In the Italian region of Umbria, fairs are common events and they have a rich history that dates back to medieval times. The earliest fairs in this area were celebrations of Ognisanti (All Saints Day) at the beginning of November. These fairs developed into bustling markets that allowed commerce between medieval towns to flourish, and they also provided the opportunity for people to gather provisions for the winter. In modern times, these markets have greatly expanded, but much of the original spirit remains.
Fun Facts and Curiosities
Where Can We Take The Kids In Italy?
If you are thinking about a family vacation to Italy, you may worry that your younger children will be bored with the many museums, churches, ancient ruins and culture that you would like to explore throughout this beautiful country. But there are also some interesting and educational sights that your kids will think are just plain fun.
Flower Festival of Genzano
Relax And Smell The Roses...Plus A Million Other Flowers
In Italy, everything is about beauty, art and celebration. In the second week of June, they all come together in the “Infiorata”, or Flower Festival, held in Genzano, which is just outside of Rome.
It is a tradition that started in the 1700s, but it pays homage to the Christian celebration of Corpus Christi back in the 13th Century, when townspeople would throw sacrament petals during the procession through the streets.
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Love Gelato? Learn To Be A Gelatiere!
Many people travel to Italy to learn how to cook classic Italian recipes. But have you thought about dessert? If you have ever enjoyed gelato, you may wonder how it is made, what the difference is from ice cream and, possibly, how you could start your own business. Continue reading "Love Gelato? Learn To Be A Gelatiere!"
An Egg-straordinary Castle
An Enchanted Castle That Is Egg-straordinary
The power of magic and legend can influence the destiny of an entire city and its people. And so it was, in medieval times in Naples, where a prophecy involving an enchanted egg became a symbol to its citizens of protection against disaster. Continue reading "An Egg-straordinary Castle"
An Annual Tribute To Snakes
Many countries have interesting traditions involving folklore, festivals and even living creatures, such as the running of the bulls in Spain. But come to Italy, and you will find the most unique of them all. Continue reading "An Annual Tribute To Snakes"
Happy Hour In Italian? Aperitivo!
How Do You Say Happy Hour In Italian? Aperitivo!
Milan is known for many things…fashion, finance, industry, museums and universities. But the second largest city in Italy is also the capital of the Aperitivo.
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Ronciglione Carnival and Ussari parade
In the region of Lazio, in the province of Viterbo, there is a town called Ronciglione that celebrates a unique carnival throughout its streets. The Ronciglione Carnival is a great moment for the city and this events attract a lot of visitors.
Usually the Ronciglione Carnival takes place from the Thursday before the Shrove Tuesday up to the Shrove Tuesday itself. During this days there are different types of events and especially three are worth to mention. Continue reading "Ronciglione Carnival and Ussari parade"
Il pranzo di Natale – The Italian Christmas Lunch
Christmas day, it's a great festivity in the most part of the world. In Italy, is an important moment of the year because is the occasion, more than the others, to reunite all the family around a table.The Italian Christmas lunch is a great challenge for the stomachs of all the participants. Usually, takes place at the grandma's house and it lasts for hours. Many special dishes are prepared, following special traditions of the family or traditional recipes, always revisited by the knowledgeable hands of mothers and grandmothers. Through those recipes, it's an occasion to revive stories and memories about the family traditions. In some families happens that the last part of the lunch is the moment to exchange and open the Christmas presents that every member have received. Continue reading "Il pranzo di Natale – The Italian Christmas Lunch"
Christmas Markets in Trentino
It truly looks like Christmas… in Trentino!
You have not truly experienced the Christmas spirit until you have gone to the Christmas Markets in Italy’s northern region of Trentino Alto Adige. From November 22nd through January 6th, the main plazas of towns like Merano, Brunico, Bolzano, Trento and many others, come alive with the true charm of the holiday season.