About us
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Founded in Pittsburgh by Italian-born entrepreneur and educator Viviana Altieri, Istituto Mondo Italiano was created with a simple yet ambitious vision: to build a bridge between Italy and the United States through language, culture, education, and human connection.

For more than fifteen years, Istituto Mondo Italiano has served as a vibrant hub where people of all backgrounds can discover, experience, and engage with the richness of Italian culture. Through language instruction, cultural programming, culinary experiences, educational initiatives, and community partnerships, Istituto Mondo Italiano promotes a deeper understanding of Italy's heritage while showcasing its continued contributions to innovation, entrepreneurship, research, and the arts.

More than a language school or cultural center, Istituto Mondo Italiano is a community builder. We believe that culture has the power to bring people together, create opportunities, foster dialogue, and strengthen relationships across generations and borders.
Our facilities have also served as a gathering place for community initiatives and institutional outreach in support of Italian citizens and the broader Italian-American community.

Today, Istituto Mondo Italiano continues to serve as a trusted point of reference for those seeking authentic connections with Italy—whether through language, travel, food, arts, history, professional exchange, or cultural discovery.

Our mission remains unchanged: to celebrate the best of Italy, build lasting relationships, and create opportunities for cultural, educational, and professional exchange that enrich both our local community and the global Italian experience.

"We don't simply teach Italian culture—we create opportunities for people, institutions, and communities to experience, share, and help shape its future."

Istituto Mondo Italiano is also the home of La Dolce Vita Boutique, and The Italian Radio Hour.

​Want to support our mission?
Three easy way to do so:

1. Donate your time (even a few hours a week count);
2. Donate material in Italian (need to lighten up your bookshelves? We’ll gladly take your books or Italian memorabilia);
3. Financial sponsorship towards one of our programs FREE to the public (Cinema Club, Book Club, exhibits) or  towards new additions to our Italian library.

We are hiring!

Please send us your inquiries or CV at: [email protected]

Learn more

Watch our interview on RAI! 

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST:  A PITTSBURGH con ISTITUTO MONDO ITALIANO (Broadcasted on Dec. 10th, 2020)

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Come visit us! Vieni a trovarci!

We are located in Regent Square,
​7604 Charleston Avenue, Pittsburgh PA 15218
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A presto!