Walking through the halls of an Italian university during graduation season, the air hums with a mix of anticipation and nostalgia. This period marks a significant transition, where years of dedication culminate in formal celebration. Each university, from the historic Sapienza in Rome to the prestigious Scuola Normale Superiore in Pisa, maintains its own distinct character while sharing a deep reverence for academic achievement. Understanding these customs offers a window into Italian culture, where formality coexists with heartfelt emotion.
The Laurea: More Than a Diploma
The cornerstone of the experience is the "Laurea," the academic degree awarded upon completion of a university program. Unlike a simple certificate, the Laurea represents a formal rite of passage. The ceremony itself, often called "la laurea," is a meticulously organized event where degrees are conferred. Students don specific academic regalia, and the atmosphere shifts between scholarly decorum and festive celebration. This moment solidifies the transition from student to professional or researcher, carrying with it the weight of academic rigor and intellectual growth.
Tossing the Cap: The Origin of the Mortarboard
The iconic act of tossing the graduation cap into the air has roots in medieval European universities. In Italy, this tradition, known as "il lancio della toga," is a moment of pure liberation. After years of rigorous study, the physical act of throwing the cap skyward symbolizes the shedding of academic pressure and the embrace of future possibilities. You will see this synchronized gesture across every plaza and courtyard, a unified release of joy shared by thousands of new graduates. It is a visual spectacle of collective relief and ambition.
Processions and Attire: The Language of Academic Regalia
Italian graduation ceremonies are steeped in visual tradition, reflected in the academic attire worn by participants. The standard outfit includes a black robe, often lined with the specific color of the faculty, and a distinctive square cap, or "berretto." The most elaborate version is the "toga," a long black gown worn by doctoral candidates and faculty. These garments are not merely decorative; they denote hierarchy, discipline, and the solemnity of the occasion. The procession of graduates entering the venue is a choreographed display of this sartorial heritage.
The Toga: Reserved for PhD candidates and professors, signifying the highest level of scholarship.
The Berretto: The square cap, often hit gently on the table before being tossed, a gesture of good luck.
Color Coding: Ribbon and stole colors vary by field of study, from red for engineering to purple for humanities.
Celebrations and Feasting: The Role of Food and Family
No Italian celebration is complete without a feast, and graduation is the ultimate family reunion. Following the formal ceremony, graduates are escorted by loved ones to a long table laden with food. These gatherings often span multiple hours, featuring traditional dishes that vary by region. In the north, you might find rich risottos, while the south offers an abundance of pasta and seafood. This communal meal serves to anchor the graduate, providing emotional support and grounding after the intensity of the ceremony.
Money and Symbols: The Practical Traditions
Beyond the emotional release, certain graduation traditions are practical. It is customary for friends and family to give monetary gifts, often presented in elegant envelopes. Another enduring symbol is the "cappello da laureato," the oversized graduate cap. Graduates proudly wear this cap during photos and for days following the event, a public declaration of their new status. Furthermore, the kiss on both cheeks, exchanged with professors and dignitaries, reinforces the personal bonds formed during the academic journey.
