VILLAMAGNA …a lesser known DOC

Villamagna DOC The Villamagna DOC designation is relatively new, introduced in 2011, and includes red wines made with Montepulciano grapes grown in the municipality of Villamagna. The DOC is also the result of feverish efforts undertaken in 2011 to create as many appellations as possible before Italy ceded control of the area to the EuropeanContinue reading “VILLAMAGNA …a lesser known DOC”

The Cavalcade of the Assumption

The Cavalcade of the Assumption is the oldest historical reenactment based on attested written sources in Italy. It is held annually in Fermo to celebrate the city’s devotion to the patron saint, the Virgin Mary, assumed into heaven. Everyone knows the famous Palio di Siena, but similar, age-old traditions exist throughout Italy. Today we moveContinue reading “The Cavalcade of the Assumption”

FERRAGOSTO

Ferragosto, celebrated on August 15th, has its origins in ancient Rome. It derives from the Latin “Feriae Augusti,” meaning “Augustus’ Rest,” and was established by Emperor Augustus in 18 BC. Initially, it was a holiday to mark the end of summer agricultural work, with a period of rest and celebrations for workers. Over time, theContinue reading “FERRAGOSTO”

What are the best Italian tomatoes: here are all the varieties to try.

TomatoesWhen you say Italy, you think of tomatoes, even though the fruit is far from native. There are over 5,000 registered varieties, distinguished by shape, color, flavor, and size. And many of the best ones grow right here in Italy, demonstrating that tradition is a successful innovation, as Oscar Wilde wrote before Monsieur de Lapalisse.Continue reading “What are the best Italian tomatoes: here are all the varieties to try.”

OSTUNI: the second largest “rosone” (rose window) in Europe

For the people of Ostuni (the White city), the cathedral’s rose window is the most beautiful and largest, but in reality, it is the second largest in Europe. The splendid Gothic cathedral, built between 1469 and 1495, stands just steps from Piazza della Libertà, looming eternally just beyond the Arco degli Incalzi—one of Frederick II’sContinue reading “OSTUNI: the second largest “rosone” (rose window) in Europe”

Centenary of Giacomo Puccini

The 100th anniversary of Giacomo Puccini’s death is an opportunity to commemorate one of the greatest composers in history. Giacomo Puccini was born in Lucca, home of rich musical traditions, on December 22, 1858. His family has a long and prestigious history linked to music in the province of Tuscany. Unfortunately, at only six yearsContinue reading “Centenary of Giacomo Puccini”

IL PALIO DI CHIOGGIA

The Palio della Marciliana is a historical re-enactment and one of the main popular city festivals held annually in Chioggia, in the province of Venice. It includes the Crossbow Tournament and attracts thousands of visitors to the city of the Venetian lagoon every year. It is organised on the third weekend of June and bringsContinue reading “IL PALIO DI CHIOGGIA”