Art and Food of Italy

A spring walk in Rome to discover its hidden places.

2016-03-21T08:04:00.000-07:00

There is no place like Rome in the springtime. The sun is shining, the air is warm, the trees are blossoming, and the flowers are blooming. La primavera arriva! This is the best time to go on an urban trek and to discover the lesser-known places of the Eternal City. Let’s seeking out these hidden treasures, places that only the savviest of Romans know. Churches, domed cathedrals, public squares, statues and fountains - all are steeped in symbolism and meaning that we shall discover together.

Here's some places from the ebook UNKNOWN ROME from Amazon Kindle Store at 3,00 $

1. Through the Aventine Keyhole
Up on Aventine Hill there’s a wonderful view you’d never know existed. Head to the locked green gates of the Priory of the Knights of Malta and find the ornate keyhole. Look through this keyhole and you will see the impressive dome of St Peter’s Basilica standing majestically at the end of a tree-lined avenue. Such a view doesn’t stay secret for long so you may have to wait a little for you chance to take a peek – but it’s well worth it.

2. The Non-Catholic Cemetery
If the buzz and busyness of Rome city centre all gets a little too much, take some contemplative time out at the Protestant Cemetery, now known as the ‘Non-Catholic Cemetery’. This peaceful spot backs onto the Pyramid of Cestius and is a great place to relax in the afternoon sun. You’ll spot a few well-known names on a wander around the tombstones too, like English poets John Keats and Percy Shelley.

3. The Museum of the Poor Souls in Purgatory
Located in the back of the Chiesa del Sacro Cuore del Suffragio on the banks of the Tiber, the tiny century-old Piccolo Museo Del Purgatorio, or "Museum of the Holy Souls in Purgatory," holds a collection of bibles, prayer books, tabletops, and articles of clothing said to have been singed by the hands of souls in purgatory.

4. The skeleton crypt
Located on Via Veneto, near Barbarini Square, the crypt is a small space comprising several tiny chapels located beneath the church of Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini. Entrance is by donation, the door manned by a Capuchin monk. The bones in this crypt are nailed to the wall and arranged in patterns: cross, floral, arch, triangle and circle, as well as forming objects. A large clock is composed of vertebrae, foot bones and finger bones. The single hour hand represents the idea that time has no beginning or end.

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SIENA: A TOWN ON A HUMAN SCALE

2013-10-20T06:54:00.000-07:00

"SIENA IS A WORLD UNTO ITSELF IN WHICH THE PAST IS ALWAYS PRESENT AND UNAVOIDABLE".

ITALO CALVINO

Every city displays the effects of its vicissitudes, but in Siena they are more prominent and lasting, and their continuity is more explicit and sought after than elsewhere. Siena's history is quite long. Siena’s hypothesized Etruscan origins are supported by an increasing number of archaeological findings. Nonetheless, over the centuries locals have preferred to believe the lively mediaeval legend according to which the town's founder was Remus’s son Senio, who fled Rome on horseback together with his brother Aschio. With them they carried a carving of a she-wolf which was to become a symbol of Siena. Romulus’s knights followed them through Lazio and southern Tuscany, until they finally reached the fateful hill known as Siena Vecchia. According to legend, Senio and Aschio founded Siena following an almost interminable, mythological race known as “Palio alla Lunga”.

Siena’s civic history was then marked by the growing predominance of a number of upper-class merchant families such as Buonsignori, Salimbeni, Tolomei and Piccolomini that created a new oligarchy. These families were responsible for Siena’s great financial, political and cultural advent during what has nostalgically come to be considered as its Golden Age. In fact, they are still honoured by six knights that trail behind the Palio-bearing cart during the pre-race procession.

The Gothic dream

“AS I SCRUTINIZE SIENA’S ANCIENT BUILDINGS, TIMELESS DWELLINGS WHERE I WOULD LOVE TO LIVE ONE DAY WITH A WINDOW OF MY OWN OVERLOOKING THE CLAY TILES AND THE GREEN SHUTTERS, I TRY VAINLY TO UNDERSTAND WHEREIN LIES THE SECRET THAT SIENA WHISPERS AND RINGS ON AND ON IN MY EARS AS LONG AS I SHALL LIVE."

JOSÉ SARAMAGO,
NOBEL PRIZE WINNER

Siena's intact circuit of city walls is entirely made of bricks. Palazzo Pubblico and its tower are also made of bricks, as are the mediaeval dwellings built by nobles. So is Santa Maria della Scala and the other large churches dedicated to the Franciscans, Domenicans and Servi. The bricks have changed in colour over the centuries: The dark red of the oldest constructions gave way to a reddish-orange in the 1500s. The streets were originally paved with dark brown bricks laid on their edges or in a herring-bone pattern. Bricks make up the Medici Fortress and the neo-Gothic constructions undertaken in the 1600s
and 1700s, such as Palazzo Sansedoni in Piazza del Campo. The same technique was used in later centuries to build Palazzo Buonsignori, Palazzo Marsili and Palazzo del
Capitano right up to the 1900s. The neo-Gothic rebuilding of the Salicotto area was entirely carried out with bricks, as was the newly-built outlying neighbourhood called Ravacciano to which many of Salicotto's original families moved.

Gothic art, thanks to the contact occurred during the fourteenth century, with France and Venice, is one of Siena's most fascinating feature. One of its most interesting example is the famous cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, as well the Duomo and some elements of the Town Hall located in Piazza del Campo. For nearly a century, between year 200 and 300, Siena played a starring role in Europe thanks to its mercantile aristocracy and intense banking activities. After losing its independence in 1559, Siena experienced a period of decline up to half of year 1800, when he began to grow again with the construction of the railway, which connects Siena to Empoli, and with the first University Hospital of Italy, founded in 1883. The image of Siena in the world was revived early in '900 with the birth of the great exhibition of Senese Ancient Art and the Accademia Musicale Senese Chigiana.
Art is thus what has most influenced Siena, making it one of the most visited tourist city: Piazza del Campo, the Duomo, Palazzo Comunale and the Torre del Mangia attract visitors from around the world. Another attractions of Siena is wine and food, with the Italian Wine Cellar, located in the Medici Fortress, with the sausages and the ancient Sienese sweets, like ricciarelli, gingerbread, the copate and cavalucci.

The palio

Colours, crowd, celebratory shouts, a piazza covered with tufa, ten horses ridden bareback in a race that lasts only a few seconds. For those who are seeing it for the first time, this is the Palio. For the Sienese it is life, passion, history. It’s the miracle of a game that becomes real life, where there is a place for joy and pain, courage and intrigue, loyalty and betrayal.
A mediaeval inheritance which, on 2nd July and 16th August deeply affects Siena life and is always a catharsis.

The culture of food

Sienese cooking is steeped in history. Its vast array is fascinating to study and even more enjoyable to taste. Local starters include “bruschetta” (toasted crusty bread seasoned with
garlic and extra-virgin olive oil), “crostini” (bread rounds spread with meat or beef spleen paté) and cured meats which have been made with the same techniques for centuries, as is shown by the Cinta breed of swine depicted in Lorenzetti’s Buongoverno freso. The locally-produced sausages and cold meats -“buristo”, “capocollo”, “finocchiona”– boast a long tradition, actually two long traditions: they were produced in Fontebranda and Salicotto, where the filling was in fact salted and cooked.

Typical second courses include world- renowned Chianina beef, Cinta pork, wild boar, range chicken, pheasant, goose and pigeon. Lamb and rabbit are grilled, roated or sautéd. Artusi, the author of one of Italy's first cookbooks, criticised Tuscans for eating too many vegetables, and Siena certainly has a vast assortment available in its gardens and woodlands. Truffles arrive from San Giovanni d’Asso and wild asparagus come from the Montagnola, while Monte Amiata provides mushrooms and wild greens. As mealtime draws to a close, syrupy “vinsanto” may be accompanied by the sweets enjoyed in Siena since the Middle Ages: “copate”, “cavallucci”, old-fashioned spiced “panforte (panpepato)” or the sweet, fruit-filled type dedicated to queen Margherita di Savoia, and finally “ricciarelli” made of sweet and bitter almonds which are Siena’s most unique and aristocratic cake.

Enoteca Italiana

Siena’s Enoteca Italiana is a public organisation which has promoted the quality of Italian wines since the 1970s. It is located in the Fortezza Medicea which Grand Duke Cosimo
I commissioned from Baldassarre Lanci in 1561. The vast catalogue of available wines is continuously updated by the tasting commission and features wines from all over Italy, with a predominance of Tuscan varieties. Siena’s wines are particularly well-represented, starting with those awarded the DOCG appellation: Vernaccia from San Gimignano, Chianti, Chianti Classico, Nobile di Montepulciano and Brunello di Montalcino. No other Italian province boasts so many different, prestigious wines. They accompany Siena’s Tuscan cuisine and express veritable complicity between towns and the surrounding countryside. of choice.

As the poet Mario Luzi wrote “It is simultaneously both reality and a dream”. And so it was for another renowned visitor, Nobel prize winner Albert Camus, who saw Siena in his youth and was later to write in his notes: “…most of all I’d like to go back and hike down the road from Monte San Savino to Siena and pass through that countryside’s vineyards and olive groves which I can still smell. I want to walk over those bluish hills of “tufa” that lead away as far as the eye can see to finally make out Siena on the horizon at sunset with its towers like some perfect Constantinople. I want to arrive at night, penniless and alone, sleep next to some wellspring and be the first to enter Piazza del Campo in the morning. That palm-frond shape seems like a hand offering up the highest achievement of humanity after ancient Greece". After all, that’s why UNESCO declared Siena’s historical centre to be a world heritage site in 1995.

Sardinia and its Secrets: beaches, nature and mystery

2013-08-27T04:52:00.000-07:00

In Sardinia is possible to enjoy a holiday in lots and different ways. The geological nature of the territory, its climate and geographic position make Sardinia a special and unique place. Everyone arriving in Sardinia for the first time has the feeling of entering another world consisting of endless spaces and majestic landscapes. The sea reigns over this region with its colors that migrate into the coves, along the coasts, towards the beaches and the most popular resorts.

BEACHES AND NATURE

Visiting the Maddalena Archipelago and its “seven sisters,” the main islands of the archipelago, and sailing along the coast of the Maddalena National Park with its lively seabeds, perfect for scuba-diving lovers, is an incredible experience.
Caprera, the second biggest Island after Maddalena, is full of pastures and pinewoods, and shows its visitors the places where Garibaldi lived, with a house museum in the typical Mediterranean vegetation, which guards the memorabilia of the “hero of two worlds,” as well as his and his family’s grave.

Again on Sardinia's northwest coast, in front of the Natural Park of Asinara Island, we can find one of the most famous tourist resorts, Stintino, which combines the charm of a lively fishing village with high-quality accommodation facilities. This small seaside town, appearing as a painting with its white houses and the contrast between the crystal-clear sea and light blue sky, offers endless leisure possibilities, from golf to excursions and scuba diving, from cycling to horseback riding.

On the northwest coast Costa Smeralda is surely the most renowned place in Sardinia not only for its constant society life, but also for its unforgettable beauty. A charming and contradictory environment, characterized by the wild and proud Mediterranean shrub-land (Macchia or Maquis), strange-shaped white granite rocks, beaches, coves and bays that your eyes have never seen yet.
On the southern coast one of the most magical as well as diversified stretches of coastline is to be found in Pula. Balmy beaches and coves, Roman excavations and blindingly white sand dunes endow the area with its richness.

A few kilometers down the road to the west is the expansive sandy cove and aquamarine waters of Baia Chia. With its silky sand, up to 30 meter-high white dunes and crystalline, turquoise-hued water is the reminiscent of an idyllic Caribbean beach. The bay is bordered by majestic, age-old junipers and a few stone traces of the Phoenician city of Bithia whose site Baia Chia now occupies. And if it’s your lucky day, you might catch a glimpse of dolphins and, on the lake, flamingos. Chia is also a wonderful venue for surfers because the winds blow just the right way. On this lovely bay there is also a lovely restaurant, Dune di Campana, where the aromatic Mediterranean maquis can be enjoyed along with a cool, refreshing drink.,

Facing the bay is Su Giudeu, a teeny island that you can wade across to. And Baia Chia Restaurant on the opposite side of the bay is also a lovely place to while away a hot summer afternoon. Cala Cipolla, the bay next door to Baia Chia, is only accessible on foot, but its picturesque beach and cliffs make it worth the walk. It also features seven reefs at a depth of 25 meters, a veritable paradise for scuba divers. A few kilometers down the road is the expansive sandy cove and aquamarine waters of Tuerredda. Those wishing to explore Sardinia’s numerous bays extending to the island’s southernmost point, Capo Teluada, can rent a boat here for the trip.

ART AND ARCHAEOLOGY

How many times did you hear about Stonehenge? Do you know that Sardinia has many mysterious buildings very likely with Stonehenge? This is a land rich of mystery so let's travel from Cagliari to Nuoro to discover the evidence of a millennial civilization and the traditions and customs of this marvellous people.
Away from crowded beaches there is a charming and mysterious place to visit.
Not very much is known of the ancient Nuragic civilization, except that it was a people of shepherds and farmers grouped into small communities who lived in Sardinia for 8 centuries. It built these extraordinary structures (there are about 700 throughout the island) whose use is still not known: Perhaps defensive fortresses or palaces or temples. In any event, a nuraghe represented the centre of the social life of these tribes that left us other megalithic buildings such as necropolises, tombs and places of worship.The starting point is Cagliari, the regional capital and main Sardinian harbour where visitors should visit the National Museum of Archaeology, which is the most important one in the world in terms of the Nuragic civilization. It holds most of the materials discovered in the Nuraghes. They did produce art in the form of beautiful small bronze statues; typically representing Gods, the chief of the village, soldiers, animals and women. There are also stone carvings or statues representing female divinities.

Take the trunk road from Cagliari that crosses the Campidano plain, where the ruins of nuraghi appear, including the quite visible one of Sa Uga. The second leg in this trip is Barumini, the location of the extraordinary complex of Su Nuraxi (declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site), which is dominated by a majestic nuraghe surrounded by a large village that was inhabited from 1600 BC to the 3rd century AD. 4 lateral towers joined by a wall surround the main nuraghe, which is 15 metres high. Both floors are intact inside the nuraghe, where there is also a semi-circular courtyard and a well (20 m deep). The huts are also quite visible and are generally round. Continuing north, a stop should be made on the Giara plateau to admire the horses that live in the wild. The third destination is Isili, a small town overlooking the Sarcidano Valley and destination for free climbers and rowers. There are several nuraghi in the area, including Is Paras, whose beautiful façade is the highest in Sardinia (almost 12 metres). There are also domus de janas here (house of fairies or of witches), which are Neolithic tombs dug out of the rock and simulating the inside of houses. There are also several examples of domus de janas in Goni and Pimentel. After a stop in Nurallao, which is the location of the megalithic tomb of Aiodda, the journey continues towards Laconi, the town of the menhirs, that is monoliths of various sizes, at times finely engraved, and many of which are in the Civic Museum of Archaeology. The ruins of a medieval castle surrounded by a regional park and several nuraghi are also worth visiting here. Aritzo is situated on the lower slopes of the Gennargentu Mountain, which is home to the mouflon and golden eagle. It is characterized by houses with stone façades and large wooden balconies. Heading north, 3 other stops should be made: Fonni, the highest town in Sardinia at 1,000 m asl, Gavoi and beautiful Gusana Lake and Ollolai, in the area of San Basilio, where there are ancient burials that were obtained by using dry stone walls to enclose the clefts created by nature. Make a detour to Sedilo before reaching Nuoro. It is the location of tombe dei giganti (a type of gallery grave) and a Nuragic palace. This is also where there is one of the largest hypogeum necropolises in Sardinia - the domus de janas of Iloi with 34 tombs uncovered to date.

SARDINIAN CRAFTS

All Sardinian crafts can be purchased in Cagliari. Isili is home to hand-woven carpets, bedspreads and knapsacks. Visitors in Nuoro can buy unique jewellery, including magnificent filigree pieces, wooden masks, carpets, tapestries, and handmade pillows and curtains. Wooden engraved chests can be bought in Aritzo, and braided asphodel baskets can be purchased in Ollolai. Marvellous pottery is available throughout Sardinia.

Gastronomic products to purchase or taste: Bread, extra virgin olive oil, ravioli and dumplings, honey, spit-roasted meat (above all suckling pig, followed by lamb and goat) scented with aromatic herbs, cheese (pecorino, ricotta and caciocavallo), cured meats (sausage, ham and bacon) and sweets, which are often filled with fresh cheese or walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts and raisins. Quality Sardinian wines: Cannonau, Nuragus, Monica, Mandrolisai and Girò. Excellent dessert wines: Malvasia, Moscato and Nasco.

The Aeolian Islands: unique, beautiful and still undiscovered

2013-06-20T01:45:00.001-07:00

Stunning cobalt sea, windswept mountains and a charming film about a postman go some way to explaining why the Aeolians (Isole Eolie) are the European Holy Grail for island-lovers. The seven islands of Lipari, Vulcano, Salina, Panarea, Stromboli, Alicudi and Filicudi are part of a huge 200km volcanic ridge and lie between the smoking stack of Mt Etna and the threatening mass of Vesuvius above Naples. Collectively, the islands exhibit a unique range of volcanic characteristics, which earned them a place on Unesco’s World Heritage list in 2000.

On the routes of the mythical Ausonians and Cnydian sailors north-east of the Sicilian coast, whipped by a salty wind, the Aeolian archipelago spreads out, like a fan, its seven enchanted isles which, because of their explosive volcanic nature, are sisters of the Hawaiian islands, the pearls of the Pacific. The Aeolian islands, starting in remote times, were colonised by Neolithic peoples interested in exploiting obsidian, an insuperable material for making carving tools. Between the sixteenth and fourteenth centuries B.C., the islands became an important commercial stage on the metal way, and in particular on the tin route, which from the British Isles went down to the orient, passing through the Straits of Messina. Later, in the Roman epoch, the archipelago prospered with the sulphur, alum and salt trade, which however gradually declined, until the islands were abandoned. This was due to further eruptions and also to the fact that the Second Nicea Council designated them a dwelling of the devil and a place of physical manifestations of this disturbing presence. Then in the Norman epoch the islands were gradually re-peopled and started a new season of splendours, taking on what is more or less their physiognomy now.

Panarea, situated on the Cala Junca cliff, Capo Milazzese, conserves intact the vestiges of a culture which here went on from 1440 to 1270 B.C., giving rise to a settlement of major archaeological interest. Inhabitants of Panarea are called "panarioti". They live in the main three centers such as: Pietro, Drauto, Ditella. The scenery, characterized by flourishing mediterranean vegetation, is rich in thermal springs and hydrothermal vent, in the sea marvellous and suggestive rocks emerge among them we remember: Basiluzzo, Dattilo, Lisca Nera and Lisca Bianca, Bottaro, Spinazzola and Formiche.

As you approach Lipari, it appears lively and picturesque, dominated by the rock on which the ancient town stands; it has always been the heart of the archipelago. In its museum, which is one of the most interesting in the Mediterranean, there are countless vestiges of the history of the island and the successive stratifications, as in a gigantic palimpsest of a period of 5000 years of civilisation perfectly legible in the open diggings among the imposing walls with bastions.

On Lipari a volcanological tour is an absolute must, amid flows of obsidian and white expanses of pumice, materials with the same chemical composition, differing only in their state: the former glassy, spongy the other one, because of the sudden reduction of temperature in the magma in the final phase of eruptions. Between Canneto and Acquacalda, two nice maritime boroughs not yet ruined by mass tourism, along the sea, in the direction of Punta Castagna, lies the spectacular obsidian flow of the Rocce Rosse (Red Rocks). Between the Pomiciazzo gorge and Lami, a lunar landscape heralds in the now inactive crater of Monte Chirica, beyond which the soft cliffs of Campobianco go down to the sea and into the crystalline waters off the Porticello beach. Likewise unrivalled are the panoramas that one can enjoy from the Quattrocchi heights towards the monumental Perciato cliffs, to the sides of which there are the picturesque "needles", beyond which the gaseous and sulphurous fumes of Vulcano rise. But Lipari is not only this. It is also in the old part of the town, a nice salon from the Umberto period with windows and balconies as delicate as lace, from which multicoloured cascades of geraniums and delicate carnations descend. An island for all tastes, with shady gardens scented with jasmine and basil, sunny terraces facing the sea, where gastronomic hospitality is perpetuated with its own physiognomy and traditions.

On Salina one must not fail to visit Monte Porri and Monte Fossa delle Felci. On the latter, at almost 1000 metres above sea level, the ancient crater has been colonised by gigantic aquiline ferns which are added to the luxuriant vegetation of Salina, conferring on the latter an almost tropical look. Not far away, Filicudi and Alicudi, between which the soaring spire of the Canna rock stand out against the horizon. Both distant from the din of mass tourism, they offer scope for abandon and meditation, which are unthinkable at the noisy latitude of our civilisation. Near Canna, sea beds rich in sponges and coral offer unexpected sights for those who love underwater photography. Another highly fascinating sight in the archipelago is the basalt rocks of Basiluzzo, Dattilo and Lisca Bianca facing Panarea, with which, as Strabo tells us, they once formed a single island, Evonimos, which a cataclysm split into the present ones. Monumental solitudes characterise this group of rocks near which, from imposing mouths of submerged hydrothermal vent, gurgling bubbles of gaseous vapours rise, which, in ancient times, were the scenario of probable worship of Hephaestus.

Every year, during the first weekend of June,Salina plays host to a gastronomic gathering in honour of the humble caper. A whole festival dedicated to a small green bud might sound a little eccentric, but for the Italian “slow food” enthusiasts the wild caper symbolises all they most cherish in quality ingredients: it is organic, it is a local speciality and it is best eaten in season and enjoyed in situ. The hour-and-a-half pilgrimage by boat from Sicily adds to the appeal for the slow foodies and the fact that Salina produces the best capers in the world clinches the excuse for a celebration.
Naturally, the “slow food” festivities cannot be hurried so for three days leading up to the main event – La Festa del Cappero in Fiore (caper flower party) – there are wine tastings, degustation dinners and even a boat tour around the island in pursuit of other locally produced goodies.
Each of these events is open to visitors and together provide the perfect way to get an authentic and concentrated taste of the greenest of the Aeolian Islands.

Stromboli rises out of the water with the dry symmetry of its shapes perennially crowned by eruptive fumes. Its impervious Ginostra harbour is the smallest one in the world, while, beyond the fire zone, where moaning and hissing the lava touches the sea, the villages of Piscità, Ficogrande and Scari, open up, airy and white, gathered around the white mass of the San Vincenzo church. Beyond the very black glassy beach, where there are reeds rising from the abysses of the Tyrrhenian, raises Strombolicchio, the primeval duct of the volcano, a fanciful natural sculpture in which fire, water and wind have left their eternal impress.

Vulcano still appears like a relict of the world's prehistory, perennially fuming amid lava flows and mud bubbling with gas. The eruptive mouth rises to a height of 386 metres, where the big crater, which you can get to without too much difficulty and peril, raises its crest which dominates the western and eastern harbours, the Valley of Monsters and the profiles, gradually further and further away, of the other islands. Well worth a visit are the alum grottoes and the sulphur mines, where in the Bourbon epoch a population of damned people lived forced to extract the precious mineral. On the coast, in the north-western part of the island, there is the imposing Cavallo (horse) grotto, along the wild and half-deserted shore which slopes gently down to the sea with the black Gelso beaches over which there is an euphorbia scrub and twisted prickly pear plants. Places to visit: an hour excursion to the Gran Cratere through a path that climbs up to 400 m. where a breathtaking landscape can be admired. What is more there are even thermal waters of porto di Levante, the grotta del Cavallo or dellì'Eremita, the scoglio delle Sirene with its fine black sand and the valle dei Mostri of Vulcanello.

Alicudi, the youngest of Aeolian islands, is one of the less explored islands. It has a small number of inhabitants and does not have carriage roads. Its west side is rich in steep slopes which make it difficult to cross, while the east side is charcterized by terraces. The Falco della Regina a small island that represent an oasis of peace, out of crowded tourist circuits, offers different accomodations such as: hotels, room for rent, bed & breakfast.This beautiful small island can be admired from Alicudi.
Filicudi this small and remote island of Aeolian, is an ideal destination for a peaceful holiday, for tourists who want to leave behind the chaos of big city life. The island is charcterized by the presence of the mountain Fossa delle Felci (773 m.). Its inhabitants (almost 200 people) live in Filicudi porto and Vallechiesa, these areas are composed by houses with thick white walls that make an excellent contrast with the blue coloured sea. The island is charcterized by two types of accomodations such as: room for rent and hotels.

Summer in Rome: what to see and do

2013-06-19T10:28:00.000-07:00

Legend holds that Romulus and Remus founded Rome in 753 B.C. — the mythical image of the two brothers suckled by the she-wolf, other than the Colosseum, has become the iconographic symbol for the Capital. Yet what has truly made Rome the legendary city that it is its history: the epicenter of the Roman Republic, the Roman Empires hub for political and cultural life. The areas making up theWorld Heritage Site contains 25,000 environmental and archaeological points of interest, among which the Imperiai Forum certainlу stands out. Not far, close to Aventine Hill, we find two master works: the Terme di Caracalla and the Circus Maximus.

Discover the ancient Rome and its legends from the ebook LEGENDARY ROME edited by Lighthouse publisher, here are some gems from the ebook ...

Mythical Roman 'She-Wolf' CaveThe Eternal City's creation myth was sacred to ancient Romans, and the cave where a wolf was said to have nursed the twins was a place of worship.
Archaeologists have uncovered the legendary grotto in which Rome's founders were said to have been nursed by a "she-wolf." It's a cave, 52 feet below the Palatine Hill and decorated with seashells, mosaics, and pumice stones is likely that very memorial to the city's founders.

What ancient secrets are hidden in this place...?

Roman Forum: The Legend of Castor and Pollux

The Temple is dedicated to the mythic twin brothers, Castor and Pollux, also known as the Dioscuri, who demonstrate the favor the gods had toward the Roman Empire.According to legend while the Romans were fighting the Latins, two men more valiant than mortal men appeared in battle in front of the Roman commander, Postumuis. These gallant warriors lead the Roman cavalry into battle, and with their spears, drove the Latins into retreat. Back in Rome, at the same time, two men appeared at a fountain near the Temple of Vesta looking exhausted yet victorious with their sweating horses. The Roman crowd gathered around to hear news of the army, but the men did not speak a word and left the city never to be seen again. It was later decided the two men appearing at battle and in the forum were the Doiscuri twins Castor and Pollux. To honor the two immortal heroes a Temple was built near the fountain at which they stood in the Forum.

How many other legends in the forum...?

Il Colosseo (Colosseum)

Properly called the Amphitheatrum Flavium (Flavian amphitheatre), the building was later known as the Colosseum not because it was big, but because of a gold-plated colossal statue, now lost, that stood alongside. The arena was about 500 metres (a third of a mile) in circumference, could seat over 50,000 people - some scholars estimate capacity crowds numbered as many as 87,000 - and could be filled or emptied in ten minutes through a network of vomitoria (exits) that remains the basic model for stadium design today.

Circus Maximus

The oldest and largest of Rome's ancient arenas, the Circus Maximus hosted chariot races from at least the fourth century BC. It was rebuilt by Julius Caesar to hold as many as 300,000 people. Races involved up to 12 rigs of four horses each; the first charioteer to complete the seven treacherous, sabotage-ridden laps around the spina (ridge in the centre) won a hefty monetary prize and the adoration of the populace.

Learn more about Circus Maxiumus...

The most stunning landmarks in Rome presented as you have never seen them before!

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Exhibitions and events

Rock in Roma - May 29 - July 29

The 2013 edition of this massive rock festival at Rome’s Capanelle race course brings international artists such as the Arctic Monkeys, Bruce Springsteen, Mark Knopfler, Blur, Deep Purple, The Killers, Neil Young and Green Day.

www.rockinroma.com

Helmut Newton/Art of New York - until July 21

The Palazzo delle Esposizioni gallery has two shows running simultanerously until July 21: Empire State, Art in New York Today shows works by 25 artists working in and interacting with the Big Apple; Helmut Newton – White Women/Sleepless Nights/Big News contains 200 of the German photographer’s classic images.

www.palazzoesposizioni.it

Estate Romana - June-October

The “Roman Summer” is the umbrella term for the citywide programme of open-air concerts, dance and theatre performances, cinema screenings and other events that animate Rome through the hotter months. Highlights include the Isola del Cinema film festival on the Tiber Island.

www.estateromana.comune.roma.it

Turin a city between past and future

2013-06-01T12:06:00.003-07:00

Over the past 100 years or so Turin has rather become Italy's forgotten city. For tourists, it comes a long way down the list behind the magnetic must-see destinations of Venice, Florence, Rome and Naples. For Italians, Turin is still perceived as a kind of "grim up north" metropolis of heavy industry, with its emblematic Fiat factories.

Today Torino is a city of art, a modern and exciting one that looks ahead towards tomorrow. Torino’s future has already begun: the city is capable not only of guaranteeing infrastructures and services to businesses, but a 360° span of proposals that have granted it access to the prestigious Michelin Guide’s classification as a “three-star city” along with Florence, Venice and Rome. This is because Torino offers a quality of life made up of art, culture, gastronomy and art de vivre that can only be found here.

When in the city what immediately strikes the eye are its surroundings, with imposing Alpine peaks that encircle its skyline. The Piedmontese Capital presents itself as a city with a singular charm: emperors traversed it, kingdoms arose in it, and it was thus that power left its indelible marks on it. A metropolis that regards its past by looking toward the future, with the ambition of a city that, as a tiny village in the Region of Piedmont, became the capital of both a realm and a nation, only to later become a capital of cars and cinema.

During the day, it is possible to go for a walk through the streets or under the 18 kilometres of arcades to admire the store windows of the fashion world’s finest designers or to visit the artisans’ shops or those of artists. Without omitting the pleasure of wandering around through the many markets: from Porta Palazzo, Europe’s largest outdoor market, to Balon, the famous flea market that features antique goods. There are many other markets to be visited, from neighbourhood markets to those that present typical gastronomic products.

When the time comes for a break, there are many time-honoured cafés to choose from that are a part of Torino’s customs and culture. The decision is whether to choose a classy caffè or a funky bar. Traditionalists will tell you not to miss the celebrated Belle Epoque Caffè Platti (Corso Vittorio Emanuele II 72, ), but a more fun time is to had at the lively student haunt Pasticceria Abrate (Via Po 10), or the terminally hip La Drogheria (Piazza Vittorio Veneto 18), whose DJ has everyone dancing even before the official aperitivo hour is over. If you find the buffet is not enough to fill you up, head for fashionable trattoria Pastis (Piazza Emanuele Filiberto 9b, +39 011 521 1085) or, for a traditional Piemontese meal, try the Tre Galline (Via Bellezia 37, +39 011 436 6553).

Nature

New projects will offer the citizens of the “city with the most beautiful natural location” (as Le Corbusier once said) an environment that is even more immaculate. Even distinguished philosophers like Rousseau and Nietzsche agreed with the great architect Le Corbusier that Torino could be defined as one of the most fascinating of cities. These projects plan upon recuperating banks of the rivers and transforming them into a single river park that measures 70 kilometres in length with a 17 million square metre surface.

They were referring to the extraordinary backdrop of the Alps, the rolling hills so close to the centre of the city, the Po and other rivers – Dora Riparia, Stura and Sangone – that flow through the region’s capital as well as the 18 million square metres of greenery and 300 kilometres of tree-lined streets that make this city one of the world’s wealthiest from an environmental viewpoint.

A heritage that is fully enjoyed by residents – who love to spend their free time outdoors – and embellished by great public projects such as the new river park along the Dora that is redelivering an immense green area dotted with well-equipped areas, bicycle routes, pedestrian and play areas to its citizens.

Walks and hikes in the Parco della Collina Torinese (Park of the Hills of Torino) – made up of Bosco del Vaj (Vaj woods), Collina di Superga (Superga hill) as well as the hills of il Colle della Maddalena and Cavoretto - offer the capital an opportunity and a heritage of inestimable natural wealth. The Parco del Meisino (Meisino park) is a naturalistic oasis in which one of Europe’s most important colonies of grey herons live in an urban environment. A visit to the historic Giardini Reali (royal gardens), a canoe ride along the waters of the Po river, a jog through the Parco del Valentino (Valentino park) up to the Italia 61 park, a bike ride along the many bicycle routes immersed in green are all a must-see for anyone living in Torino or discovering it.

The best way for discovering the many facets of Turin is..

Is to go on a tour of the city's historical centre taking in the museums and foundations that reconstruct its history and reveal its artistic and cultural treasures. This includes Europe's largest collection of archaeological finds at the Egyptian Museum, or the more recent history of the 'seventh art' brilliantly presented at the National Museum of Cinema, the exceptional treasure of ancient art held in Palazzo Madama, and then of course, Palazzo Reale, the powerhouse behind Italy's very first capital.
Turin is also a vital point of reference for contemporary art: works and installations produced over the last thirty years by internationally famous artists are placed for all to see in the open air or on display at the country's most important Museum of Contemporary Art within the 17th century Castle of Rivoli.

The mainly baroque art of the many places of worship in the town's centre blends with the spirituality to be found therein: the Sanctuary of the Consolata and the Sanctuary of Maria Ausiliatrice are a couple of Turin's best loved churches. Other places that are a must are the Duomo where there will be held the Ostension of the Holy Shroud in the spring, the twin churches in Piazza San Carlo, and the Church of San Lorenzo with its famous dome by Guarini or the Basilica of Superga which, as well as holding the tombs of the Savoy family, also offers a breathtaking view of the city and mountains. Lastly, just a stone's throw from the city centre, palaces, castles and fortresses dominate the hills, plains and mountains of the province of Turin. These are of inestimable value and some of the most outstanding are the Royal Residences, a legacy of exceptional cultural and environmental interest, leading to their denomination as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.

The mainly baroque art of the many places of worship in the town's centre blends with the spirituality to be found therein: the Sanctuary of the Consolata and the Sanctuary of Maria Ausiliatrice are a couple of Turin's best loved churches. Other places that are a must are the Duomo where there will be held the Ostension of the Holy Shroud in the spring, the twin churches in Piazza San Carlo, and the Church of San Lorenzo with its famous dome by Guarini or the Basilica of Superga which, as well as holding the tombs of the Savoy family, also offers a breathtaking view of the city and mountains. Lastly, just a stone's throw from the city centre, palaces, castles and fortresses dominate the hills, plains and mountains of the province of Turin. These are of inestimable value and some of the most outstanding are the Royal Residences, a legacy of exceptional cultural and environmental interest, leading to their denomination as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.

Modica: a baroque masterpiece in the heart of Sicily

2013-01-13T02:31:00.000-08:00

“The village was a theatre, a proscenium of pink stone, a feast of wonders. It is like the scent of jasmine at dusk. I can never cease to talk about it, to return to it to view myself in such a tender, distant mirage.."

Gesualdo Bufalino

Modica is located in deep canyons carved out of the rock by the rivers which traverse the valley. Until the early part of the 20th Century the "Modicano" river flowed through the valley and in the 18th and 19th Centuries the river powered 20 water mills in the area. During this period 17 bridges were constructed and for this reason the area is often referred to as the Venice of the South. Another typical feature of Modica is the position of many of the houses in the old part of the city, constructed one on top of the other. Many of these houses are extensions of ancient grottoes inhabited since pre-historic times. There are around 700 grottoes that have been used or lived in or used at some time or another. Some are still on open view and others have been incorporated into new buildings. Of significant historical importance is the Necropolis of Quartiriccio in the Vignazza district of the historic centre. The necropolis contains several dozen tombs carved out of the rocks dating back to 2200 B.C. and remains in excellent condition. The urban fabric which clings to the two sides of the valley and to the hillside of Pizzo is a mass of small houses, tiny streets and long stairways. Here churches are not usually located in squares but face onto imposing and magnificent flights of steps. The predominant style of the architecture of the monuments in the city is what is commonly referred to as late Baroque. The presence of numerous churches, aristocratic residences and monuments of historic importance led to the classification of the city as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Of particular significance are the Duomo di San Giorgio, the undisputed symbol of Sicilian Baroque, the Duomo di San Pietro, the Chiesa di San Giovanni Evangelista, the Castello dei Conti di Modica, a fortified garrison, military base and prison which for centuries represented the seat of political and administrative power for the Counts of Modica and subsqeuently for the Governor of the city, the Palazzo della cultura, a former Benedictine monastery, the Palazzo degli Studi and the Teatro Garibaldi. Today Modica has become an elite tourist destination and many artists and architects, both Italian and foreign, have decided to move their base to the city attracted by its charm and by its hidden caverns. Modica has numerous top class hotels and restaurants which feature in some of the best guide books. The city is also famous for its chocolate which has been produced here since the Arab occupation and whose recipe remains, in part, a secret. Every year for the past few years a festival dedicated to this precious commodity, Eurochocolate, takes place between April and May.

Modican chocolate. Delicacy from another time!

"Remaining on the topic of delicacies, the flavor of Modica's chocolate is reminiscent of that of Alicante (and I don't know of whitch other Spanish towns): tow types of dark chocolate - with vanilla or with cinnamon - to be eaten by the square or to melt into a beverage: unparalleled flavor such that be' who tasted it feels that he has discovered the archetype, the absolute". With these words the author Leonardo Sciascia (the Count of Modica, 1983) pays homage to one of the signature delicacies of his Sicily: Modican Chocolate. Modican chocolate's origins reach far back in history. In fact it is still made according to the same methods used by the Aztecs during the time of the Spanish conquistadors. It was the Spaniards themselves who brought the 'xocoàtl' to Modica, a product which the inhabitants of Mexico extracted from cocoa beans by grinding it on a stone called metate, so as to release the cocoa butter and obtain a granular paste.

What differentiates Modican chocolate is the fact that it is made from a unique 'cold' process: the cocoa is processed at 40° C with the addition of caster sugar. Unable to melt or blend, the sugar gives Modican chocolate its characteristic 'rough' appearance and its granular consistency. Modican chocolate is sold in a unique bar form, rectangular with beveled edges and three grooves on the surface. It is a nonuniform brown color and has the aroma of toasted cocoa with slightly sour undertones. It is traditionally flavored with either vanilla or cinnamon, but is also commonly found with chili pepper carob, coffee, or citrus.

The Consortium for the Safeguard of Modican Chocolate was born in 2003 for the purpose of protecting the history, the memory, and the recipe of Modica's chocolate. It is a collective of twenty of the city's producers working along side the Ragusa Chamber of Commerce in order to establish production regulations, obtain PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) acknowledgment, and preserve, evaluate, and promote this prestigious and 'antique' product.

RECIPE: MODICAN CHOCOLATE COOKIES

Ingredients: 250 g of orange Modican chocolate (or other flavor of choice) 210 g of 00 flour 110 g of sugar, 55 g of butter, 2 eggs, 1/2 tsp of baking powder, pinch of salt, confectioners sugar. Melt chocolate in a double boiler then add butter. Sift flour, add a pinch of saltnand baking powder and mix together. In the bowl of an electric mixer beat eggs and sugar for at least fifteen minutes. Very delicately combine the chocolate and egg mixtures, stirring from the bottom up. Slowly add the flour mixture. Put the batter in the refrigerator and let sit for an hour.

When the time is up separate the batter into balls the size of walnuts and roll in confectioners sugar. Lay the sugared balls on a cookie sheet with ample distance between each and bake at 170° C for 10 minutes, making sure they do not dry out. When finished baking, allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack and dust with confectioners sugar.

The perfect Bolognese sauce

2012-11-21T00:56:00.005-08:00

Bolognese ragout may be the most famous Italian sauce in the world, along with pesto. Outside Italy it’s usually thought of as a spaghetti sauce, but this goes against tradition. It is usually used with special pastas like tagliatelle and lasagne. Its origins are very ancient, going back to the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, and linked to the great mixture of cultures (and cuisines) in Bologna over the centuries, thanks to its University, the oldest in the world. The recipe agreed upon as authentic was registered by the Italian Academy of Cuisine in 1982, following 38 years of research and debate. Minced meat used in this tasty recipe is a special cut of beef, called cartella (skirt), the muscle that separates the lungs and stomach of the animal. Unlike what you may think, ragout (or Bolognese sauce) contains very little tomato, in a concentrated form; the basic vegetables are onions, carrots and celery, chopped up together and “soffritti”, lightly fried in oil. The use of “soffritto” is common in Italian cuisine, from north to south, differing only in the type of fat used. In the north, it’s butter, in the south, olive oil. In Bolognese ragout, both are used, with excellent results.

Minced Beef

Beef is the only kind of meat to use for a perfect Bolognaise sauce. The official recipe calls for a special cut, the cartella, or skirt. This is the muscle that separates the lungs from the stomach, juicy, tender and lean. Normally, a fattier and less prized cut is used: the faux cartella, or belly. This meat must be cooked slowly, but it gives the sauce an unmistakeable flavour, thanks to its high fat content. Nowadays, the meat is minced. This cuts down on cooking time, which is long in any case. Traditionally, it was cut into chunks and cooked slowly to soften the meat fibres to the desired consistency.

The perfect bolognese recipe

Serves four people

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
6 rashers of streaky 'pancetta' bacon, chopped
2 large onions, chopped
3 garlic cloves, crushed
2 carrots, chopped
Stick of celery
2 Pounds lean minced beef
2 large glasses of red wine
2 cans chopped tomatoes
2 fresh or dried bay leaves
salt and freshly ground black pepper
30 Oz dried tagliatelle
freshly grated parmesan cheese, to serve

1. Heat the oil in a large, heavy-based saucepan and fry the bacon until golden over a medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, frying until softened. Increase the heat and add the minced beef. Fry it until it has browned. Pour in the wine and boil until it has reduced in volume by about a third. Reduce the temperature and stir in the tomatoes and celery.

2. Cover with a lid and simmer over a gentle heat for 1-1½ hours until it's rich and thickened, stirring occasionally.

3. Cook the tagliatelle in plenty of boiling salted water. Drain and divide between plates. Sprinkle a little parmesan over the pasta before adding a good ladleful of the sauce. Finish with a further scattering of cheese and a twist of black pepper.

Rome attractions and November Events.

2012-11-05T01:56:00.000-08:00

These mid-seasons are a leap into the unknown as far as weather is concerned – you could find glorious sunshine or a days of driving rain – but at least you’ll find the crowds less daunting. Here’s what to Do and See with 3 Days in Rome.

Day 1: The Glories of Ancient Rome, Trevi Fountain, and Dinner near the Pantheon

Palatine Hill and Colosseum The Roman Colosseum, Ancient Rome's huge amphitheater, was built in between 70 and 82 AD in the heart of Rome as a venue for gladiatorial and wild animal fights. Today it's one of the best and most popular monuments of Ancient Rome. See Buying Colosseum Tickets for ways to avoid the long ticket line and Rome Passes and Cards for discounts on admissions.

Nearby you can visit the excavations and museum on the Palatine Hill, home to Roman emperors and aristocrats.

Tip: On Sunday, the Via dei Fori Imperiali leading to the Colosseum is closed to traffic, making a nice place to walk.

The Roman Forum
The Roman Forum, a huge complex of ruined temples, basilicas, and arches, was the ceremonial, legal, social, and business center of ancient Rome. Give yourself at least two hours to wander around.

Trevi Fountain and Gelato Break
Now you'll try what many consider the best gelato in Rome at San Crispino on Via Panetteria near the Trevi Fountain. Then see the magnificent Trevi fountain, completed in 1762. Toss a coin in the fountain to ensure your return to Rome.

Pantheon and Dinner The Pantheon, the best preserved building of ancient Rome, has a spectacular dome and free admission, closes 7PM. For dinner try Armando al Pantheon, in a street to the right of the Pantheon as you're facing it. (Salita de' Crescenzi, 31). After dinner, splurge on a drink outside in the Pantheon's lively Piazza di Rotonda.

Tip: Bars and cafes charge more to sit outside but it's worth it if you stay awhile and enjoy the ambiance.

Day 2: Capotiline Hill Museums, Rome Neighborhoods, Traditional Cuisine

Today you visit a few of Rome's neighborhoods and museums and sample traditional Roman cuisines.

Campo dei Fiori, Trastevere, and Jewish Ghetto
Campo dei Fiori is alive in the mornings with a market and flower vendors so it makes an interesting start to your day. From there wander along the Tiber River to Ponte Sisto, cross the Tiber to the Trastevere neighborhood and visit the church of Santa Maria in Trestevere, Rome's first Christian church. Cross back to the other side and continue to the Jewish Ghetto. There are several places to sample Rome's interesting Jewish cuisine in the Ghetto.

Tip: If you're up early and want good photos of Piazza Navona, start the itinerary there, before the tourists arrive. Then continue to Campo dei Fiori.

Capitoline Hill Museums
From the busy Piazza Venezia, a transport hub and home to the Vittorio Emanuele Monument, go up to the Capotoline Hill, where you will have a fabulous view of the Roman Forum. The piazza was designed by Michelangelo and the museums are the oldest in the world. Palazzo Nuovo has Greek and Roman sculptures and Palazzo dei Conservatori has art galleries, sculptures, and frescoes. A ticket is good for both.

Testaccio District
Tonight go to the Testaccio District by taxi, bus 75 or the metro. You'll want to make a reservation for dinner at Checchino dal 1887, a very nice restaurant serving old Roman cuisine. The Testaccio District has several good night clubs if you want to go out after dinner.

Tip: Be alert for pickpockets on the Metro and in crowds.

Day 3: Rome's Catacombs, the Ancient Appian Way, Piazza Navona and Tartufo

Today we visit the Ancient Appian Way, catacombs, and Piazza Navona with optional shopping.

Via Appia Antica and Catacombs The Via Appia Antica, the major road of the ancient Roman Empire, is now a regional park, Parco Regionale Dell'Appia Antica. Take bus 118 or 218 to visit the catacombs of San Callisto, the largest and most impressive of the catacombs. Then walk or rent a bike and ride along the ancient road, lined with tombs, monuments, and churches. A beautiful place for lunch is the Cecilia Metella Restaurant, especially when it is nice and you can sit on the patio.

Tip: You can bye bus tickets at a newsstand or tabacchi: Validate them in the little machine when you board the bus. If you say catacombs, someone will tell you when to get off.

Spanish Steps and Shopping
If you have time in the afternoon, go to Piazza del Popolo and walk along Via del Corso, the main shopping street. Turn onto Via Condotti and follow it to the Spanish Steps. Window-shopping and people-watching is good in this area and won't hurt your budget. Read more about Shopping in Rome

It's fun to try a restaurant you've discovered on your own and after three days of walking around Rome, you've probably found something you'd like to try.

Piazza Navona and Tartufo
In the evening, Piazza Navona is a great place to continue your people-watching as well as see the three lavish Baroque fountains. The much-touted ice-cream dessert, tartufo, is said to have originated here - you can try it outside at the Tre Scalini for a splurge.

EVENTS

Vermeer, the Golden Century of Dutch Art

September 27 - January 20

The Scuderie del Quirinale is the venue for Italy’s first ever major show – entitled The Golden Century of Dutch Art – of works by 17th-century genius Johannes Vermeer. The Scuderie will follow up from February with an exhibition of masterpieces by Titian. Given the popularity of this venue’s excellent exhibitions, it’s best to book tickets (€12, €9.50 reductions) and time slot on-line, otherwise you face a long queue to enter.

Romaeuropa Festival
September 26 - November 25

The autumn sees the return of the Romaeuropa Festival (romaeuropa.net/en/) with its exceptional, world-class programme of contemporary dance, music and theatre performed in venues around the city. This year’s festival includes a tribute to US composer Philip Glass for his 75th birthday. Ticket prices vary greatly depending on venue and event; they can all be booked on line. For dedicated festival-followers there’s a five-show pass at €80.

Along the Silk Road
October 27 - March 24

A fascinating collection of textiles, artefacts and art works goes on display at the Palazzo delle Esposizioni (palazzoesposizioni.it) in October, charting a journey along the ancient Silk Road, which for centuries carried merchants from the Mediterranean to China. Tickets (€12.50, €10 reductions, include all the shows on inside this huge exhibition space) can be booked on line or purchased at the door.

Paul Klee and Italy
October 9 - January 27

Swiss-German artist Paul Klee made many visits to Italy. This show at the Galleria Nazionale di Arte Moderna (gnam.beniculturali.it) displays works made during, and inspired by, his journeys. Tickets (€10, €7.50 reductions) can be purchased at the door.

Days of Rome. The Age of Balance
October 4 - April 28

The Capitoline museums (museicapitolini.org) play host to a stunning exhibition of artworks from the golden age when ancient Rome enjoyed prosperity and remarkable peace under the emperors Trajan and Hadrian (AD 98-138). Buy tickets (€12, €10 reductions) on the door, or book on-line through www.omniticket.it in order to go straight to the head of possible queues.

Rome Jazz Festival - most of November. Concerts are held in the Auditorium Parco della Musica. Rome Jazz Fest web site

Early to Mid November - International Rome Film Festival. A young festival as far as international film festivals go, the International Rome Film Festival takes place at the Auditorium Parco della Musica. Past guests of the festival have included big name Hollywood players, such as Wes Anderson, Jonathan Demme, and Martin Scorcese, as well as many other Italian and foreign directors and actors.

November 22 - Feast of Saint Cecilia (Santa Cecilia). The saint's feast day is celebrated at Santa Cecilia in Trastevere as well as at the Catacombs of San Callisto.

Hidden Jems: The best part of Italy

2012-10-31T13:00:00.000-07:00

For every region of Italy that’s well known to travellers from all around the world, there is another quieter and less-explored option. There exist parts of Italy that are more firmly lodged in the world consciousness than many corners of our own country it’s not for nothing that one of the most enduringly popular areas of Tuscany has become known as “Chiantishire”. Such places draw their visitor numbers for a good reason; but there remain countless parts of Italy that are less familiar but equally rewarding. Here’s our pick of them.

If you like Tuscany… try Le Marche

Umbria is the obvious alternative to Tuscany but its hills and wines are fast becoming as well known as its neighbours’. So if you’re looking for somewhere new to visit but with the charm and scenery of Tuscany, try Le Marche - a mainly agricultural region on the Adriatic coast with just an hour between the beach and the Sibillini mountains. The Sibillini national park is ideal for walking, gentle cycling, mountain biking or horse riding. E lsewhere the region is dotted with caves including the famous Grotte di Frasassi which includes a cavern so large that it would fit Milan Cathedral inside it. The wines are little known outside Italy but are a joy to discover, while the food, like the region, is a mix of sea and land with regional dishes of both fish and game.

If you like Umbria… try Piedmont

If Le Marche doesn’t do it for you then Piedmont will. For epicures looking for the finest that Italy has to offer, this region abutting the French and Swiss borders is the place to go, as the towns that lend their names to food and drink show - Asti, Cinzano, Barolo. Most of Italy’s rice is grown here and risotto is a signature dish. In fact, this is where the Slow Food Movement, dedicated to real cooking with traditional ingredients, began.The medieval town of Alba is famous for its white truffles, and those wishing to give themselves a hearty appetite can take cycling or walking excursions in the Langhe Hills first. When you can eat no more, there’s skiing in north of the region or the baroque city of Turin to explore.

If you like Campania… try Lazio

History buffs often head to Campania wanting to visit Pompeii, Herculaneum and the treasures of Naples’ museums. But fascinating ruins in the midst of great scenery can also be found via a day trip from another booming metropolis, in the region of Lazio outside Rome. What’s more, the whole region is accessible by public transport. The most interesting ruins can be found in the north of Lazio, which was developed around 800BC by the Estrucans. Other important sites are Ostia Antica, the ruined port of imperial Rome and the ruins of Villa Adriana, Hadrian’s Palace, near Tivoli. There are beaches but, if you’re looking for somewhere to wash the dust off, Bracciano and Bolsena are volcanic lakes popular with Italians.

If you like the Amalfi coast … try Taormina

The mountainous Amalfi Coast is a popular tourist destination with its dramatic cliffs dropping into the blue Mediterranean; but if you’re looking for quieter mountains, perhaps Sicily is the answer. On the hill of Monte Tauro, overlooking two sweeping bays and the top of Mount Etna, Taormina gives visitors breathtaking views of all the little seaside towns. It has been praised by writers and artists of many generations: Goethe, D H L awrence, A lexander Dumas, John Steinbeck, Paul K lee and Gustav K limt. There’s excellent shopping both for the big brands and smaller curios, and a range of local wines and foods to try. In the daytime, visitors can explore the medieval streets and alleyways leading to hidden gardens or terraces overlooking the coast. At night the streets are perfect for an evening stroll, and very occasionally you might spot steam and light as E tna bubbles over and lava flows down her steep slopes. The nearest airport to Taormina is at the bustling port city of Catania, about 45km away.

Molise, a treasure in the heart of Italy

2012-10-27T08:26:00.000-07:00

The Molise Region is situated in a mountainous area of Central Italy between the Apennines and the Adriatic Sea. Thanks to its wild landscape it is considered one of the most important green areas in Europe. With a surface area of less than 4,500 square kilometres, it is one of the smallest Regions in Italy. It’s economy is based on an agri-alimentary sector that has managed to preserve its traditions even during a recent phase of industrial development thanks, above all, to the quality of the grain, milk, oil and wine it produces.

History

Archaeological remains speak of ancient times: prehistoric and proto-historic villages, the rise of the Samnites, who settled here around the 7th century BC, the wars against the Romans, the fortified castles of the Middle Ages, the Barbarian invasions that changed the culture and landscape of the ancient Roman Samnius. With the Norman conquest Samnius became Molise. The Region's name derives from the de Moulins family: Rodulfus de Moulins snatched Boiano and Venafro from the Lombards and became lord of a territory with ancient Samnius and new Molise at its heart. The Samnites arrived in this part of the peninsula on the wave of the vast migratory flow caused by the decline of the Etruscans' power, and established their religious centre, the symbol of tribal unity, on the heights of Pietrabbondante. They defended themselves against the Romans during the Samnitic Wars (243-290 BC) along the Apennines, at the end of which they fell under Roman dominion. Periods of war and peace alternated over the centuries leaving deep marks that survive in the architecture from the Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Rococo periods.

Mountains

The Matese is one of the most ancient European mountains, preserved in time as 70 millions of years ago, and there is a spring of water which is collected today and sold as "Sepinia" in the area called presently "Tre Fontane". Not very far from the spring, the most intact dinosaur in Italy was found. The prehistoric site called Terravecchia was the refuge of the first shepherds, who during the Bronze Age climbed to drink from the springs in the Matese. Matese is one of the most important groups the Apennines, the Region's highest mountain being Monte Miletto (2050m) not to be missed are the climb up this mountain. To the west a rocky barrier rises up brusquely with vertical walls: Le Mainarde, scattered with villages, beech woods and forests of silver fir, such as the Montedimezzo and Collemeluccio forests, which have been declared Biosphere Reserves by UNESCO. In some municipalities, and also in the Abruzzo National Park, it is possible to catch sight of wildlife in its natural habitat. For example, in Pizzone, you can see the brown bear, and there is no lack of charming settings such as the upland plain of Valle Fiorita and the basin of Montenero Val Cocchiera, where wild horses graze.

Historical Itineraries

A place not to be missed is Sepino, the archaeological area which takes you to the village of Altilia. The site of Saepinum is at the crossroad of two important, ancient trails: the north-south trail along the Tammaro Valley used long before the presence of the Romans as the path for seasonal migration of shepherds and livestock into Apulia and Campania, and the east-west path leading through the mountains to the Adriatic Sea. Since prehistory there was a settlement in this fertile plain created by the Tammaro River where the local population traded with migrating shepherds. In the Iron Age a citadel of Samnites supervised over this trading activity: the citadel, surrounded by mighty walls, was called Saepins, and ruins can still be seen on the top of a hill called Terravecchia (953 mt above sea level).

During the second Samnite War in 293 b.C. Saepins, "fortissima atcque potentissima" was conquered by consul Lucius Papirius Cursor. The heroic Samnites went out of the town to fight the Romans, and 7300 of them died, while 3000 were taken prisoners (as reported by historian Livius). The few who survived abandoned the citadel and settled in the plain, where later the new Roman town of Saepinum was to rise.

The Roman town flourished during the imperial period. Recent excavations still in progress have brought to light the remains of private buildings, a fairly large theatre, a basilica, the forum, the "Griffon Fountain", two mausoleums, baths, and long stretches of boundary walls with four gates.

In the 1st century AD Saepinum was one of the 35 Roman municipia in Italy, and economic development started under Augustus who granted of parcels of land throughout Italy to veterans returning from foreign wars, and also Saepinum saw new landowners just outside the city-walls.

In the 5th century it also became a bishopry, then after the Lombard invasions took the name of Altilia. In the 9th century was raided by the Saracens, and at that time the inhabitants moved to a higher position, where the present Sepino is still situated.

Another pleasant visit is to Isernia Trivento, the ancient Samnitic fortress, and then on to Termoli, the most important seaside resort on the Molise coast where boats leave for the Tremiti Islands.
Another itinerary takes in Venafro, and on to the Benedictine monastery of S. Vincenzo al Volturno. It then skirts the artifical lake of Castel S. Vincenzo and up to one of the loftiest municipalities in Italy, Capracotta (1,416m), between Monte Campo and Monte Capraro.
Finally, you can come upon the traces left by Homo Aeserniensis and his prehistoric camp dating back around 700,000 years - the most ancient settlement in Europe.

Altilia: The site

Along the fast lane connecting Isernia to Campobasso, after passing Isernia there is an exit named "Sepino", that will lead to a town rich of thousands of years of history. Before reaching the present-day town, there is a turning to the right (north-west direction) to "Altilia" which must be followed for about 2 miles. Altilia is a village rising amid the ruins of Saepinum, one of the most extraordinary archeological sites of central Italy, a Roman town where excavations began in the early 1950's. Sepino rises at the foot of the Matese Massif, there the Samnite citadel of Saepins was built. As the water became the most important element of Saepinum/Altilia, the town was filled of hydraulic plumbings, aqueducts and mills, and magnificent spas. The town developed when rich Roman imperial families came to enjoy the healthy water.

The architecture of Roman Saepinum

The Roman Saepinum was diamond-shaped, with each side of 320 mt, and divided into four quarters by two main roads, the Cardum Maximum and the Decumanum, that intersected in the center of the town, where the forum, basilica and market were situated. The Cardum Decumanum was the ancient shepherds tracks still existing at the time of the Samnite Saepins. The area is 12 square hectares, circled by a wall of about 1200 meters, which originally included 27 towers. Entrance was through four gates - three of them are still standing - each sided by two towers.

Inside the wall at the north gate are remnants of thermal baths. Along both axes of the town, remnants of stone walls have been restored to show where the original residences and shops stood. The 'industrial' section of town consisted of structures where wool and hides were prepared. Also, there is a theater that could accomodate 3,000 spectators. Next to the theater, 17th century farmhouses have been restored and serve as a museum. Outside the walls are the ruins of two large funeral monuments. The tomb on the north side is square and bears clear Greek ornamentation. The tomb at the south gate is round and typical of the age of Augustus. One of the two towers guarding the South Gate actually served as a cistern, gravity-feeding water to the entire town, which is on a slight downward slope to the north. Latin inscriptions on the gates and buildings abound, telling which wealthy family donated this and that structure.

The Forum of Saepinum stands where the town's two main roads met, that is the Decumanus and the Cardum Maximum, both built in pre-Roman times. The forum was the major public area in every Roman town, and it was here that trade and commerce were conducted alongside political and administrative business as well. Saepinum's forum was a huge irregular rectangular space covering an are of 1400 square meters, for centuries it remained covered in earth and was floored with rectangular slabs of stone only in the Augustan age, when a gutter was built in as well to allow rainwater to drain away from the forum. As in other Roman towns, the Forum of Saepinum was surrounded by inportant public buildings, rather than private houses: the South-east side of the forum has only been partly excavated, while on the opposite site have been found several chambers, probably used as meeting places for priests or as the seat of the town's Senate. Near the forum there is a temple possibly dedicated to the Capitoline trio of Jupiter, Juno and Minerva and on the far side the so called baths of Silvanus. On one of the short sides stand another place of worship and a public fountain, along with other less important buildings.

The north-west side of the forum is closed in by the Basilica, one of whose sides faces onto the forum area. The Basilica measures aboiut 30 per 20 meters and dates back to the mid-4th century AD. It served as an administrative office and Hall of justice. The peristilium stands above a low podium: there are 8 ionic columns on each long side and 4 columns on each of the short sides, delimiting the confines of the basilica area itself. The columns and their ionic capitals were originally more than 6 mt tall. The facade overlooking the forum had three entrances as did the other facade looking onto the decumanum, The 20 elegant columns are supported by numerous fragments of remains from buildings of earlier eras.

Pietrabbondante

Pietrabbondante's earliest known inhabitants were the Samnites, who arrived in Pietrabbondante in the 6th century BC. Many historians believe that it was home of the Assemblies of the Federal Government of the Samnites. The Samnite town stretched for just over six hundred meters; nevertheless, the area remains rich in archaeological material.

The theater-temple complex is located on the outskirts of Pietrabbondante about 966 meters above sea level, next to another small temple with arcaded shops from a previous era (200 BC). To build it, the Samnites got two terraces along the side of the mountain, but at different levels on a single axis. The top two buildings housed the temple and side porches. The overall size of the area is 55 x 90 meters. The theater consists of two elements: the auditorium and the building stage, which two stone arches link together. The auditorium could contain 2500 spectators and has good acoustics. The seats were made of stone. Each stone seat is from a single stone block and the dorsal elegantly thrown backwards; at both ends of each row listed a sign that reserved three rows for judges, priests, and so on. On both sides of the orchestra, retaining walls of the embankment end with atlases carved in stone (like the Odeon of Pompeii, however, the material is made of soft tuff). The entire embankment is supported by a large semicircular and polygonal blocks processed by cutting without regular contours.

Gastronomy

Molise is the primary producer of white truffles in Europe and its flourishing cheese industry provides dairy products sold in all the large Italian cities. Its various "Soppressate" are the pride of local tradition, followed by naturally cured pork salami. Among the many popular festivals, recalling Molise's traditions for centuries, are the "ndocciata" torch-lit processions in Agnone, the cart races in S. Martino in Pensilis and Ururi and the Mysteries of Campobasso. Scapoli is the only village where the "zampogna", the classical shepherd's instrument, is still produced. The Region has an ancient tradition of silver and goldsmithing especially in Campobasso and Agnone. Famous also are the steelworks of Campobasso and Frosolone.

on, where the present Sepino is still situated.

Autumn in Tuscany: Val d’Orcia landscape

2012-10-24T04:00:00.000-07:00

“…the pause in this crossing that I hold dearest, the stop that my spirit desires with fits of impatience and greediness - is that in the high Orcia valley, beyond San Quirico, in the lands reaching to Montepulciano and Pienza. Its vision appears as the seabed of the memory or a land of dreams where some mysterious exalted sense perceives the chill of an unexplainable wind. Up there, in fact, the wind turns into the planet's enigmatic breathing. The morning breeze blows out toward the sea and returns warmer in the evening toward land. In that oasis which welcomes my exodus I sense the idleness of old men, I listen to the dull, mounting din of birds breaking into song, to silence, to the cry of joy that greets the day, to the sounds of life in the valley that are deflected, with the clinking of artisans meeting the moans of plows furrowing the land. Then there is that silence which is "not silent", being the language of nature and the universe…”

Mario Luzi

From “Terre di vento e di deserto”

“A land of wind and desert”

In the heart of the Sienese countryside dwells an essential, yet perfect landscape. It Is made up of hills, ravines, a winding riverbed and cypress trees that crown hilltops in perfect isolation or run along country roads with geometrical precision. Oak woods, olive groves and vineyards where Brunnello di Montalcino and other great Tuscan wines are born watch over enchanting hillsides, villages and historical monuments. To the west the view takes in Monte Amiata, Italy's highest extinct volcano. But it is the hills that impress you first. Val d'Orcia is now protected as an artistic, natural and cultural park. Trails, guides, brochures and museums all offer different means for exploring its treasures, although this most beautiful of Tuscany's valleys is first and foremost an emotion in itself. You’ll feel it in Radicofani if arriving from Viterbo or Rome, while crossing the Foce pass if arriving from Chianciano or Chiusi or at the Rocca a Tentennano after passing through Monte Amiata's dark forests. Wide-open, rolling and welcoming, Val d’ Orcia unfurls for travellers like one great, embracing smile.

If arriving from Siena or Florence to the north, the transition from the Crete area to Val d'Orcia is more sublte. The landscape remains arid as the hills rise and predominate and the wide Ombrone riverbed makes way for a narrower, winding valley. Clay outcroppings and ravines become fewer and farther between. The hamlets crowning the hilltops suddenly become splendid villages steeped with history and monuments. This is the most forbidding approach, described by poet Mario Luzi and by numerous other travellers. This is the route to Val d'Orcia taken in the past by pilgrims, Popes, mercenaries and merchants. Of these we may mention Charlemagne, the 11thcentury Archbishop Sigeric and members of the Medici family on their way to the curative waters at Bagno Vignoni.

Val d'Orcia leaves its mark on all those who pass this way. Those born here are fiercely bound to their land, and can scarcely live anywhere else. Even today, travellers who spend just a few hours passing through are instantly struck and seduced. They suddenly realise they must come back. The director Anthony Minghella was similarly struck and set his masterpiece film The English Patient, a saga about travelling, love, life and pain in Pienza and the monastery at Sant’ Anna in Camprena. More than anything else, Val d’ 0rcia means nature. The river this valley is named after is little more than a stream for most of the year. in the summer heat it practically dries up, but the autumn rains transform it into a raging river that seems to consume all it encounters. It springs forth in the hills between Radicofani and Sarteano, descends into a wide cultivated valley and then heads west toward Pienza, San Quirico, Montalcino and Castiglione. It skirts Monte Amiata and delves into a deep canyon, then passes through the hills of Maremma and finally feeds into the Ombrone river. The Orcia river is not the valley's only source of water. In Bagno Vignoni and Bagni San Filippo, thermal waters heated in the heart of the volcano bubble to the surface and form mineral outcroppings of rare beauty while offering well-being and pleasure to those who arrive from near and afar, as they have done for centuries.

Paestum the most beautiful city in Magna Grecia!

2012-10-12T03:06:00.000-07:00

“….We still feel (in a Greek temple like the one at Paestum, for example) almost as if a god, playing one morning, had built his residence out of these enormous masses; at other times as if a soul had all of a sudden magically entered into a stone and now wished to use it to speak.”

Friedrich Nietzsche

Paestum is in the Italian region of Campania and a sub-region called the Cilento located just south of the Amalfi coast. Here the majestic Doric temples, illuminated by sunlight and the long coastal strip, brushed by a sparkling sea, are the elements which make this place a charming place in which you can spend your holidays. The old city is located in a strategic position, a few km South of the Amalfi Coast and on the north of the Cilento Coast, it is the door to the National Park of Cilento. Considered by the U.N.E.S.C.O. as a world heritage, Paestum remains, for its art, nature, tastes and events which characterize it, one of the most important beautiful cities of Magna Grecia, which must be visited and discovered.

History and Archeology

Greece started to expand in the 8th century B.C. into southern Italy and Sicily, where they founded colonies among the small, agrarian settlements that were not organized well enough to be able to defend themselves from the arrival of Greeks in this case Achaeans coming from Sybaris. Around 600 B.C. the Greeks settled in "Poseidonia," named in honor of the god of the Sea.

After the Romans conquered the south they founded a Latin colony called Paestum here. The Paestum Plain is outlined by the river Sele to the north, by the Calpazio, Soltano and Soprano Mountains to the east, by the hills of Agropoli to the south and to the west it extends in to the sea. But, as in many of the coastal areas, population declined seriously in the Late Empire some fleeing to the hills to avoid malaria, others falling in Saracen raids. Paestum was lost to the world by the 12th century, discovered by road crews in 1752 and "re-discovered" in the 18th centuries when poets like Goethe, Shelley, Canova, and Piranesi visited and wrote about the ruins while on the "Grand Tour." Paestum has three of the best preserved doric temples in Italy: the Basilica of Hera, the Temple of Ceres, and, on the southern end of the site, the Temple of Neptune, built in 450 BC, the oldest and best preserved of the Greek temples in Italy.

The National Archeological Museum of Paestum is one of the best museums in Italy. It consists of various sections which allow the visitor to retrace the Geek, Lucan and Roman history of the city. It was built in 1952, using a project planned by the architect M.De Vita, and it is situated inside the walls of the town. The first section was built in order to hold the archaic Metopes which were found at the Sele. Another room, designed by the architect E. De Felice, was added to the first one. The latest set up of the Museum dates back to 1999, when a Roman Room and a Didactic room were added.Entering the Museum the visitor will find the Archaic Metopes, which are the most important and interesting findings of the ancient world; bronze vases, which were found inside the "sacello ipogeico" , the famous Diver's Tomb and the painted slabs of the tombs, which belong to the Lucan Age.Moreover, in the Roman Room, sculptures and many silver coins are also visible.The National Museum of Paestum possesses photographic, printmaking and restoration laboratories and a big archive.

The coast and The National Park of Cilento

On the Paestum shores , very thin sand is lined by a little stream. It sketches out a scenery which is characterized by a white beach which extends for about 14 km. At night it is possible to experience a unique sunset on an iridescent horizon. In the background you can see the uncontaminated beauty of the maquis near a dense pinewood. It is a place full of colours, fragrances , lights and shadows where a sensitive soul could experience moments of intense emotion.

The National Park of Cilento is one of the biggest in Italy. It is the final result of the combination between man's work and nature. Cilento is an interesting place to visit because of its fusion between sea and mountains and because it possesses natural and cultural resources. That's why the National Park of Cilento meets the requirements demanded by Unesco. It is an outstanding example of the ecological and biological process of the Mediterranean ecosystem and in the Park you can find numerous plants and animals (marine and terrestial). The Park comprises a lot of buildings which represent the Greeks' colonization period , all the buildings remain undamaged. The National Park of Cilento keeps wonderful traces of the past cultural origins.

Paestum's flavours

A place where it is possible to discover genuine flavours and, high quality products which hedge in the producers' experience and wisdom. Anthropologist, doctors and nutritionists think that the genuine and good quality food is a very helpful medicine to prevent malfunction, illness, etc., but it is also a means of enjoying good food, above all the food which can be found in this wonderful area - the Mediterranean diet – the Mediterranean diet has its origins in Greek eating habits. Indeed this wonderful diet, although it has been slightly changed through the ages thanks to better economic and hygienic conditions, has always been used and integrated with resources and typical products which are cultivated on a fertile and rich soil: the Paestum and Cilento soil. Actually, this diet was studied by the American nutritionist Keys, when he was in the army and he came to Paestum in 1944. His study allowed the Mediterranean diet to be included worldwide in books which speak about a good diet, thanks to the excellent nutritional values, such as cereals, legumes, vegetables, fruit, milk and olive oil, present in the Mediterranean diet, which protect the body from chronically illness.

Liguria, land of quality

2012-10-11T05:14:00.003-07:00

Liguria: a long, narrow strip of land between an arch of mountains and a deep sea. Such a beautiful region, yet rough and wild; this land preserves natural beauties and traditions to be discovered; it has a wealthy agricultural and culinary heritage, with numerous products and typical dishes, of which 300 specialties are included in the national list of traditional food products. The Ligurian land does not lavish quantity but is generous with the quality of its products; their excellence can be noticed in the flower growing, horticulture, vine and especially olive tree growing. Products which grow on a land that has no land; the difficult territorial morphology, which gives the landscape a unique and fascinating look, almost completely devoid of plains, apart from Albenga and Sarzana at the opposite ends; this has made it necessary to create areas to becultivated: the terraces that run for miles and miles along the whole region. In the Cinque Terre alone, thanks to the use of 8 million cubic meters of stone, 6,720 km of dry stone walls have been realized, equal to 2,000 hectares of farmland.

Ligurian wine growing has a modest weight within the Italian context, from a quantity point of view; however, it represents a significant reality in terms of quality: it boasts eight C.D.O.s (Ormeasco, Cinque Terre, Colli di Luni, Colline di Levanto, Golfo del Tigullio, Val Polcevera , Riviera Ligure di Ponente, Rossese Dolceacqua) and four T.G.I.s (Golfo dei Poeti La Spezia, Colline del Genovesato, Colline Savonesi, Terrazze dell’Imperiese). The Ligurian winegrowing industry is constantly increasing, also thanks to the food and wine tourism, which offers white wines such as the Pigato and the Vermentino, red wines such as the Rossese, the Ormeasco and the Ciliegiolo and straw wines like the renowned Sciacchetrà; this wine, sweet but not too sweet, also called “reinforced”, is obtained by leaving the grapes to dry up until late November.

Basil is the aromatic herb chosen as the gastronomic symbol of the region, the special and unique ingredient of local cuisine; in Liguria it takes an unmistakably intense and full aroma. grown on terraces overlooking the sea, it is a product that should be appreciated, preferably “in situ”. The regional production is grown in the greenhouse during the winter and in the open fi eld during spring and summer time, but the taste does not change. its special qualities are determined by the brightness of the coast, the characteristics of the soil and salty air. The most important production areas are Prà, voltri and coronata for the genoese area, diano Marina, andora and albenga to the west and the Magra valley to the east.

Stages of the Genoese Pesto sauce preparation

The typical and most famous regional cold sauce is pesto, whose main ingredient is basil. The name “pesto” sums up the processing technique. The pounding in a marble mortar, which is necessary for enhancing all flavours. There are two secrets: use young leaves of plants that are no more than two months old and crush the leaves and garlic by pounding them in a mortar, instead of using a food blender. The difference is noticeable on the palate. You then just add to the basil and garlic, the extra virgin olive oil “Riviera Ligure” , pine nuts, salt and cheese (preferably Parmesan or pecorino cheese).

1 Put the garlic in the mortar

2 Add the pine nuts

3 Add P.D.O. Genoese basil, a pinch of salt and grind in the mortar

4 Add the grated cheese

5 Add the extra virgin Olive oil

6 Mix the ingredients and grind and the sauce is ready !

Genova

A city of art and a metropolis facing the sea, Genoa grew around the port, a natural inlet that has always been a place of thriving traffic and business exchanges. Its antique heart, the largest medieval historical centre in Europe, is crossed by a tight network of lanes, where the multicultural soul that has always characterised the city history gathers. A visit to the Palazzi dei Rolli, on the Unesco World Heritage List, cannot be missed: sumptuous dwellings that bring back a little of the atmosphere that existed in Genoa between the 16th and 17th Centuries.

Modern life is just a few steps away, in the places that were restored and renovated - the Expo with the Aquarium, via San Lorenzo, Palazzo Ducale, and the splendid via Garibaldi that is full of museums. The fascination of the city can also be found from Nervi to Voltri, independent municipalities from the Twenties, where you can find villas surrounded by Nineteenth century parks, suggestive sea walks, small and large museums.

The small villages and large centres that face the Golfo Paradiso, with a sea front that is recognised throughout the world because of its extraordinary beauty, are intense and multiform blotches of colour clinging to the rocks. The narrow, high and very colourful fishermen’s houses make the coastline unique. Along this stretch of coast small beaches alternate with rocks covered by trees and maquis shrubland. A great marine tradition is continued in the areas facing the coastline, above all in Camogli: its characteristic port contains numerous Gozzi (small fishing boats) with their nets spread out under the sun, and you will find the Marine museum in its centre.

The valleys around the great Genoa, which from the sea reach the Apennines along the rivers Scrivia, Bisagno, Polcevera, Stura and Leira, are dotted with villas and noble dwellings built during the past centuries by the most influential noble and bourgeois families of the city, who loved to pass their holidays here. Even today the peacefulness of the small centres, the mild climate of the high ground and the beauty of the countryside draw a large number of holidaymakers: there are many places that are perfect for long walks, horse riding or bike rides and food and wine routes.

The small villages are full of history that can be seen in the age-old abbeys (Tiglieto abbey is famous) and turreted castles that display the estates of Doria, Fieschi, Malaspina and Spinola, for example Casella and Campo Ligure, famous also for filigree work. Castello della Pietra in Vobbia is a different story, because of the aura of mystery that surrounds it: it is an exceptionally important example of cohesion between the work of man and the natural environment, constructive economy and military techniques.

Oil and Wine Route Chianti Classico

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The Chianti Classico district lies between Florence and Siena, the two cities that fought over it for centuries. It includes all the municipalities of Greve, Radda, Castellina and Gaiole in Chianti and portions of the municipalities of Castelnuovo Berardenga, Barberino Val d'Elsa, San Casciano Val di Pesa, Poggibonsi and Tavarnelle. It is hilly country, rich in woodlands and dotted with little towns, castles, ancient churches and farmhouses with their vineyards, olive orchards and un paved roads that preserve the rural landscape intact.

The "Strada del Vino e dell'Olio Chianti Classico" runs largely along the Chiantigiana road that crosses the entire district and passes first through Greve in Chianti, with its charming "market square" then on to Panzano, with the Church of S. Leolino then to Castellina, Fonterutoli and finally reaches Siena. Much of the route of this road is crisscrossed by the network of smaller roads that connect the larger towns to the villages and castles, like the one that goes to Radda in Chianti, once the capital of the Chianti League, and then to Brolio Castle, where Bettino Ricasoli dictated the "recipe" for Chianti wine. Along the road it is possible to take guided tours of the wine cellars and taste wines, oil and pork products; the restaurants and inns along the way offer all the specialties of Chianti cuisine.

The number one typical product is, of course, the wine: Chianti Classico DOCC obtained, according to the "Disciplinare" or rules, from pure San Giovese grapes or San Giovese blended with other red grapes (Canaiolo, Colorino) and it is the only wine allowed to mark its labels with the "Black Roosted symbol since 1924. Extra Virgin Olive Oil DOP Chianti Classico is obtained by cold pressing olive produced by trees of the Frantoio, Correggiolo, Moraiolo and Leccino varieties. Vinsanto del Chianti Classico DOC is produced with white Malvasia and Trebbiano grapes that have been partially dried before pressing. The Chianti Classico district is a zone of strong culinary traditions that have incorporated the culture of farm cooking, the nobility of Chianina beef and the great variety of deli meats made from pork, Cinta Senese hogs and boar. Recently the ancient cultivation of saffron was resumed.

Chianti Classico is an area rich in history, art and culture, much of the artistic legacy is now visible in the many museums of religious art, as at Greve, S. Casciano and Radda. Even contemporary art is represented with the collections of the Sculpture park of Chianti and Castello di Ama. The Landscape Museum in Castelnuovo B. is also very interesting, and of course the Wine Museum in Greve is always worth a visit. In addition to the Enoteca del Chianti Classico in Greve, Gallo Nero (Black Rooster) wines are sold in many stores in all the towns.

October in The Pontine Islands

2012-10-02T04:18:00.002-07:00

The Pontine Islands, known as the Ponziane, comprise two groups: Ponza, Palmarola, Zannone and Gavi to the northwest and Ventotene and Santo Stefano to the southeast. These groups are separated by about 22 nautical miles. Some 6 km to the south of Ponza the solitary rock known as “The Botte” rises from the sea. Italy's Undiscovered Islands, in the Tyrrhenian Sea off of Italy’s west coast, seem like a hidden destination out of a dream. Just far enough from the mainland to be an impractical destination for mass tourism. So much the better for those who do go to the trouble of making a trip here, because what you'll find is a rare Mediterranean gem that has kept its Italian identity intact and undiluted. The rocky coastline is dotted with grottos, both natural and man made. And the pristine beaches and beautiful sunsets look like the makings of a perfectly relaxing getaway. If you want to avoid the holiday scene altogether, just come in the gorgeous shoulder months of May, June, September and October… locals will tell you this is when their island really shines.

They are the result of volcanic activity and has been inhabited for thousands of years. Neolitich artifacts and Bronze Age obsidians have been excavated on the islands. The islands were used by the Etruscans who carved the "Blue Grottos". The earliest recorded history of the islands occurs with the Roman victory over the Volsci at 338 BC. According to a local legend, this was once the lost Kingdom of Tyrrhenia which sank with a narrow strip connected to mainland Italy. The islands have a romantic and ancient history, they were a regular stomping ground for Roman emperors and used during the reign of Caesar Augustus as as a retreat and a place to exile politically troubling citizens.

These days, they are a haven for sailors. Italy's best known documentary film maker, Foloco Quilici, calls the area the most beautiful place he has ever visited. “I cannot recall a year without feeling this urge for the sea, the start of another summer season that will continue until next autumn’s first north west breezes. That I should make the connection between my yearning has visited so many islands in the world – is not only because of their beauty, above and below the water, but because these islands were my first archipelago… Palmarola is the gem of the Archipelago, and for me one of the most beautiful islands ever to have been born of the sea. Here are solitude, silence, emptiness and wonder. Alone with its multicoloured volcanic rocks, its deep and limpid wate s , Palmarola is a mirage of sea beds to explore and to discover, anmisland bewitching in its protected sleep, cradled by a whispering and reassuring sea.”

To reach the archipelago we drive from Rome an hour south to Anzio, one of four towns where ferries leave for Ponza, eponym of the Pontines and the archipelago's main destination. We disembark in Ponza, the largest of the group, we are welcomed by the 18th-century Bourbon port, where a sun-bleached amphitheater of colorful houses looks down on the busy stage of the harbor, which is connected by stairs and passages to the cobblestoned pedestrian high street. One of the most charming parts of a trip to the Pontine Islands would be getting around by boat. Then you can zip up and down the coast, getting the best views of the cliffs, bays, and ancient grottos, and visiting beaches only accessible by water. Two other islands in the archipelago not served by regular ferry, Palmarola and Zannone are classic day trips from Ponza, each just 30 minutes away by boat. Zannone is a nature reserve with quiet hikes, dense forests, and wild sheep running free. This tiny island universe reaches beyond itself, and into a mirror-like sea, reflecting onto its surface and way down to the seabed.

Ventotene and Santo Stefano are land and sea conservation areas, supervised by the Ministry of the Environment, administration being in the hands of the Municipality. Ventotene draws people not just by its beauty but also because, architecturally speaking, Rome is still alive here. Its port remains in use, totally evocative for anyone who understands what it means to drop anchor in a stretch of sea linked to

ancient times and which makes it seem as if 2,000 years had not passed. In fact the port jetty with its two bollards and shops cut straight out of the soft local volcanic rock, are exactly as they once were. Arriving here and tethering the boat to one of the stone bollards, We are doing just what any sailor from a Roman galley or Aragonese man-of-war would have done in his time. To reach the Roman port of Ventotene, we have sailed through the channel that separates this contented island from its small twin Santo Stefano. also contented for the time being though for two centuries a place of sadness and pain. From Bourbon times and until five years ago, Santo Stefano was used as a penitentiary. It continues to be dominated by

the abandoned prison buildings, still massive and structurally intact, reminding one at the same time of Kafkaesque castles and baroque follies in the Neapolitan style.

Tuscan cabbage soup

2012-09-30T01:44:00.000-07:00

Tuscan cabbage is a versatile vegetable that can be used in soups, salads or as a side dish. Also known as cavolo nero, this Italian cabbage has long, narrow, wrinkled, very dark green leaves and a mild flavour. It's a source of vitamin C and provides folate, beta carotene and dietary fibre. Cabbage soup is surely one of the most famous Italian vegetables soup, whose two basic ingredients are typical of Tuscany: bread and cabbage.

Ingredients

Servings 4

1 tin of cannellini beans, rinsed
500 gms – 1 lb. Tuscan cabbage, shredded
2 small onions, chopped
2 small carrots, chopped
2 small potatoes, chopped
2 bunches of swiss-card

1cup tomato souce
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

6 to 8 cups water
Salt and pepper to taste
2 slice of bread

Preparation

Fry lightly in olive oil some onion, celery and carrot, all finely chopped. When the onion wilts, add a coarsley shredded cabbage; when also the cabbage gets tender, add 2 potatoes and 4 or 5 courgettes cut into cubes. As soon as also these vegetables become soft, add 1 cup of tomato sauce, mix to blend it with all the ingredients, then add 2 bunches of swiss-card (about 1 pound) 2 of red cabbage and the beans. Leave to cook slowly for at least 1 and a half hour. About 30 minutes before the cooking time is over, add basil and thyme. In the meanwhile slice some bread into a soup tureen, pour the hot soup onto and leave to rest until the following day. Before serving put the lot again on the flame and leave it to simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.

Autumn has arrived: here is a tasty recipe to Help You Celebrate the First Day of Fall!

2012-09-24T04:01:00.001-07:00

The sights, sounds and smells of fall stir the soul, but delight is mixed with melancholy. Autumn can mean a sort of sadness which is not entirely unwelcome; a sort of sober, slowing-down of the spirit, leaving us much given to reflection. Indeed for anyone capable of looking up from their screen, for anyone in the slightest way alive to the rhythms of the natural world and its sights and sounds and smells, autumn has a peculiar personality of its own which is powerfully attractive. This is a season brimming with the highest level gastronomy, amidst the colours of the grape harvest and noble flavours. Mushrooms, truffles and chestnuts: the fruits of Autumn are venerated and special, like all Italian recipes which exploit abundant quality. I’ll give you a fantastic surf and turf recipe that combines the rich flavors of prawns and mushrooms.

Prawn and Porcini Risotto

Servings 4

¼ oz langoustines, medium

⅝ lb Carnaroli rice

3 ½ oz Porcini Mushrooms

1 ¾ oz onion

½ teaspoon garlic, chopped

6 cups fish broth

¾ oz butter

3 ½ tablespoons white wine

¼ cup olive oil

salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

30 minutes preparation + 16 minutes cooking

Clean the prawns and separate the heads from the tails. Use a pairing knife to make an incision on the underside of the belly and use your finger to remove the meat, placing it in a bowl. Use the heads to make a fumet (a reduced broth), using about 6 cups of water and 2 tsp salt. Bring to a boil and simmer over low heat for at least 20 minutes. Then keep warm.

Clean the mushrooms by cutting off the tips of the stems and wash, if necessary, with a wet dishcloth. Then cut into thin slices.

Place a pot over medium heat. Add oil, and once it is hot, add crushed garlic. Do not let it brown. Once slightly golden, add the prawn meat and mushrooms.

Cook for about 2 minutes. Add the rice and toast it for a couple of minutes or until it becomes transparent. Then add the wine and, once almost all of it has evaporated, add a couple ladlefuls of boiling, filtered fumet. Lower the heat and continue to add fumet, a ladleful at a time, as it is absorbed by the rice.

After about 12 minutes, add washed, chopped arugula. After 5 more minutes, adjust the salt and pepper. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the butter and cognac.

Before serving, check to see if the risotto is too dry. If so, add more fumet or hot water. Stir and serve immediately.

What's the secret to a good Italian coffee?

2012-09-21T01:05:00.002-07:00

Coffee is the great protagonist of the awakening of many Italians. During breakfast and after lunch, an espresso in Italy it' s a must. But how ta make a good espresso with the classic mocha coffee?

Here are some simple tips:

1. The mixture of coffee should be of good quality, and once opened should be stored in a closed container, away from foods that emit strong odors and may alter the flavor.

2. Water is also very important. It Would be better to use fresh water and low in calcium. Not recommended the use of hot water to try to expedite the preparation.

3. Fill the boiler up to the level of safety valve, without exceeding it.

4. Fill the coffee filter generously. without pressing the powder, and making a bum.

5. Close the pot tightly and put it on low heat.

6. As soon as the coffee begins to come out, lift the lid, so as to prevent that the condensation falls on pot.

7. Before the coffee is completely left, remove the pot from the tire.

Important: never leave boiling coffee on the fire. the flavour would taste of burn!Enjoy the coffee when is still hot!

Homemade Noodles recipy

2012-09-20T11:42:00.001-07:00

It is very simple to make your own fresh pasta at home, even without a pasta machine. Just follow these basic steps and discover the delicious taste and satisfaction of eating your very own pasta.

Italian fresh tomato sauce

2012-08-15T04:51:00.002-07:00

The fresh tomato sauce with basil is the Mediterranean condiment par excellence.Simple and tasty, better if done in summer, when tomatoes are tasty and fragrant. To prepare the tomato sauce you can buy the cherry tomatoes , or San Marzano tomatoes. It’s very important to choose the freshest ripe tomatoes, but firm and sound.
Check them one by one, remove the stalks and wash them very well, then dry them. Cut each tomato in half eliminating the green part of the stalks and the seeds.
Put the tomatoes in a steel sauce pan than put it on low heat covered; cook the tomatoes, turning occasionally, until they are mushy. Then put a masher on a bowl and mash all tomatoes and put the sauce on the fire again, add salt and oil and let it thicken until desired density. Then remove the pot from the stove, add the basil to the sauce.
the phase 2 will soon be available on the book "the secret of Italian cooking" in September on amazon.

Potato Gnocchi Handmade

2012-07-26T01:57:00.001-07:00

The gnocchi recipe Grandma Anna taught me reveals the secrets to a perfect dough. It has just three ingredients - boiled, starchy russet potatoes combined with a minimal amount of flour (too much flour and your gnocchi are going to be heavy), and a bit of salt - no eggs. Here's the video that shows us how Anna realizes this wonderful dough .So light and delicious that you may eat even two meals without feeling full up.

The secret of Paganini's "Campanella"

2012-07-25T05:41:00.000-07:00

PAGANINI, Niccolò borns in Genoa, in 1782, his studies violin and guitar mandolin.

He has only 12 years old, when starts to plays concerts writes form himself, to pay his musicians studies, his family wasn't rich.

He has 18 when becames popular in all North Italy, but His fame as a violinist was only matched by his reputation as a gambler and womanizer.

It's only in 1821 Niccolò Paganini plays in Vienna, and, after, becames famous in all Europe.

His technical ability, and his willingness to display them, gained much acclaim from critics across Europe.
In addition to his own compositions, theme and variations being the most popular; also his technique becames popular, in North Italy, a legend talks his technique becames from 'a pact with Devil' because wasn't easy to reproduce all his technique.

In every concert, his fingers bleeds for the big work supported: in a particular concert the Turin's Governor asked to Paganini to repeat the last 'concerto', but him answer: "Paganini doesn't repeat" : that answer becames, in Italian language, a tipically "way of saying", used still now, that example to understand to you the big impact to all Italian society of Paganini's phenomenon.

We can say, like many musicians say, that in the music exist "before Paganini" and "after Paganini"; the only musicianhas had that big impact was for rock music and for electic guitar as Paganini, has had for classic music and for Violin strument has been Jimi Endrix with his guitar.

Another particulary alimented Paganini's legend that call him The Devil's Violinist, is his violin, a Stradivari, called "Cannon" for his big power of sound.

Uto Ughi one of the most important Italian violinist presents to us the last time the Paganini Concerto in B minor. Once called "The Bell" because there is a very witty dialogue between violin and orchestra bells. Paganini is a lot of fun to do these things original. He performed this last time, in all theaters of Europe enjoying the greatest success.

Paganini's genius lay not only within the limits of human transcendental virtuosity.

His deep and poetic aim is to make violin as a human voice.

Each string had its color, its hue, his feelings and dreams.

Uto Ughi in the video explains very well what is meant by "Tell Bell" and then perform the song in full.

Pienza: a tiny Tuscan town with outsized Renaissance architecture and the best pecorino cheese in Italy

2012-07-24T01:57:00.001-07:00

In the middle of the Crete Senese—the picture postcard Tuscan landscape south of Siena of rolling grasslands, grazing sheep, and marching lines of cypress trees—rises the tiny town of Pienza, famed for its sublime sheeps'-milk cheeses and its delightful Renaissance architecture.

Pienza is miniscule: just a nine blocks long and three blocks wide, still encircled by its medieval walls, and a population that—including the surrounding area—tops out at 2,231. However, what would otherwise be a scenic blip on the map has an outsized history and major draw in the form of its central piazza.

Thanks to the quirky ambition and deep pockets of a homegrown pope, the main square of Pienza—and the buildings surrounding it and stretching down the main street— were all completely overhauled by a Renaissance architect and laid out as an homage to all those paintings of "the perfect Renaissance city."

Pienza is famous not only for its architectures but also for the excellent sheep's milk cheese, or more correctly, ewes' milk cheese, pecorino, produced in the area.

The surrounding rolling grasslands raise the sheep that provide Pienza with its other claim to fame—arguably Italy's best and finest pecorino cheeses, available in multiple styles and flavors at the handful of shops and boutiques in this tiny town.

Pecorino just means "sheep's cheese." It is often referred to by its nickname, cacio (pronounced KA-cho). This is no, however, the hard, salty/sweet pecorino romano you are used to grating onto your pasta back home. Though there are various stages of aged, hardened pecorinos on hand, the best pecorinos in Pienza are of the pecorino fresco, or fresh, variety, a soft, buttery cheese that brims with subtle flavors.

Many cheeses are also cured or aged in various wrappings or coatings, imparting still more flavors (some producers actually mix flavors into the cheese itself—bits of black truffle are popular—but purists scoff that this mars the taste and the cheese).

Until the end of World War II, Tuscans used the term "cacio", and indeed the cheese rolling competition held in Pienza on the first Sunday of September is know as"cacio al fuso" - literally, the cheese to the spindle. The aim of the participants in this popular festival is to see who can roll the cheese so that it stops closest to the spindle.

Ennio Morricone and Venice

2012-07-24T01:24:00.001-07:00

Ennio Morricone and Venice.One of the many artists that makes Italy great

Song taken from the movie "Nuovo Cinema Paradiso", performed in the magical setting of San Marco's square in Venice and directed by Ennio Morricone himself.