Viola vs. porpora
The Italian language has multiple words for 'purple', including 'viola' and 'porpora', which have subtle differences in shade and usage.
Viola
'Viola' refers to a lighter shade of purple, often associated with the color of violets or lavender.
Il cielo al tramonto era di un bellissimo colore viola.
(The sky at sunset was a beautiful violet color.)
Ho comprato una maglietta viola chiaro per l'estate.
(I bought a light purple t-shirt for the summer.)
Porpora
'Porpora' denotes a deeper, richer purple, often associated with royalty or luxury.
Il mantello del re era di un ricco colore porpora.
(The king's cloak was a rich purple color.)
Le pareti della sala erano dipinte di un intenso porpora.
(The walls of the hall were painted in an intense purple.)
Summary
While both 'viola' and 'porpora' refer to purple hues, 'viola' is generally used for lighter, more delicate shades, while 'porpora' is used for deeper, more intense purples. 'Viola' is more common in everyday language, while 'porpora' often carries connotations of luxury or importance.