Bel paese (phrase)
Bel paese (or Belpaese, IPA: [ˌbɛl paˈeːze]) is the classical poetical appellative for Italy, meaning the "beautiful country" in Italian, due to its mild weather, cultural heritage and natural endowment.
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The usage of the term originated in the Middle Ages, being used by Dante and Petrarch:
del bel paese là dove 'l sì suona,
Of the fair land there where the 'Sì' doth sound,
il bel paese
ch'Appennin parte e 'l mar circonda e l'Alpe
that fair country
the Apennines divide, and Alps and sea surround
The term is currently widely used in modern Italian as in other languages as a synonym for Italy, but can sometimes be intended slightly ironically.[1] It is commonly used as a term of endearment by members of the Italian diaspora, and it is often used to endorse or promote goods[2] and services[3] both in Italy and abroad.
References
- Italy: Farewell to the 'Bel Paese'?. Berg Publishers. 1999. Retrieved 2009-11-30.
- Bel Paese (cheese)
- "Google results for '"Bel Paese" restaurant'". Retrieved 2009-11-30.