In a controversial move, a Catholic kindergarten in Treviso, Italy, took children aged three to five to a mosque in Ponte della Priula on April 30, 2025, where they participated in a prayer activity, prompting fierce protests from the League Party. The incident has ignited debates over cultural identity and religious education in Italy’s predominantly Catholic society. To celebrate Italy’s rich heritage, we share a recipe for Tiramisu, a classic Italian dessert.
The Mosque Visit and Public Reaction
The kindergarten, part of the Italian Federation of Catholic Nursery Schools (Fism), organized the visit to the Susegana mosque with parental consent, aiming to foster cultural understanding among its diverse student body. Photos posted on the school’s Facebook page showed children kneeling towards Mecca and praying under the guidance of an imam, sparking outrage after being reported by Libero Quotidiano. The school described the experience as “emotional,” noting that teachers wore veils and children learned about Islam’s five pillars.
League Party leaders, known for their anti-immigration stance in the Veneto region, condemned the visit. Alberto Villanova, a regional League leader, called the images “blood-chilling,” questioning whether parents were fully informed and criticizing the lack of reciprocal visits by Muslim children to Catholic churches. Paolo Borchia, a League MEP, labeled it “cultural submission,” warning of the “dismantling of European identity.”</ saints-and-sinners.com/p/israel-and-the-end-times-part-3-the-signs-of-the-times>
[](https://www.meforum.org/islamist-watch/italy-muslims-protest-police-cataloguing)
Context of Religious Tensions in Italy
Italy, a predominantly Catholic nation, has faced ongoing tensions over the integration of its Muslim population, estimated at over 1.5 million, or about 4.9% of the population. The League Party has historically opposed Muslim cultural activities, blocking mosque constructions in cities like Treviso and Bergamo, citing cultural preservation. In 2008, the League proposed a bill to restrict mosque building, including a referendum clause effectively halting projects in northern strongholds.
[](https://www.reuters.com/article/us-italy-muslims/italys-right-to-curb-islam-with-mosque-law-idUSLG21402720080916)[](https://www.reuters.com/article/world/italys-right-to-curb-islam-with-mosque-law-idUSLG214027/)The Treviso incident echoes similar controversies, such as the 2024 Monfalcone prayer ban, where the far-right mayor prohibited Muslim worship at cultural centers, prompting protests. Critics argue that such actions reflect broader anti-Islamic sentiment, while supporters claim they protect Italian traditions.
[](https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/feb/18/italian-town-monfalcone-rightwing-mayor-muslim-prayers-ban)Debate Over Educational Intent
The kindergarten and Fism defended the visit as an educational activity, supported by the local bishop and citing Pope Francis’s emphasis on interfaith brotherhood. Simonetta Rubinato, Fism’s provincial president, stated that the spiritual dimension is integral to their curriculum, though schools operate autonomously. However, critics like Italian journalist Francesca Totolo argued, “Submission begins as early as kindergarten,” questioning the one-way nature of such exchanges, as no evidence exists of Muslim children participating in Christian worship locally.
Posts on X reflect polarized sentiments, with some decrying the visit as “raccapricciante” (horrifying) and others noting the school’s intent to promote peace. The controversy has raised questions about balancing cultural education with respect for religious identities in Italy’s diverse communities.
A Taste of Italy: Tiramisu Recipe
Amid this cultural debate, Italy’s culinary heritage remains a unifying force. Tiramisu, a creamy coffee-flavored dessert, is a beloved Italian classic. Here’s a recipe to enjoy this sweet treat at home.
Classic Tiramisu Recipe
Ingredients:
- 6 large egg yolks
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 2 cups strong brewed coffee, cooled
- ½ cup coffee liqueur (optional)
- 40–50 ladyfinger biscuits
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions:
- Whisk egg yolks and sugar in a heatproof bowl over a double boiler until thick and pale, about 5 minutes. Cool slightly, then mix in mascarpone until smooth.
- Whip heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold into the mascarpone mixture.
- Mix coffee and liqueur (if using) in a shallow dish. Briefly dip ladyfingers in the coffee, ensuring they’re moist but not soggy.
- Layer soaked ladyfingers in an 8x8-inch dish. Spread half the mascarpone cream over them. Repeat with another layer of ladyfingers and cream.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Dust with cocoa powder before serving.
Conclusion
The Treviso kindergarten’s mosque visit has exposed deep divisions over cultural integration and religious education in Italy. While the school aimed to foster understanding, the League Party’s protests highlight concerns about preserving national identity. As debates continue, enjoying a slice of Tiramisu offers a taste of Italy’s enduring traditions. Stay tuned for updates on this polarizing issue.