It’s one thing to be from a place and another to love a place. But what happens when those two things blend into one? I’ve been pondering those sort of questions and feelings recently leading up to the day of my Italian citizenship ceremony. An exciting and emotional experience that has made the Amalfi Coast feel even more like my home!
The ceremony took place in Scala, and for some of you reading this might be the first time you’ve heard of Scala. It’s my little hidden gem on the Amalfi Coast and the place I’m very happy to call home. It’s a small town, considered the oldest on the Amalfi Coast, located in the mountains above Amalfi and just across the valley from Ravello.
The Comune, or city hall, of Scala overlooks the central square of town, just across from the Duomo and next to a new terrace with incredible views of the Ravello. After four years of waiting (a mandatory two year waiting period after the wedding and then about two years of processing time), all of the paperwork was finalized in Salerno for me to become an Italian citizen. The final ceremony takes place in the city hall where you are a resident.
There ceremony was presided over by the mayor of Scala, Luigi Mansi, and took place in the city hall’s large reception room. While the ceremony itself is relatively short, it was beautiful in its symbolism and meaning to me. It’s hard to put into words what it felt like – and it’s still sinking in!
Before officially receiving Italian citizenship, I had to make an oath swearing to be faithful to the Republic of Italy and faithfully observe the laws of the state. Here’s the statement: “Giuro di essere fedele alla Repubblica Italiana ed al suo Capo e di osservare lealmente la legge dello Stato.”
Then, of course, there are all the papers to sign. And … that’s it! A piece of paper doesn’t even come close to being able to contain all of my enthusiasm and emotions for becoming an Italian citizen. I look at that piece of paper every day (yes sometimes several times a day) and it feels just a little bit more real every time.
What really made the day special was my husband’s family coming to the ceremony and celebrating with us. I couldn’t imagine my life here – my Italian life – without their support and love. Whatever the piece of paper says, they’ve already made me feel Italian!
Thank you to the city hall of Scala and everyone who made it a very special day and experience for me. I’m proud to be an Italian citizen and grateful to have such a beautiful place to call home on the Amalfi Coast!
Congratulations! That’s very exciting! And with all you’ve written about the area and shown to English speakers, I’m sure they’re very happy to have you!
Thanks Karen! I do love sharing about the Amalfi Coast that’s for sure. 😉
Congratulations!!!! What a wonderful moment ~ thank you for sharing it!
Thanks so much, Helena!
Congrats Laura! Looks almost like a wedding ceremony. Well, I suppose that’s what it is, after all, getting married with Italy 🙂
Thanks, Dan! It really is quite similar and it felt that way, too. 🙂
So pleased for you, Laura. I have been with you on Caio Amalfi since you started it up. Always look forward to seeing photos and hearing news of the area we love best in the whole world.
Thank you again for taking the trouble to find out about hotel Piccolo Paradiso.
Enjoy your life in Scala and being an Italian Citizen. Jean
Thanks Jean! I love hearing from you and so appreciate you following Ciao Amalfi all these years. Thanks for your support!
congrats laura; I envy you. I have visited the Amalfi drive on two different occasions and simply love it. I bought a cookbook from Mamma Agata of ravello and have communicated with her daughter,Chiara, on occasion. I will continue to read all that you have to offer. don
Thanks for your comment, Don! Oh I love the Mamma Agata cookbook. So many delicious recipes!
Warmest, congratulations!! Looking forward to celebrating with you when I return next week!
Thanks, Linda! See you soon! 🙂
Laura,
I’m coming to the Amalfi Coast for the first time October 8th through the 16th. Would love a beautiful place to stay on the water. Searching hotels on line is very confusing. Would love a recommend or two from a local.
Thanks in advance, Judy
Hi Judy,
For hotels right by the water, I always suggest the Hotel Aurora, the Hotel Residence and the Marina Riviera in Amalfi. None are exactly ON the water, but they’re about as close as you’ll get in Amalfi and they all have rooms with sea views. Hope that helps!
Warm wishes,
Laura
Congratulations, Laura!! Good for you! You are now an “official” ambassador of Amalfi!
Best,
Rashmi
Yes that’s true! I like the way it sounds. 🙂
My dear Laura:
Proud of you and your adventurous spirit. So glad you don’t have to give up what you had to become what you want. Love you very much.
Your dad,
Thanks, Dad! It has been an adventure … with many more to come! 🙂
Congratulations! I enjoy reading of your adventures, and this one certainly places the “official stamp” of truly seeing the Amalfi area through the eyes of a one that loves Italy!
Thanks so much, Mary! It was an incredible experience … and one that I’m still getting used to. 🙂