Sicilian Symbols and Their Meanings

Specific Symbols and Their Significance:

• Mano Fico (Fig Hand): This hand gesture, with the index finger placed between the thumb and forefinger, represents female genitalia and is used as a ward against the evil eye. The article states: "By placing the index finger over the thumb (like some strange golfers do) the hand symbolizes a fig which represents female genitalia in a calmly slang manner. The hand is said to ward off the evil eye." Its usage dates back to Roman times and even the Etruscans.
• Cornicello (Little Horn): A horn-shaped amulet, the cornicello is considered a symbol of strength against malocchio (the evil eye). The article says, "Cornicello - is a symbol of strength to fend off the malocchio." Originating from the horn of the Eland deer of North Africa, it is often made of gold or red coral. The source also includes some contemporary use of it stating, "The gold ones are also popular with Minnesota Vikings Fans and the red ones are very popular with Italian-American ladies in the Fort Lauderdale area of South Florida." Traditions surrounding the cornicello suggest it should be received as a gift and, if metal or gold, bitten by a loved one.
• Mano Potente/Mano Cornuto (Powerful Hand/Hand of the Horn): This hand gesture, resembling animal horns, is meant to intimidate and ward off evildoers. The excerpt explains, "Shaping the hand as if it had animal horns is said to put fear into the hearts of evildoers. Some even believe that the two fingers could be used to poke eyes out."
• Trinacria: This symbol, representing the triangular shape of Sicily itself, is arguably the most famous Sicilian symbol. As the article states, "of course the most famous symbol of Sicily it symbolizes the triangular shape of the island itself." The original Roman name for the island was "Trina Crium," meaning "three-pointed star." While widely recognized, it only appeared on the Sicilian flag in 1943 during the independence movement led by Andrea Finocchiaro Aprile.

Important Facts/Details:

• The symbols have roots in ancient Roman and Etruscan cultures.
• The symbols are used to protect against the "evil eye" (malocchio) and promote well-being.
• Traditions and superstitions are associated with these symbols, such as receiving the cornicello as a gift.
• The Trinacria, although a long-standing symbol of the island, only officially appeared on the flag relatively recently.