ITALIAN SYMBOLS

The students, divided in two teams , did reaserches on the net to  find :

• A-Historical information

• B-Cultural significance

• C-Relevance to the European Union and its cultural heritage

about the symbols they had chosen.

The  team n 1: _THE RAINBOW TEAM_

2€ symbol: A = The Bronzi di Riace are priceless statues not only for their rarety but also for their artistic quality. They offer a look at Greek sculpture of the Classical Age.The Bronzi di Riace were made around the fifth century B.C.

B= These warriors, who were found at the bottom of the sea, express strength and beauty and They are one of the most iconic sculptural works in Italy. These statues do not only represent the Calabrian cultural heritage, and they are among the most important and undisputed symbols of Magna Grecia.

C= The Bronzi di Riace are candidates to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and they all have what it takes to be so. The 50 years since the discovery of the two statues  can be the key to access this important artistic, cultural  recognition.

 Name: CHIARA & GIORGIA

0,2€ symbol: A =The GONDOLA is a traditional venetian boat used to move around the city of Venice Italy due to  the absence of roads and the presence of the canals that  required a thin and flat bottomed embarcation.It was from the 15th and 16th Century that gondolas were built and used to navigate Venice.

B= The gondola is the most well-known symbol of the city, an undisputed protagonist as emblematic as it is mysterious in its origins.Gondolas play an crucial role in Venetian culture. They’ve existed since the early years of the glorious Serenissima Republic, around the 11th century.  Even if the city has changed over the centuries, gondolas never did, and that’s where their charm lies.

C= Venice is launching a campaign to have gondolas added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. Venice itself is already a UNESCO World Heritage site.

 Name: ALESSIA & MARTA

0,1€ symbol: PIZZA  AThe term pizza was first recorded in the year 997, in a  Latin manuscript from the  Southern Italy town of  Gaeta . The Neapolitan pizza dates back to the period from  1715 to 1725. Raffaele  Esposito is  often credited for creating modern pizza in Naples

B-Pizza and its variants are among the most popular foods in the world. Pizza is sold at a variety of restaurants and has a variety of Regional recipes. Pizza is the most popular WORD in the world.

C: In 2009,   Neapolitan Pizza was registered with the European Union  as a traditional speciality guaranteed  dish. In 2017, the art of making Neapolitan pizza was added to UNESCO's list of INTAGIBLE CUTURAL HERITAGE

Name: DANIELE & SANTO

0,05€ symbol:  ETNAA Etna or Mongebello, is a complex stratovolcano of Sicily originated in the Quaternary, and is the highest active volcano on the Eurasian plate.

B The name, derives from the Greek verb “aitho” which means to burn and therefore burning mountain. It is one of the most studied and   supervised volcanoes and it has a great relevance, from the scientific and geological point of view. Its cultural and instructive value is of global relevance.

C On 21 June 2013 the session of the UNESCO Committee included Etna in the list of World Heritage Sites.

Name: _ANNAMARIA & ROSARIO

0,01€ symbol:A= The plant of OLIVE dates back  to 20–40 million years ago in the Oligocene, in what now corresponds to Italy and the eastern Mediterranean Basin.

B=_The olive has long been considered a symbol of abundance, peace, wisdom and victory. Emblems of benediction and purification, the leafy branches of olive trees were historically used to crown the victorious in friendly and bloody battles, and the oil of its fruit has anointed noble heads throughout history.

C=_World Olive Tree Day was proclaimed at the 40th session of the UNESCO General Conference in 2019 and takes place on 26 November every year.

The olive tree, specifically the olive branch, holds an important place in the minds of men and women. Since ancient times, it has symbolized peace, wisdom and harmony and as such is important not just to the countries where these noble trees grow, but to people and communities around the world.

Name: ASIA & FELICIA

            The team n 2: __THE YOUNG STARS_

1€ symbol: _ST. PETER'S BASILICA

A=St. Peter's Basilica is located in Vatican City,  in St. Peter's Square, is a masterpiece of Italian art and is one of the symbols of Rome ,It was built by Emperor Constantine precisely because St. Peter was buried there. Construction began on April 18, 1506 and was completed in 1626.

B=  It is  the largest  Church in  the world both because of its  size and, metaphorically, because of its importance as the centre of Catholicism .  In addition to its liturgical importance, its precious works of art makes it one of the absolute masterpieces in the world

C=St. Peter's Basilica is included within the UNESCO World Heritage Site called Vatican City and established in 1984

 Name: GIULIA & ARIANNA

0,5€ symbol:TOWER OF PISAA:  is one of the most famous Italian symbols, a monument due to its characteristic  shape, a cylindrical lending tower, standing 57 meters high (58.36  meters considering the foundation plan)built over two  centuries, between twelfth and fourteenth centuries 

B= The Tower of Pisa is a very important symbol for Italy and Europe,. is a true jewel of Romanesque art. it was a miracle of medieval engineering, probably the tallest bell towers in Europe,it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Italy  

C: The Tower of Pisa has been a UNESCO World  Heritage Site since 1987  The Leaning Tower of Pisa has been proposed as one of the 7 wonders of the modern world!

Name: ALICE & BEATRICE

0,02€ symbol:THE FERRARI A=The Ferrari is an iconic car.It was founded in 1939 by Enzo Ferrari  and the company built its first car in 1940, adopted its current name in 1945, and began to produce its current line of road cars in 1947 in Maranello ,Modena.

B=The official  Ferrari'ssymbol is the "Prancing Horse" a prancing black horse on a yellow background, the colour of the car is called “racing red'.It represents the proud of Italy, in 2020 it was declared by Brand Finance, the strongest brand in the world

C=It has been involved in Formula 1 since the first edition.It holds the record for titles in the Formula 1 World Championship (15 Drivers Titles and 16 Constructor Titles. It is a symbol of exclusivity, performance and quality all over the world,due to the inimitable style of cars, unique in innovation, technology and driving pleasure.

  Name: FRANCESCO & TOMMASO

ROMANIAN SYMBOLS

After brainstorming some ideas and doing some research on the internet, my students decided upon the following symbols to illustrate our coins. They also gathered information about each of the symbols, as requested by the project outline. Their level of English is elementary, so they got some help from me as well. The information was first gathered in our native language, then I helped with the translation. Here are the information they found (that will be included in the final presentation as well):

I. Mihai Eminescu, our national poet

1. Historical information: Mihai Eminescu was born in 1850 and is considered Romania’s national poet. He had a great influence on Romanian literature in the late 19^th century. One of his most famous poems is “Luceafarul” which reflects themes such as love, nature and national identity.

2. Cultural significance: Eminescu's poetry is a cornerstone of Romanian cultural identity, expressing the nation's sentiments and struggles. His verses resonate with themes of romanticism and patriotism, shaping the cultural consciousness and fostering a sense of unity among Romanian people.

3. Relevance to the EU and its cultural heritage: His works are a testament to Romania's intellectual and artistic heritage. Eminescu's poetry acts as a lyrical introduction to Romania in the EU, revealing the nation's soul through the universal language of emotions.

Name: Maria, Yanis & Edi

II. The peony, Romania's national flower

1. Historical information: The peony has deep historical roots in Romania, symbolizing beauty and grace. Its presence in Romanian folklore and traditional ceremonies dates back centuries. It is protected by law, being declared Romania’s national flower in 2022.

2. Cultural significance: The peony is cherished for its beauty and as a symbol it stands for prosperity and good fortune in Romanian culture. It reflects a connection to nature and the nation's agricultural heritage.

3. Relevance to the EU and its cultural heritage: The peony serves as a cultural bridge, representing Romania's horticultural traditions and showcasing Romania's botanical diversity in the EU.

Name: Mario & Christi

III. Oina (National sport)

1. Historical information: Oina, an ancient bat-and-ball game, has roots tracing back to Dacian and Thracian civilizations. Embodying the spirit of fair play, it was officially recognized as the national sport in 2017.

2. Cultural significance: Oina symbolizes teamwork and traditional values and it connects Romanians to their historical roots and fosters a sense of community.

3. Relevance to the EU and its cultural heritage: Oina's recognition as Romania's national sport highlights the country's commitment to preserving its unique cultural practices.

Name: Marco & Matei

IV. The pan flute, our national musical instrument

1. Historical information: The pan flute, known as "nai" in Romanian, is a wind musical instrument which has a rich history dating back to ancient times, being an important part of the Romanian folk music for centuries.

2. Cultural significance: The pan flute’s presence in traditional and contemporary music reflects Romania's artistic depth and musical heritage.

3. Relevance to the EU and its cultural heritage: The pan flute's incorporation in Romanian music contributes to the EU's diverse cultural landscape, fostering cross-cultural exchanges.

Name: Sara, Victor & Adi

V. Traditional Romanian costumes

1. Historical information: The traditional Romanian costume, known as "port popular," has evolved over centuries, reflecting the country's diverse regions. Its origins date back to medieval times, with unique designs and colors symbolizing regional identity.

2. Cultural significance: The costume serves as a visual representation of Romania's rich folklore and traditions, embodying the nation's unity in diversity.

3. Relevance to the EU and its cultural heritage: The traditional costumes serve as living expressions of Romania's unique heritage, fostering understanding and appreciation for our country's cultural diversity within the European community.

Name: Petruta, Andrei & Tudor

VI. The Carpathian Mountains and bears

1. Historical information: The Carpathian Mountains, a natural fortress, have shielded Romania throughout history. The presence of bears in these mountains is a testament to the country's rich biodiversity

2. Cultural significance: The Carpathians are deeply ingrained in Romanian mythology and folklore, symbolizing endurance and the untamed spirit of the nation. Bears represent strength and harmony with nature.

3. Relevance to the EU and its cultural heritage: The presence of bears in The Carpathian Mountains highlights the importance of preserving natural habitats and biodiversity, thus Romania's commitment to environmental conservation within the EU as well.

Name: Alex & Ana

VII. Bran Castle

1. Historical information: Bran Castle, often associated with the Dracula legend, has a history dating back to the 14th century. Originally a fortress defending against invaders, it later became a royal residence and a symbol of medieval Transylvania.

2. Cultural significance: Bran Castle is a cultural landmark, embodying Romania's medieval history and architectural heritage. Its association with Dracula adds a layer of mystique, attracting visitors and fostering a sense of national pride. It is located in the Bran Rucar Pass, 30 km from Brasov. 

3. Relevance to the EU and its cultural heritage: Bran Castle serves as a cultural attraction, drawing tourists from across the EU and beyond. Its preservation and promotion contribute to Romania's tourism industry and the EU's collective cultural tourism landscape.

Name: Gabriel & Raisa

VIII. The Palace of Parliament

1. Historical information: The Palace of Parliament in Bucharest, completed in 1997, is a monumental architectural achievement. Built during the communist era under the lead of Nicolae Ceausescu, in a period of great economic deprivation, it stands as a symbol of the country's political history and transformation.

2. Cultural significance: The Palace of Parliament represents Romania's resilience and commitment to democracy. Its grandeur and scale underscore the nation's journey from authoritarianism to a modern, democratic state.

3. Relevance to the EU and its cultural heritage: The Palace of Parliament serves as a symbol of Romania's integration into the EU, reflecting political changes and a commitment to democratic values.

Name: Cristi, Florin & Iulia

TURKISH SYMBOLS

We had four students working on the project. The descriptions were written by Şirin, Zeyneb, Rimas and Yağmur.

2 € - Mount Nemrut

A: Mount Nemrut in Turkey has these huge statues made around 2,000 years ago by King Antiochus I. He was trying to mix Greek and Persian styles. The place got forgotten, but in the 1800s, people found it again

B:Mount Nemrut's importance is because it shows how King Antiochus I brought the Greek and Persian styles together into these massive statues. The multicultural expression leads us to a better understatement of the ancient civilizations.

C:Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987, Mount Nemrut was protected by the Mount Nemrut National Park established in 1988.

1 € - Selimiye Mosque

A:According to the inscription of the mosque, its construction started in 1568. Although the mosque was planned to be opened on Friday, November 27, 1574, it was not until II. It was opened for worship on March 14, 1575, following the death of Selim.

B:The pearl of Turkish-Islamic architecture, the 447-year-old Selimiye Mosque fascinates its visitors with its history. Selimiye Mosque, which is the "masterpiece" of Mimar Sinan and opened for worship in Edirne on March 14, 1575, is also the symbol of the power and greatness of the Ottoman Empire at the time it was built.

C:It was included in the World Heritage List as a cultural property within the scope of the 1st and 4th criteria with the decision numbered 35 COM 8B.37 taken at the 35th Term Meeting of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee held between 19- 29. 06. 2001

0,50 € - Safranbolu Houses

A: Safranbolu houses are the general name of the area in Safranbolu district of Karabük province where the Ottoman urban fabric of the 18th and 19th centuries has been preserved until today.

B:During the Ottoman period, it is rumored that the mortar of Safranbolu houses was made of egg whites and that they withstood earthquakes for a very long time. Another earthquake-resistant feature of these houses is that they are not built at the bottom of the earth. Safranbolu houses are white in color and these houses do not block each other.

C: It was listed as a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO on December 17, 1994.

0,20 € - Cappadocia

A: Cappadocia is a region formed by the erosion of the soft layers of lava and ash erupted by Erciyes, Hasandağı and Göllüdağ 60 million years ago by rain and wind over millions of years.

B:In the 11th and 12th centuries, Cappadocia fell to the Seljuk dynasty. During this and the Ottoman period that followed, the region enjoyed an uneventful period. The last Christians in the region left Cappadocia in 1924-26, leaving behind beautiful architectural examples.

C:Göreme National Park and Cappadocia were included in the World Heritage List in 1985 in seven sections as Göreme National Park, Derinkuyu Underground City, Kaymaklı Underground City, Karlık Church, St. Theodore Church, Karain Dovecotes and Soğanlı Archaeological Site.

0,10 € - Ephesus Ruins

A:Efes Harabeleri is basically the old ruins of Ephesus in Turkey. Picture this ancient city from way back in the 10th century BC, with awesome stuff like the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre. It was very popular, but by the 3rd century AD, it declined.

B:Efes Harabeleri is crucial because it offers a glimpse into ancient Ephesus in Turkey. Picture a city from the 10th century BC featuring landmarks like the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre. Ephesus isn't just history; it held significance, especially in early Christianity. Visiting Ephesus now provides a window into the past and its captivating story.

C:In 2015, it was added as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Excavations in 2022 uncovered shops and a neighborhood from the Early Byzantine period, dating to the 7th century.

0,05 € - Vulture Stone

A: Göbekli Tepe is a Neolithic archaeological site in the Southeastern Anatolia Region of Turkey. The settlement was inhabited from c. 9500 to at least 8000 BCE, during the Pre-Pottery Neolithic. It is famous for its large circular structures that contain massive stone pillars—the world's oldest known megaliths.

B:The site is a tell situated on a flat limestone plateau. In the north, the plateau is connected to the neighbouring mountains by a narrow promontory. In all other directions, the ridge descends steeply into slopes and steep cliffs.

C:It was placed on the provisional list of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO in 2011 and was inscribed on the permanent list in 2018.

0,02 € - Diyarbakır Castle

A:The Diyarbakır Castle was first made by the Romans, later on going through some changes by the Byzantines and Seljuks.

B: An importance of the Diyarbakır Castle is that it's a very old fortress with a history from Roman times. Playing a big role in protecting the various cities it saw made it special and recognized by UNESCO

C:The Diyarbakır Castle was accepted to be a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2015.

0,01 € - Çatalhöyük

A:It was inhabited 9000 years ago by up to 8000 people who lived together in a large town. Çatalhöyük, across its history, witnesses the transition from exclusively hunting and gathering subsistence to increasing skill in plant and animal domestication.

B:Çatalhöyük provides important evidence of the transition from settled villages to urban agglomeration.

C:Çatalhöyük was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List as of 2012.

Croatian Symbols

(OŠ Lotrščak)

2 € The Baška Board is one of Croatia's most renowned symbols, featuring the distinctive Glagolitic script. This script, unique in its role as the exclusive liturgical alongside Latin, holds historical, cultural and linguistic significance.

Jakov Hrvoje

1 €The Diocletian's Palace, the summer retreat of Roman Emperor Diocletian, born in Dalmatia, is a remarkable ancient monument and a global treasure. Its combination with medieval structures creates a valuable UNESCO-listed archaeological complex.

Jakov Hrvoje

0,5 € Sinjska Alka, a knightly contest in southern Croatia, is a cultural celebration uniting everyone. It commemorates the liberation of Dalmatia against the Ottoman Empire's advance into Europe.

Frane Duje

0,2 € Necktie is a famous piece of clothing that originates from Croatia. Ties first appeared during the Thirty Years' War. Nowadays, they are used all around the world.

Frane Duje

0,1 € The Town of Vukovar, known as the "Hero Town" symbolizes Croatian freedom due to its pivotal role in the War of Independence. Its significance lies in helping secure Croatia's independence, a crucial step towards its eventual EU membership.

Mihael

0,05 € The Vučedol Dove is a ceramic vessel dating back to 2800-2400 BCE. It served as a cultic incense burner and was decorated with symbols. To make it, members of the Vučedol Culture had to introduced new metallurgical techniques and skilled ceramics. It left a lasting impact on European culture: it is the oldest dove figure found in Europe so far.

Mario

0,02 € The Palagruža Archipelago is a small archipelago with rich ancient history. Numerous Neolithic artifacts were found there and the place is connected to Greek seafarers and the mythical hero Diomedes. Nowadays it is isolated and and home to a lighthouse. It forms part of the EU network of nature protection areas Natura 2000.

Mario

0,01 € The Coat of Arms of Croatia, dating back to 1527, is a highly recognizable national symbol. Featuring the distinctive checkerboard pattern known as "šahovnica," it can be observed in various places, including the shirt of the Croatian national football team.

Mihael

Polish Symbols

(Primary School No in Bełżyce)