DOLCE – Italian Centre in Debrecen

With the contribution of the Department of Italian Studies of UD and in the framework of the Week of the Italian Language, DOLCE, the Italian Centre in Debrecen, was opened at the Youth House on Tuesday.

In addition to the promotion of Italian language and culture, the Centre is designed to provide opportunities and space for friendly get-togethers, language courses and other programmes that may facilitate Hungarian-Italian relationships.

- With 7 educational institutions offering Italian language programmes, we can say that the language is popular in the town – said János Halász D. in his welcome speech. The head of the Youth House pointed out that it had taken only two months to realize the concept, and a special feature of the opening event was that it coincided with the Week of the Italian Language.

- The national flags of the two nations use the same colours, which may be the best symbol of the connection between Italy and Hungary, and in particular Debrecen. The new Centre will hopefully strengthen this relationship – emphasized János Halász D.

- Our goal is to promote Italian language and culture in the community, which is nothing new. However, the timing is excellent, as the Faculty of Italian Studies celebrated the opening of DOLCE on the 25th anniversary of its re-establishment – said László Pete.

The head of the faculty explained that, according to plans, in addition to language-, music-, literature-, gastronomy- and sports-related events, the Italian Cultural Institute in Budapest will also bring programmes to Debrecen. László Pete also said that a Monti Circle was established at the faculty.

The opening of DOLCE also included a photo exhibition about Italy at the Youth House.

- For me, as an Italian, it is a special experience to be here at the opening of the Centre, which is to present and represent Italian culture, art and history, with a first exhibition of Bence Széll's films and photos taken in Italy – said Paolo Orrù, senior lecturer at the Faculty of Italian Studies.

In the framework of the Week of Italian Language, the programme continues with a round-table talk, where participants can learn about the use of the Italian language on the Internet and in the media with the help of Italian guest lecturers, Bruno Mastroianni, Marco Mezzadri and Andrea  Villarini. The event will take place at the Italian Centre of the Youth House (Debrecen, Simonffy u. 21.) on 19 October, Friday, 17:00.

Press Office