The number 17 is associated with bad luck in some cultures, while being considered a neutral or even lucky number in others. So what’s the deal with 17 in Italy? Is it viewed as an unlucky number by Italians?
The History of 17 as an Unlucky Number
The idea that 17 is an unlucky number has its origins in ancient Roman culture. The Romans believed that XVII was a symbol of misfortune because the letters can be rearranged to spell the Latin word VIXI, which means “I have lived” – the implication being death was imminent.
This superstition about 17 migrated from ancient Rome through Europe. By the 17th century, many major cultures like Italy, Greece, Spain and France viewed 17 as unlucky. The fear of the number 17 even has a name – heptadecaphobia.
Why Did 17 Become Associated with Bad Luck?
There are a few theories as to why 17 got its unlucky reputation:
- In the Bible, the great flood is said to have started on the 17th day of the second month.
- In Roman culture, Loki, the god of mischief in Norse mythology, was sometimes associated with the number 17.
- 17 is seen as an inauspicious number because it falls between 13 and 18 which are both considered luckier numbers.
Regardless of how it started, the superstition surrounding 17 persisted through the Middle Ages and Renaissance period. By the 19th and 20th centuries, it was widespread across Europe.
Does Italy Still Consider 17 Unlucky Today?
These days, Italy has a complex relationship with the number 17. While some continue to view 17 as unlucky, others consider it a harmless superstition of the past.
Evidence 17 is Still Feared
There are a few signs that the superstition around 17 still persists in Italy today:
- Many hospitals and hotels in Italy don’t have a room numbered 17.
- 17 is sometimes omitted from numbering on apartment buildings and houses.
- Some Italians avoid events like weddings or major purchases on the 17th of the month.
- Italian lottery players tend to avoid the number 17.
- Friday the 17th continues to be viewed by many as a day of bad luck.
Signs It’s Losing Its Stigma
On the other hand, there are also indications that Italian society today is moving beyond this superstition:
- Younger generations of Italians are much less inclined to fear the number.
- 17 is now a common numbering for floors in modern high-rise buildings.
- Alitalia’s flight 17 and Italy’s national lottery SuperEnalotto have made 17 more mainstream.
- Italian scholars and mathematicians have worked to debunk the myth through education.
Overall, while some Italians still adhere to the superstition, it does seem to be fading in the younger generation.
Other Unlucky Numbers in Italy
While 17 has the strongest unlucky associations in Italy, there are some other numbers that may raise eyebrows:
13
Similar to the western world, 13 is often viewed as unlucky. This stems from the Last Supper having 13 guests with Judas being the 13th member of the party. Many Italians will avoid sitting in row or seat 13.
4
The number 4 has negative connotations in Italian culture because its pronunciation – quatto – sounds similar to the word for “death”. Government or religious items will sometimes exclude the number 4.
Lucky Numbers in Italy
While certain numbers are considered ominous, others are viewed as auspicious. Here are some fortunate figures in Italy:
6
Six often symbolizes perfection or health. This lucky meaning comes from the ancient Latin word for six – sex – which was used in the medical term sepsis meaning health.
7
Seven is associated with virtue and spirituality in Catholic Italian culture. The 7 sacraments, 7 virtues and 7 vices have cemented its lucky status.
12
As a symbol of completeness with strong biblical meaning, 12 is considered propitious. There were 12 apostles, 12 tribes of Israel and 12 days of Christmas.
13
While still disliked by some, 13 is making a comeback as younger Italians push back against old superstitions. Friday the 13th is increasingly embraced.
Conclusion
So in summary – does Italy consider 17 an ominous number today? The answer is…it’s complicated. While the unlucky stigma around 17 persists for many old-school Italians, younger generations have largely moved past this antiquated superstition.
As Italian society leaves outdated folklore behind in favor of logic and education, lucky and unlucky numbers may hold less power over the culture. But for now, watch out for black cats on Friday the 17th!