4 Surprising Culture Shocks From My Move To Palermo Italy

4 Surprising Culture Shocks From My Move To Palermo Italy

Italy is a country renowned for its rich history, art, and cuisine. From the romantic canals of Venice to the ancient ruins of Rome, Italy’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage have made it one of the most sought-after destinations in the world. But beyond the postcard-perfect views lies a culture with nuances that may take time to understand, particularly for those making Italy their new home.

For us, the Province of Palermo in Sicily became our sanctuary—a coastal haven that offers a mix of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and a slower pace of life. This charming place, with its stunning beaches and relaxed atmosphere, seemed like the perfect place to begin a new chapter of our lives. The cost of living here is significantly lower than in many Western countries, making it an attractive destination for expats and retirees.

However, as with any major move to a new country, relocating to Palermo brought its own set of cultural shocks. 

In this blog, we will explore four key cultural differences in Italy that surprised us when we first settled in Sicily, helping others who might be contemplating a similar move. 

These cultural differences—ranging from social structures to everyday environmental factors—are a crucial part of what makes Palermo and Italy unique. Embracing these changes can turn potential challenges into rewarding experiences.

What You Will Learn: Four things that surprised us when we moved to Palermo, Sicily

• Lost Identity
• Communication Fatigue
• Family & Social Structure
• Environmental Differences

👉Lost Identity: The Italian Tradition of Retaining Maiden Names

In Italy, it’s customary for women to keep their maiden names even after marriage. This was one of the first cultural shocks we encountered. Unlike in many Western countries where a woman typically adopts her husband’s surname upon marriage, Italy follows a different tradition, and this difference became immediately apparent to us.

For example, when I had to update my documents, including my passport and identification card, I realized that my Italian identity was still tied to my maiden name despite being married for decades. My U.S. passport had my married name, but my Italian documents reflected only my maiden name.

This discrepancy took some adjustment. At first, I found it strange and a little disorienting. I would routinely use my married name in various settings, only to be corrected or reminded that I needed to use my maiden name for all legal purposes in Italy. 

Over time, I became more accustomed to this tradition, recognizing that it’s a deeply ingrained part of Italian culture. In fact, I discovered that this custom is quite widespread throughout Italy, and even on social media, many Italian women do not take their husband’s surname.

While it felt like I had lost my identity for a brief period, this adjustment ultimately helped me understand more about the Italian view of family and personal identity, which values individual heritage and lineage over marital bonds in specific contexts.

👉 Communication Fatigue: The Italian Emphasis on Social Interaction

The Italian approach to communication is markedly different from the more reserved nature of American social interactions. While Americans tend to value privacy and individualism, Italians embrace a vibrant and often extended network of social connections. 

When we first arrived in Palermo, we were struck by the sheer volume of conversations that seemed to happen spontaneously and without hesitation.

In Italy, socializing is an essential part of daily life. Even something as simple as hanging laundry or taking out the trash can turn into an opportunity for a friendly chat with neighbors. Whether at the local café or on the street, interactions are a regular occurrence, and it’s not uncommon to engage in prolonged conversations with shopkeepers, passersby, or even strangers.

This openness and constant communication can initially feel overwhelming, especially for those of us accustomed to more solitary or impersonal interactions in other countries. 

For example, in the United States, it’s common for a visit to a coffee shop or grocery store to be a brief, transactional experience. However, in Palermo, these visits can stretch into hours, with locals sharing news, catching up on the latest gossip, or discussing family matters.

Although this level of engagement can sometimes lead to communication fatigue, it is also one of the things that makes living in Italy so enriching. The sense of community is palpable, and this willingness to connect and share fosters a welcoming environment. 

Over time, I came to appreciate the warmth and hospitality that come with this culture of constant interaction, though it’s still something I’m still adjusting to.

👉 Family & Social Structure: The Close-Knit Italian Family

Family is at the heart of Italian culture, and this extends beyond the immediate nuclear family. While the American concept of the family often focuses on the nuclear unit—parents and children—Italians place great importance on a broad, extended family network that includes not only parents and siblings but also grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and even distant relatives.

This sense of extended family permeates nearly every aspect of Italian life. Family gatherings are not limited to holidays or special occasions; they happen regularly and are often seen as vital to maintaining strong familial bonds. In Palermo, Sunday lunch is a revered tradition, usually involving multiple generations and a long, leisurely meal. 

This commitment to family is a core aspect of Sicilian society. It reflects a collectivist approach to life that contrasts with the more individualistic ethos prevalent in many Western countries.

For Americans, this concept of extended family may seem foreign. We are accustomed to celebrating holidays with close relatives but may not have regular, large family gatherings throughout the year. 

In Palermo, however, it is typical to see families frequently coming together to help one another in times of need or simply to enjoy each other’s company. This is one of the aspects of Italian culture facts that I quickly learned to admire, as it fosters a deep sense of loyalty, obligation, and connection.

Social obligations also extend beyond family. In Sicily, there is often an expectation that individuals will prioritize community and family over work. This is especially evident during the summer months when many Italians take extended vacations to spend time with loved ones. 

In August, the entire country seems to slow down, with businesses closing for Ferragosto, a national holiday celebrating relaxation and family time. This was a significant shift from the constant hustle and bustle of work-centric cultures like in the U.S.

👉 Environmental Differences: Noise, Weather, and the Vibrancy of Palermo

Environmental differences in Palermo were another area where we encountered some initial challenges. As a city rich in history and culture, Palermo is often bustling with activity. This dynamic atmosphere means that there is a fair amount of noise, particularly in residential areas. 

In contrast to the more quiet suburban neighborhoods in the U.S., Palermo’s streets are constantly filled with street vendors, cars honking, dogs barking, and the occasional fireworks display. While this energy adds to the city’s charm and vibrancy, it can be a bit jarring at first, especially for those who are not accustomed to living in a noisy, lively environment.

Additionally, the weather in Palermo can be hot and humid, particularly in the summer months. Air conditioning is not as standard in Italy as it is in many other countries, so residents often rely on open windows and fans to cool their homes. 

While this is a manageable solution for many, those used to a climate-controlled environment might find it difficult to adjust, especially during peak summer heat.

Another environmental feature that took some getting used to was the presence of street vendors. In Palermo, it’s not unusual for vans to drive through residential neighborhoods, selling everything from fresh fish to fruit and bread. 

These vendors often honk their horns to announce their arrival, adding yet another layer of noise to the city’s soundtrack. While this may seem chaotic at first, it quickly becomes part of the charm of living in Palermo.

Living in Palermo has been an enriching experience filled with both challenges and rewards. While the culture shocks we encountered—such as the tradition of retaining maiden names, the constant communication, the close-knit family structure, and the environmental noise—took some time to adjust to, they also deepened our understanding of life in Palermo and its values. 

These cultural differences are not roadblocks but rather opportunities to embrace a way of life centered on community, tradition, and a deep sense of belonging.

Anyone considering moving to Italy, particularly to a Province like Palermo, should approach these cultural differences with an open mind and a sense of curiosity. 

Adjusting to life in Italy can be a profound journey of personal growth as you immerse yourself in a culture that values family, connection, and a slower, more intentional pace of living.

Embrace the differences, learn the language, and take the time to appreciate the unique rhythms of Italian life. After all, the richness of Italian culture lies in its ability to surprise, challenge, and ultimately transform those who are open to it.