The Evolution of Piana Dei Greci to Piana Degli Albanesi: An Exploration of Cultural Identity

Origins of the Arvanites

The Arvanites, a distinctive group of Albanian-speaking communities, trace their origins primarily to Albanian-speaking populations who migrated to various parts of the Italian peninsula, including Sicily, during the 15th and 16th centuries. This migration often occurred as a result of Ottoman expansion and the search for better living conditions. The Arvanites have maintained a distinct identity, reflected in their language, traditions, and customs, despite sharing some cultural and historical ties with Greeks, particularly in the context of the Byzantine Empire and early modern history.

The Name Change and Its Implications

Cultural Recognition: The renaming of Piana Dei Greci to Piana Degli Albanesi in 1941 reflects a recognition of the Arberesh community's Albanian roots, rather than a simplification of the Arvanites' identity to purely Greek. The town's name change does not serve as evidence that the Arvanites were simply Greek, but instead highlights the complex interplay of identities in the region.

Proof of Identity: While the Arvanites maintain a distinct Albanian identity and have Albanian roots, they also practice Eastern Catholic rites, which can be seen in their religious traditions. This cultural overlap does not define their primary identity. The name change is a reflection of the ethnic origins of the first settlers and their roots in Albanian heritage.

Personal Connection to Piana Dei Greci

My great-grandmother, born in Piana Dei Greci in 1874, provides a personal connection to this rich history. According to her birth certificate, she was part of the Arvanite community living in this plain under the name 'Greek.' The town's name, Piana Dei Greci, suggested a close association with Greek religious rites and practices, as indicated by the Eastern Catholic rite followed at that time. When she emigrated to America, along with many others from Piana Dei Greci, she and the rest of the family transitioned to Roman Catholicism, a common practice among immigrants.

Today, there is a significant population in New Orleans descended from these immigrants, highlighting the diaspora of the Arvanites and the enduring impact of their cultural practices and traditions. This community in New Orleans, rooted in Piana Dei Greci, serves as a testament to the resilience and cultural heritage of this group.

The Historical Context of the Name Change

Until 1941, Piana Dei Greci was known as the Plain of the Greeks. However, in 1927, Benito Mussolini, in an attempt to align Italy with its classical Roman heritage, had already renamed the nearby city of Girgenti to Agrigento. In 1941, fascism dictated that the town's name should be changed to Piana Degli Albanesi, reflecting the ethnic origins of the early settlers rather than their Greek religious practices. These changes signify the complexity of cultural and political identities in the region.

It's important to note that the people who left the Morea (Peloponnese) region were predominantly Albanian. They used the Greek language for religious practices, similar to how English is used in today's context. However, their primary identity remained Albanian. Songs like "Moj e Bukura More," a poignant Albanian song, express the deep connection these people felt to their land and the pain of leaving it. This song underscores the emotional and cultural importance of their homeland.

Conclusion

The renaming of Piana Dei Greci to Piana Degli Albanesi is not a simplistic reflection of Greek identity but a recognition of the Arberesh community's Albanian heritage. The Arvanites maintain a distinct identity, shaped by their language, traditions, and cultural practices, yet they have also been influenced by the religious and historical ties to Greece. Understanding the complex interplay of these identities is crucial in comprehending the legacy of the Arvanites and their unique contributions to both Italian and Albanian cultures.