Padua, in Veneto, is a very important city of Italy. It can be easily compared with all the big three (Rome, Venice, Florence) because its culture, its historical heritage and its city center are all extremely fascinating. Many illustrious personalities like Dante, Galileo and Petrarch have left their trails in this city. Padua is renowned for the Cappella of Scrovegni, the Basilica of St. Anthony of Padua and many other majestic buildings like Il Palazzo della Ragione (The Palace of Reason). Continue reading "The Legend Of The Pazientina Cake, A Delicacy Of Padua, Veneto"
Month: November 2016
Palio di Siena: The History Of The Contrade Flags & Colors
We already wrote an article about the Palio di Siena (check the link to have a brief overview of it) but this event is such a big cultural moment not only in Tuscany, but in the whole country of Italy. Intertwined with the horse race, which is the peak of the celebrations, there are so many stories, events, legends, and curiosities which are worth narrating. In this article, I am going to write about the different districts (the so called Contrade) of the city which are involved in the Palio, describing in particular their history, colors, and flags. Continue reading "Palio di Siena: The History Of The Contrade Flags & Colors"
The Tropea Onions Have Many Different Uses & Benefits
You’re right, onions make you cry and in many cases can leave you with bad breath, but they are one of the most important vegetables in the Mediterranean diet. In Italy, there are many different types of onions for example, from Suasa, in the Marche region, or Breme, in the Lombardy region. Besides them, the red onions of Tropea, in the Calabria region, stand out all over the world for their sweetness and authentic flavor. Every respectable cook should have at least a couple of Tropea onions in his own kitchen. Continue reading "The Tropea Onions Have Many Different Uses & Benefits"
Discover The Rich History Of The Valadier Temple In Marche, Italy
In Italy, the more you explore the more you realize that in every corner you can find a piece of art, a secret, or some joy for the eyes. In the Marche region, The Temple of Valadier is one of those places lost among the Apennines and sheltered inside a karst cave. This place mixes a spiritual and ascetic setting with a sense of discovery and adventure. Continue reading "Discover The Rich History Of The Valadier Temple In Marche, Italy"
What Is The History Of The Anatomical Theater of Padova, Italy?
Padova’s anatomical theater was the world’s first permanent structure built to promote the study of anatomy through dissections. It is located in the center of Padova inside of Palazzo del Bo, which houses the headquarters of the University of Padova. Conceived by famed surgeon Girolamo Fabrizi d'Acquapendente in 1594, the purpose of this anatomical theater was to allow medical students to witness human and animal dissections in real-time. Continue reading "What Is The History Of The Anatomical Theater of Padova, Italy?"
When Are The Best Times To Travel To Italy?
Thanks to the differing climate zones in various areas of the country, each month of the year provides an ideal Italian destination. Therefore, deciding when to travel to Italy depends almost exclusively upon one’s interests. Below are some tips regarding the best months to travel based on selected interests and regions. One thing to keep in mind is that the month of August is when much of the county experiences its hottest temperatures and most locals go on vacation, so expect many attractions and restaurants to be closed during this month. Continue reading "When Are The Best Times To Travel To Italy?"
The Spectacular Boats of Venice’s Regatta
We previously published an article giving a brief overview of the historic regatta that occurs in Venice every first Sunday in September, but the colorful boats that participate in the regatta each year are certainly worthy of their own article. From the very beginning, boats are the true stars of this event thanks to the opening procession of antique 16th century ships. Participating in the procession are the long Bissone boats, which are shaped like ancient warships and nicknamed “snakes”, and a recreation of the massive Bucentaur, which was the official barge of the Doge. Continue reading "The Spectacular Boats of Venice’s Regatta"
The Origin of Trentino-Alto Adige and The Mix Of Cultures
Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy’s northernmost region, has a particular cultural background thanks to its proximity to Austria. In fact, the region has been at the crossroads of the Mediterranean and the Germanic cultures for centuries. With strong influences from both Italy and Austria, Trentino-Alto Adige has formed its own culture and traditions that completely set it apart from both countries.
Continue reading "The Origin of Trentino-Alto Adige and The Mix Of Cultures"
About The St. Bernard Dog Breed & Their Life In The Mountains
Most of us love pets. They give us emotions, a lot of happiness throughout the day, and they make our return home sweeter every time. Dogs are considered dependable, and reliable. With a peaceful attitude and enormous proportions, the St. Bernard breed is the best example of these qualities. These dogs are known for helping people face difficult mountain paths and saving lives in the most extreme conditions. Continue reading "About The St. Bernard Dog Breed & Their Life In The Mountains"