“Una Faccia, Una Razza” (One Face, One Race) is a powerful Italian phrase that beautifully encapsulates the deep and enduring connection between the Greek and Southern Italian peoples.
This phrase speaks to the shared history, culture, and traditions that bind these two groups, particularly in the southern regions of Italy, such as Calabria, Sicily, and Apulia, where Greek colonists once established thriving cities over two millennia ago.
The roots of this connection go back to the ancient Greek colonies that dotted the southern Italian coast, forming the foundation of what was known as Magna Graecia. Over centuries, the influence of Greek language, art, philosophy, and customs left a lasting imprint on the local culture of Southern Italy.
The ties between the Greeks and Southern Italians are woven through centuries of cultural exchange, blending traditions, cuisine, and even dialects. From shared myths and legends to similar architectural styles and a deep appreciation for family and community, the similarities are striking.
The bond is also reflected in the regions’ passionate connection to their history, preserving ancient Greek ruins like the temples of Paestum and the city of Neapolis (modern-day Naples).
Despite the complex histories of both peoples, with various political and social changes over the years, “Una Faccia, Una Razza” reflects the idea that, at their core, Greeks and Southern Italians are united by a common heritage that transcends time and borders.
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