Download this free 4-day Family Devotional (printable Booklet here; tip: it’s a booklet, so print on both sides & flip on the short side or a Digital copy here) as you learn and pray during your “Travels.”
Or use this simple Pray for Italy Prayer Card pdf or jpeg version
Below are some fun facts and information to learn about the country and people of Italy, including:
- Overview
- Italian Language
- Italian Foods
- Italian Culture & Arts
- Spiritual Needs in Italy
Overview
Italy is one of the most recognizable countries on the continent of Europe, stretching down into the Mediterranean Sea in the shape of a boot and bordered by several other European countries along its northern, mountainous edge. Its history is layered with centuries of influence—from the ancient Romans and the rise of the Roman Empire to the spread of Christianity, the Renaissance and its explosion of art and learning, to unification as a modern nation in the 1800s, and its role in both World Wars. Italy’s past has shaped not only Europe, but much of the world. The Italian people hold a deep sense of cultural identity, especially when it comes to family, food, faith, and the arts.
Today, Italy is divided into 20 administrative regions, each with its own distinct traditions, cuisine, landscapes, and even dialects. From the snowy Alps in the north to rolling countryside, historic cities, and sun-soaked coastal villages in the south, every region reflects a unique blend of history and beauty. Italy is home to approximately 59 million people and has long been one of Europe’s most influential nations. In size, the country is slightly larger than the state of Arizona.
Like much of Europe, Italy is increasingly diverse, with the majority of the population being of Italian descent and growing communities from across Europe, Africa, and beyond. Beneath its rich religious history and visible symbols of historical orthodox Christianity, Italy has deep current spiritual needs, making it a meaningful place for families to learn about, explore, and pray for together.
Print off this coloring page for your younger kids to enjoy as you learn about Italy together.
Italian Language
Italian is a Latin-based Romance language, much like many of the languages spoken across Europe, with its roots tracing back to the Roman Empire. Italian developed from Latin and was shaped over centuries by regional cultures, history, and local dialects. Today, Italian is spoken primarily in Italy, as well as parts of Switzerland, and by Italian communities around the world. It is one of the official languages of the European Union and is widely recognized because of Italy’s global influence in art, music, food, and faith.
Like English, Italian uses the Roman alphabet and is often considered one of the more approachable languages for English-speakers to learn. Teach your children a few Italian words! “Ciao” is a friendly way to say both “hello” and “goodbye.” “Buongiorno” means “good morning.” And “grazie” means “thank you.” Practice these words as you go about your day—or while enjoying some Italian food together!
A fun way for kids to get a taste of a different language is by hearing a song they already know sung in a new language. Here is “You Are My Strength” in Italian, with Italian and English lyrics: https://youtu.be/U4XRFRmLB34 Can your children pick out any of the Italian words? “Cristo” is Christ!
Take a video of your kids listening to the song and tag me on social media or share it in our Facebook Community!
Italian Food
Meals in Italy are about much more than food—they are about connection, conversation, and slowing down to enjoy being together. Italian meals are often served in courses, beginning with a small appetizer (antipasto), followed by a first course (primo) such as pasta or soup, a second course (secondo) featuring meat or fish, and finishing with fruit or dessert. The largest meal of the day has traditionally been lunch, especially in smaller towns, though dinner together in the evening remains an important daily rhythm for families. Food and family are deeply intertwined in Italian culture, and meals can stretch on as people linger around the table, talking, laughing, and simply enjoying one another’s presence.
Coffee shops abound and can be found on almost every corner! Everyone drinks coffee and it is a common smell as you walk the streets in Italy. Whether you have a cappuccino with breakfast or an espresso in the afternoon, anytime is coffee time.
Favorite foods vary widely by region and season, but common staples include pasta, bread, olive oil, fresh vegetables, cheese, and simple, flavorful sauces. Wine is often enjoyed with meals by adults and is considered a natural part of the culture rather than something set apart for special occasions. Do you have an authentic Italian restaurant in your area? Make a fun family outing of going and exploring Italian cuisine together. Or try making some of your own at home! Italian cooking is often simple and approachable, making it a great way to invite children into the kitchen and encourage them to try new things.
Try out a few Italian recipes at home and involve your kids as you prepare these dishes. I’ve chosen meal ideas that use familiar ingredients you should be able to find at your local grocery store:
- Simple pasta dish: Baked Meatless Lasagna
- Quick lunch bites: Stuffed Baked Tomatoes
- Sweet traditional dessert for Easter: Lemon Ricotta Pie
- Italian biscotti for dipping into your coffee or espresso: Almond Biscotti
Add a loaf of crusty bread, a simple green salad, some Italian cheese, and wine for the adults, and invite extended family or friends to join you. Gather around the table, slow down, and enjoy a small taste of Italy together.
Italian Culture & Art
Art is woven deeply into Italian culture and daily life. From ancient Roman architecture to Renaissance masterpieces, creativity has long been a defining part of Italy’s identity. Italian children are regularly exposed to art, music, and history through school and everyday life, and there is a strong appreciation for beauty, craftsmanship, and tradition. Art in Italy is not only something to admire in museums—it’s something to experience in city streets, churches, fountains, and town squares.
Italy is home to some of the most famous art and architecture in the world. The Vatican Museums in Rome house countless masterpieces, including Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling, and cities like Florence are filled with works by artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli. Many museums and historic sites offer virtual tours, allowing families to explore Italy’s art and history from home. Encourage your children to try some Italian-inspired creative projects: draw or paint your own version of the Sistine Chapel ceiling, sketch the Colosseum, or design a colorful Venetian carnival mask.
Beyond arts and crafts, play and movement are also important parts of Italian childhood. Many children grow up playing calcio (soccer) in neighborhood streets and parks, and games often happen outdoors with friends and extended family close by. Music and festivals are also a big part of Italian culture, with children frequently learning traditional songs or participating in local celebrations.
Spending time outside is highly valued in Italy, and families often gather in public squares, parks, and along seaside promenades. Outdoor activities vary by region and season, from hiking and skiing in the Alps and Dolomites in the north, to swimming, walking, and enjoying long evenings outdoors in southern coastal towns.
If you’re interested in learning more about Italian culture and people, look for Italian cultural festivals, community events, or restaurants in your area. One of Italy’s most important national celebrations is “Festa della Repubblica” on June 2nd, which commemorates the birth of the Italian Republic. It is celebrated with parades, public events, and displays of national pride throughout the country—another beautiful reminder of Italy’s deep sense of history, community, and identity.
Spiritual Needs in Italy
Set aside some time to pray for the country and people of Italy. Although Italy is often seen as the heart of historic Christianity, many Italians today have little personal connection to a living, active faith. Beautiful churches and cathedrals fill cities and villages across the country, yet many of these spaces function more as historic landmarks or tourist destinations than places of vibrant worship. In smaller towns, church services may happen infrequently, and attendance is often limited, especially among younger generations.
While Italy has deep Catholic roots, faith is frequently cultural rather than personal. While many of the older generation may identify as Christian by tradition, they do not regularly read Scripture, pray, or participate in church life. Younger generations have a deep distrust of the Catholic church and don’t want anything to do with that religion and do not see the differences between Catholic religion and a personal faith in Jesus. Like much of Europe, Italy has seen a steady decline in church participation, alongside a growing sense of secularism and spiritual indifference. Today only 1.5% of the population is evangelical Christian though 90% of the country claims to be Catholic; to be Italian is to be Catholic. Small evangelical churches usually contain a mere 20 Italians; but when they do choose to follow Jesus personally, they do so faithfully and fully.
Italy is also increasingly diverse, with growing immigrant communities from Africa, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East, bringing both opportunity and challenge for the Church. Many Italians—especially young people—are searching for meaning, identity, and belonging, but do not believe the church has answers for their everyday lives. There is a deep hunger for authentic relationships, Scripture taught clearly, fresh expressions of worship, and bold yet compassionate evangelism.
As you pray, ask God to awaken hearts across Italy—to move powerfully among children, teens, college students, and young adults; to strengthen missionaries and Italian believers who feel isolated; and to raise up churches that are alive, welcoming, and rooted in truth. Pray that whole families would encounter Jesus not just as a historical figure, but as a living Savior who desires a personal relationship with them.
For more information on the spiritual needs in Italy, read this report on missionary needs in Italy: https://www.practicalmissions.org/single-post/2018/09/25/italy-a-forgotten-mission-field
And enjoy listening to these beautiful Italian Christian worship songs.
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