Traditional Italian House-Warming Gifts
Housewarming presents are given the world over to welcome neighbors and congratulate friends who have just moved into new homes. Although almost any kind of gift is usually appreciated, one that reflects a specific heritage may be especially appreciated by someone who takes a great deal of pride her heritage. If you're giving a housewarming gift to someone who cherishes her Italian heritage, you have many options.
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Food
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Several types of food can be considered Italian housewarming gifts. Bread, for example, means the homeowner will never go hungry, while wine means the he will never go thirsty. Salt represents the tears of life and is sprinkled around doors and windows for good luck. Rice represents fertility, while olive oil is believed to keep a loved one faithful.
Plants
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Plants are given in the Italian community. A homeowner who receives a plant as a housewarming gift can expect to live a long and happy life, according to Italian tradition.
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Objects With Meaning
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Simple, seemly odd items, can be given as housewarming gifts because they hold meaning. A broom symbolizes a clean house, though it can also be used to clear a residence of evil spirits. Toilet paper is sometimes given to convey the wish that all problems in the new home be resolved easily. A candle symbolizes light. Coins are generally meant to bring good fortune, but a penny is given to keep the homeowner from ending up on the wrong side of a knife.
Wood
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Wood is also used as a traditional Italian housewarming gift. Wood is typically meant to bring peace, harmony and stability to a new home.
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