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LE CORNO PORTE-BONHEUR NAPOLITAIN

THE NEAPOLITAN LUCK HORN

The origins and symbolism of the corno

The corno (or "curniciello", Neapolitan for "little horn") is a amulet characteristic of Naples and its region. This amulet has an elongated horn shape, also evoking a flame or a chili pepper. Its origins date back to the Neolithic era (around 3,500 years ago), when it was common to hang a horn-shaped object inside the house to promote fertility and well-being. The horns symbolized strength, since a family's prosperity was linked to the size of its herd.

The corno is also associated with cornucopia of the mythology Greek and Roman, representing fertility. According to legend, Zeus, the king of the gods, was raised by nymphs and fed by a goat named Amalthea. One day, while riding his nurse, he accidentally broke one of her horns. Touched by the situation, the nymph Melissa took care of the injured goat.

The Corno and the God Priapus

Corno Priape

The phallic form is also a reference to the god Priapus who, in addition to presiding over the cult of fertility, defended against the evil eye nursing mothers and their babies, fruit trees, dairy cows and the sperm of men. The red tint gives the amulet the appearance of a flame, symbolizing purifying fire. Since the arrival of red pepper in Europe, this color has also been linked to its aphrodisiac properties.

Materials and tradition

red coral

In jewelry, it is made of red coral, with reference to Venus, goddess of love, fertility, sex and prosperity. generally, the horn is mounted on a support in money, referring to Luna, the goddess of the moon, who symbolizes the seasons and feminine cycles.

The corno as a souvenir

souvenir Naples

It is the best-selling souvenir in Naples: the shops are overflowing with them, in all materials, from the small pendant to the enormous terracotta effigy, including key rings. Even the character of Pulcinella sees his hat replaced by a corno. Stores offer a multitude of variations, and street vendors also offer this iconic item.

Corno and superstition

According to a Neapolitan author, Eduardo de Filippo, "It's bad luck not to believe in superstitions.". What many people don't know is that the corno only has an effect if you receive it as a gift and it is "activated"! It should be noted that since the dawn of time,The horn was designed to specifically resemble a chili pepper.

Neapolitan tradition states that the curnicello has particular characteristics to truly bring good luck: it must be rigid, hollow inside - possibly being filled with salt, another element with apotropaic powers - and have a sinusoidal and pointed shape.

The corno in popular culture

That the corniciello is a still living element in the tradition of the city is quite obvious: it can be found everywhere, in all shapes and sizes, decorated in various ways, available as an object of low value up to elegant and precious versions of goldsmith's work. Everyone is free to use them.

The horn lucky charm is a strong symbol of Neapolitan culture. It is steeped in history and superstition, and continues to be a popular souvenir for visitors to Naples. Whether you believe in its powers or not, the corno is an interesting object that bears witness to the rich history and beliefs of the Neapolitan people.

To carry a piece of history and culture with you, discover our lucky Corno key ring, available in silver or gold versions. 

key ring-corno-lucky-neapolitan-silver-or-gold

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