Settimana bianca

For the 1980 film, see La settimana bianca.

Settimana Bianca, commonly referred to as Ski Week or White Week, is a well-established Italian holiday tradition centered around a week-long retreat to the country's mountainous regions during the winter season. It offers an opportunity for participants to immerse themselves in a variety of snow-related activities amidst the scenic Alpine landscapes.

Overview

Settimana Bianca typically spans seven days, starting on a weekend and ending on the following weekend. During this time, participants engage in a range of winter sports, including alpine skiing, Nordic skiing, snowboarding, ski mountaineering, sledging and ice skating; Ice climbing and hiking can also easily be found.[1] A "settimana bianca" it is often offered to students of various school levels.[2]

Children Ski Slope in Lombardy, Italy

The tradition is embraced by people of all ages, with students particularly keen on taking advantage of the holiday period. It provides a chance for individuals and families to bond over shared experiences and create lasting memories amidst the snow-covered peaks.[3]

Settimana Bianca destinations vary, encompassing both natural snow resorts and those with artificial snow-making facilities. This diversity ensures that participants have a wide selection of destinations to choose from, catering to different preferences and budgets.[4]

Cultural Significance

Beyond its recreational aspect, Settimana Bianca holds cultural significance in Italy. It has been depicted in various forms of media, including cinema and music. For example, the term "La settimana bianca" is associated with a 1980 Italian comedy film directed by Mariano Laurenti.,[5] offering a glimpse into the holiday experience. Additionally, contemporary music, such as the 2018 song Settimana bianca [it] by the Italian group Il Pagante [it], provides a light take on the customs associated with Settimana Bianca, reflecting its enduring presence in Italian culture.[6]

See also

References

  1. ^ "Settimana bianca, fine di un mito: 8,3 milioni in montagna tra gennaio e marzo, ma solo 1 su 3 fa sci (e per 2 giorni)". la Repubblica. February 17, 2024.
  2. ^ Giancarlo Maculotti (2008). Lettera dalla scuola tradita (in Italian). Armando. p. 122. ISBN 9788860812919. Retrieved 2024-03-20.
  3. ^ "Una settimana bianca inclusiva per l'Istituto Sigismondi di Nocera Umbra". gualdonews.it. 13 March 2024.
  4. ^ "Settimana bianca sempre più cara: quanto costerà a testa quest'anno". Il Sole 24 ORE. November 18, 2023.
  5. ^ John Stewart (1994). Italian film: a who's who. McFarland, 1994. ISBN 9780899507613.
  6. ^ "Il Pagante al TRF e verso sound pop: "Uscirà ancora tanta musica"". cremonaoggi.it. July 5, 2023.