What does this road sign mean?
seg-na-LE-ti-ca — stress on third syllable. stra-DA-le — stress on second syllable.
When you encounter an unfamiliar Italian road sign and need help understanding it.
'Segnale stradale' (road sign) — 'segnale' (sign/signal) + 'stradale' (road/relating to roads). Italian road signs follow European conventions — most are internationally recognisable shapes and colours. However, some local signs and markings may be unfamiliar to non-European drivers.
Cosa vuol dire 'divieto di sorpasso'?
What does 'no overtaking' mean?
Divieto di sorpasso = no overtaking — a solid yellow or white line on the road
Il segnale 'senso unico' cosa indica?
What does the sign 'one way' indicate?
Senso unico = one way street — very common in Italian historic centres
Cosa significa il triangolo con l'esclamativo?
What does the triangle with an exclamation mark mean?
Generic hazard warning — look for a secondary sign explaining the specific danger
Italy uses the European road sign system (Vienna Convention). Key signs: red circle with number = speed limit; blue circle = obligation (compulsory direction, mandatory speed); red triangle = warning; white circle with red cross = no entry; blue square = motorway. The 'corsia di emergenza' (emergency lane) on motorways must be kept clear at all times.