of cultural preservation and adaptation. The Arbresh people in Piana degli Albanesi preserve their Albanian language and traditions while fully integrating into the Italian community, showcasing what it means to be a part of a multicultural society.

Further Reading

Sicilian Peoples: The Albanians Video on the Arbresh people: