Understanding Malocchio: The Italian Evil Eye

The belief in the malocchio (the evil eye) has been passed down through generations across many cultures, especially in Italy. While some view it as a superstition, for many it remains a powerful concept with real effects on daily life and interactions. This article explores the origins of the malocchio, the cultural significance it holds, and the traditional practices used to ward off its influence.

What is the Malocchio (Evil Eye)?

The malocchio, or evil eye, is the belief that a person’s envious gaze can project negative energy, causing misfortune or harm to its target. In Italy, the malocchio is a longstanding belief, where many see it as an explanation for sudden bouts of bad luck, illness, or personal setbacks that don’t seem to have any clear cause.

Ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and Egyptians, believed in the power of the evil eye, and this concept spread across the Mediterranean. Each culture has its own interpretation, but they share a core idea: the evil eye is a result of envy or admiration, which disrupts a person’s energy, attracting negativity.

Origins of the Malocchio

Historically, belief in the malocchio has been most prevalent in the Mediterranean, particularly in Italy, Greece, Turkey, and parts of the Middle East. Many of the earliest protective symbols and amulets, such as the blue eye found in Greek and Turkish cultures, come from this belief. In Italy, specific amulets like the corno (small red horn) or the cornetto (a pepper-shaped charm) are worn to fend off the malocchio.

The Italian belief in the malocchio also emphasizes humility and caution in the face of success or good fortune. Italians often avoid boasting to avoid attracting envy, which could inadvertently cast the evil eye. Additionally, many Italians still seek out traditional practitioners who can perform rituals to remove the malocchio when they believe they have been affected by it.

Effects and Perception of Malocchio

In cultures where belief in the malocchio is strong, people sometimes attribute unexpected health issues, negative events, or even physical symptoms to its influence. In fact, it’s common for those who believe they are affected to report symptoms like fatigue, headache, or a general sense of malaise.

From a psychological perspective, the belief in the malocchio often has real effects on those who feel they are under its influence, adding to stress and anxiety. For many, though, taking action to counteract it—through rituals or protective symbols—offers comfort and a renewed sense of control.

How to Protect Against the Malocchio

Throughout the Mediterranean, people have developed various methods to protect themselves from the evil eye. Here are some of the most common:

1. Cornetto Amulet: The red cornetto or corno, which resembles a small chili pepper, is one of the most popular Italian charms for warding off negative energy. Worn as jewelry or carried in a pocket, it is thought to repel any envy-driven harm.

2. Fare le Corna: In Italian culture, fare le corna (making horns) is a popular hand gesture used to counteract the malocchio. This gesture is made by raising the pinky and index finger while the other fingers are folded. It’s often used when someone wants to ward off negativity after receiving compliments or praise, helping to “break” any potential influence from envy.

3. Spitting for Protection: In some traditions, people spit three times or make a spitting sound when they feel that they have been the target of envy or malicious intentions. This gesture, sometimes accompanied by a phrase, is meant to ward off any negative effects of the malocchio.

4. Salt and Oil Rituals: In Italian folk traditions, simple items like salt and oil are used to protect against or remove the effects of the malocchio. Some people scatter salt at the entrance of their home or conduct small rituals with oil and water to cleanse themselves or a loved one of negative energy.

5. Seeking Help from a Traditional Healer: In Italy, particularly in rural areas, people may turn to a trusted healer to “cure” the malocchio. These healers use secret prayers or blessings passed down through families to lift the curse, restoring balance and peace.

Ronnie James Dio and the Devil's horns

One of the most famous figures associated with the concept of fare le corna is Ronnie James Dio, the legendary heavy metal musician known for his work with Black Sabbath and Rainbow. Dio, who was of Italian-American descent, often shared in interviews that his Italian grandmother had taught him the fare le corna gesture as a way to protect against the malocchio. This family tradition became an important part of his life and musical persona.

Dio went on to popularize the gesture in rock culture, using it as a symbol of connection with his fans. For him, fare le corna wasn’t just a hand gesture; it was a piece of his Italian heritage, a powerful symbol of protection, and a reminder of the cultural traditions that grounded him. Thanks to Dio, this Italian custom crossed over into the global mainstream, where it became a symbol of resilience, defiance, and unity among rock fans around the world.

The malocchio, or evil eye, remains a fascinating part of Italian and Mediterranean folklore, carrying with it both cultural meaning and personal significance. Whether someone sees it as a superstition or a protective practice, the belief in the evil eye reflects a universal desire for well-being and protection from unseen forces. The amulets, rituals, and gestures associated with the malocchio have kept this tradition alive, reminding us that cultural beliefs and practices are powerful, even in the modern age.