For many Italian American families, the quest to unearth family histories often appears to be a daunting task. But, in this week’s episode of the Italian American Podcast, we’re joined by an Italian genealogist who wants you to set aside your anxieties at the one place on earth created solely to reconnect members of the Italian diaspora with their roots… the “Museo Del Cognome” (Museum of Surnames) in the ancient city of Padula, Italy!
The creation of Michele Cartusciello, one of Italy’s most renowned and passionate genealogists, the Museo Del Cognome — located in one of Padula’s more beautiful buildings from the 1700s — is one-of-a-kind-place that will guide you on your family history search.
We’re joined by Giusi Dede, one of the Museum’s dedicated team members, to discuss the varied services that this incomparable institution offers the members of the Italian diaspora hoping to better understand their family story… from preliminary research utilizing civic and church records, to building a family tree, searching military records, notarial deeds, immigration documents, censuses, passport applications, and much more.
Plus, the museum shares the records and family histories of many of the famous sons and daughters of the Italian Diaspora, like Pope Francis, Luigi Pirandello, Robert De Niro, and Sylvester Stallone, just to name a few.
And, beyond the research services available, their team will help you plan “Ancestry Tours” to see the sights and meet the family members in your ancestral towns, provide handwriting analysis (graphology) for heirloom family letters and documents to tell you more about the personality of your unknown ancestors, help you on your quest for Italian Citizenship, and provide captivating content to engage young Italian Americans in the joys of family history.
So, if you’re interested in learning more about your family’s story, join us for a dive into this amazing place, and a chance for our hosts to share some of their favorite family history stories (and genealogy tips) in this unique episode!
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