My Ancestral Italy

26/03/2026

Carolyn Bessette Kennedy has been back in the public eye in a big way in the past couple of years, after a spate of new books (some dedicated to her and her style and others to her romance and marriage) and, most recently, a massively-popular dramatized TV mini-series about her career, her seemingly fairytale romance, and tragic fate.

She was well-known in the ‘90s for her fashion career at Calvin Klein and her famous (infamous?) marriage to John F. Kennedy, Jr., so much so that her name and photos became irrevocably linked almost exclusively to her husband’s. But did you know that her maternal lineage is from Italy?

Her mother, Ann Marie Messina, comes from two Italian families – her father (Carolyn’s grandfather) Calogero Messina was born in Castellammare del Golfo in Sicily. Ann Marie’s mother, Vincenza (“Jennie”) Venturello, was born in the US but her parents (Carolyn’s great-grandparents) came from Castelbuono, also in Sicily. Unsurprisingly, the men in both sides of her Italian side were listed as marinari (sailors), though one ancestor on her maternal line was a calzolaio (shoemaker). Despite her blond tresses, she was actually a natural brunette, like her mother Ann Marie.

❤️

24/03/2026

Do You Know?

This is another in our series about famous Italians or well-known descendants of Italians.

Do you know who she is and where in Italy her maternal ancestors came from?

18/03/2026

Since Saint Joseph is known to be the foster-father of Jesus Christ, in Italy on this day, March 19th, we also celebrate Father’s Day - a special occasion to honor the role of fathers and father figures in our lives

The “Zeppole di San Giuseppe” is a common pastry eaten this week and found in pasticceria all across the peninsula. Zeppole shells are made of a classic choux pastry dough and are filled with delicious, silky pastry cream and decorated with cherries.

Whether you're celebrating Father's Day or simply want to indulge in a sweet treat, the Zeppole di San Giuseppe is a must-try this time of year!

10/03/2026

We always appreciate feedback from our clients, as it allows us to refine our services and better understand how we can assist them in their journey to discover their Italian roots. Helping people to learn more about their Italian ancestry is our only focus, and we take pride in providing personalized research projects.

03/03/2026

Bryan recently had the opportunity to speak with Bob Sorrentino of Italian Roots and Genealogy, and the video is now available on YouTube.

An engaging chat about travel in italy, focusing on dialects and regional speech in basilicata and matera that shaped a guest's perspective. One speaker prai...

24/02/2026

These are three maps of ethnicity based on the same individuals DNA, the top two are from the same company and adjusted overtime. How can these be different if they are from the same DNA?

Companies like Ancestry.com and MyHeritage use your DNA’s breadcrumbs to link you with common ancestors in their reference groups (like those distant cousins or aunts you’ve never met). But remember, these reference groups rely on self-reported family trees that can be as accurate as a weather forecast and can change like a weather forecast. Do they have the receipts to back up those family tales, or are they just winging it?

DNA testing is a nifty gizmo for genealogy sleuthing, but it’s just one gadget in the genealogist’s toolbox. It might connect you with that long-lost cousin or a mysterious uncle who’s also done the spit test, but it won’t roll out a map to your Italian ancestors—that’s where some good old-fashioned record-digging comes in.

So don’t settle for just a DNA test—dive into those Italian archives to unearth the facts about your southern Italian roots and weave a vibrant tapestry of your family history.

17/02/2026

Friuli Venezia Giulia, the most northeastern region of Italy, has a rich and complex history that is still evident in its present-day culture, cuisine, and architecture. The region's borders were not fully established until after World War 2, and its strategic location has made it a prized possession for various countries and cultures throughout the centuries. From the Romans to the Austro-Hungarian Empire, each has left an indelible mark on the region's identity. The unique blend of Italian, Slavic, and Germanic influences is palpable in the local dialects, traditional dishes, and stunning architecture that dot the landscape.

The region is comprised of four provinces, each with its own distinct character, and Trieste, the regional capital, is a city with a stunning seafront, grand piazzas, and rich literary history.

11/02/2026

Got your mask ready?!

In Italy, Carnevale holds significant cultural importance, deeply rooted in regional mask-making traditions and celebrated extensively across various cities, renowned globally for their unique festivities. This joyous occasion serves as a farewell revelry to indulge in culinary delights, merriment, and revelry before the solemnity of Lent.

The official Carnevale commences with Giovedi Grasso and concludes next Tuesday, Martedi Grasso. Throughout several weekends, Italians participate in vibrant parades, don elaborate masks, and spread lots of confetti. Notably, the most esteemed Carnivals in Italy take place in Venice, Viareggio, Ivrea, Cento, Putignano, Acireale, and Sciacca, featuring grand masquerades and processions.

03/02/2026

Traditionally in Italy, there's a unique way of announcing the passing of a loved one. Unlike in other countries, you won't typically find obituaries published in newspapers. Instead, notices called 'necrologi' are placed in specific locations throughout the neighborhood, serving as a way to inform the community of the sad news. You'll often find a designated board on the street, where these notices are pinned up for all to see.

Sometimes, a notice is even placed on the outside of the house of the deceased, as a way to pay respects and let neighbors know what's happened. These 'necrologi' are usually placed by the funeral service the day after the death, and the funeral typically takes place within two days.

31/01/2026

Looking for a book designed to assist those with Italian ancestry who wish to visit their ancestral town? This is a Do-It-Yourself guide to help them to prepare for their trip with basic Italian genealogy principles and pointers to prepare for their visit. It also covers ideas on what to do once they are in their ancestral town to get the most out of the experience.

27/01/2026

When you journey to your ancestral town, be prepared to uncover the rich history and heritage that lies there. Having a photograph of your ancestors can be a powerful tool to help you connect with your roots, and placing it next to the original document can make for a great photo opportunity. Imagine being able to see the faces of those who came before you, and comparing them to the documents that tell their stories. This simple yet powerful act can help bring your family's history to life, and create a sense of connection to the people and places that have shaped your identity.

So, don't forget to pack that photograph in your bag, and get ready to uncover the secrets of your ancestral town!