One of the most ancient – and arguably the most popular - Italian superstitions is the curse of the Malocchio or “Evil Eye”.
The Malocchio is an age-old superstition which draws on ancient cultures and religions, and has been referenced by myriad historical figures, including Plato.
This superstition has spread to many parts of the world, adapting slightly in accordance with each unique culture.
Every region in Italy also has its own version of the Malocchio, but every interpretation has one thing in common: jealousy and envy.
Generally speaking, the Malocchio is a form of “black magic”, which is caused when an individual casts an envious or jealous glare, deliberately or unintentionally, in somebody else’s direction.
If the individual at the receiving end of the glare catches the evil energy passed on, then they will be cursed with the Malocchio.
In some cultures where lighter coloured eyes are rare, it’s believed that blue eyes are the most dangerous when it comes to the curse, followed by green, brown and then black.
Traditional symptoms of the Malocchio vary in severity, and can involve general misfortune or physical complaints.
For example, some “victims” of the curse may experience intense migraines, fatigue, stomach aches and dizziness, while others may suffer from bad luck regarding anything from finances to family.
Remedies for the curse are dependent on the region in question, but usually involve a unique ritual preformed by a woman of the family who has been taught how to dispel the Malocchio.
According to one folklore tradition, the woman performing the ceremony must pour three drops of olive oil into a bowl of water.
If the oil droplets form a circle similar to the shape of an eye, then the suffering individual has in fact been cursed with the Malocchio.
The next step is to rid the individual of the curse, first by making the sign of the cross as the oil separates from the water, saying “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit”.
Then the healer must make the sign of the cross on both hands, before placing them onto the patient and reciting a series of prayers.
This process must be repeated until the oil no longer represents the shape of an eye, but a random arrangement of droplets.
There are several forms of protection against the Malocchio, but the most popular is the cornetto. The cornetto is a horn-like symbol usually worn on a necklace or displayed in homes to ward off evil spirits.
The cornetto looks like a small chili pepper, and is most commonly made from red coral, gold or silver.
The tradition of the cornetto dates back to ancient European folklore when horns were associated with the moon goddess, and therefore considered sacred.
While here in Australia the “Evil Eye” simply refers to the act of glaring at somebody, it means much more in many other parts of the world, where its significance remains as strong as it was thousands of years ago.
Could the Malocchio’s longstanding history and extensive presence across different nations and cultures mean that there is some truth behind the superstition?
To believe or not to believe, that is the question.
