'Italyism' 2: Roadside Marys

I'm saying it here & now... if Stephen, Caiden & I ever start a band (Stephen on drums, Caiden on bass and/or violin, me on piano), we will be called the 'Roadside Marys'. :)

Roadside Marys is my 'Italyism' #2 as it's the nickname we came up with for all the mini Virgin Mary (and/or Jesus) shrines tucked into the stone walls of every major Italian city street, or capping l'angolo (the corner) of many rural neighborhoods.

I asked our Special Italian Friends what these are about & was told that people believe Mother Mary will keep their families safe & in good health. In doing additional research, I learned that they're ancient street shrines originally put in place to protect passerbys, but today they've evolved into protectors of a surrounding community. They're also a nod to Italy's deep & enduring Catholic roots & they're technically called 'Madonnelle'. Italians say Madonnelle, but we'll always say 'Roadside Marys' because, well, that name just rocks. :)