The Istituto Italiano di Cultura (IIC) in Mexico City is an Italian cultural institute located at Avenida Francisco Sosa, a few steps from the Zócalo of Coyoacán. It was established in 1953 and has been a significant cultural hub in the city ever since. The institute is part of the network of Italian cultural institutes abroad, dedicated to promoting Italian culture in Mexico.
- Location: Avenida Francisco Sosa, Coyoacán, Mexico City.
- History: Founded in 1953, it moved to its current location in 1976, acquiring a colonial-style building that was previously the residence of the Polish and Belgian ambassadors.
- Mission: To promote Italian culture, support contemporary Italian creativity, and foster dialogue and collaboration between Italy and Mexico through cultural, academic, and artistic exchanges.
- Activities: Organizes concerts, exhibitions, film festivals, literary meetings, congresses, and workshops. It also offers Italian language courses at various levels, including certification exams from prestigious Italian universities.
- Facilities: The institute includes a library, “Gaspara Stampa,” which is the largest Italian library in Mexico, available for public consultation.
- Events: Recent events include concerts, such as Mikhail Hallak’s performance of works by Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, and Brahms, and the Italian Film Week, featuring various Italian films.
Courses and Certifications
- Italian Language Courses: Offered at different levels, including beginner, intermediate, and advanced. Classes are both in-person and online, and students can choose their preferred schedule.
- Certifications: The institute provides certification exams for Italian as a second language, recognized by the University for Foreigners of Siena (CILS) and the University for Foreigners of Perugia (CELI).
Cultural and Educational Initiatives
- Cultural Events: The institute hosts a variety of cultural events, including concerts, exhibitions, and film screenings, often in collaboration with local cultural institutions.
- Educational Programs: Provides courses in Italian language and culture, as well as other subjects like gastronomy, wine, literature, and Latin.
The IIC in Mexico City is a vibrant cultural center, actively promoting Italian culture and fostering cultural exchange between Italy and Mexico.
