Travel to the Northern part of the Tuscan coast and you will find a beautiful town called Viareggio. As it sits on the coast, this charming seaside town began as a medieval fishing village, and later became known for its shipbuilding. One of the main attractions of Viareggio occurs during Carnival, which is the period of fun and feasting before Lent.
2014
New Year’s Cotechino and Lentils
A Delicious and Rewarding New Year’s Eve Tradition!
Italians have a knack for celebrating traditions with festive meals and, as the year comes to a close, there is none so delicious as Cotechino with Lentils on New Year’s Eve.The tradition behind eating a hearty meal of Cotechino with Lentils on New Year’s Eve is based upon an old Italian custom. Since Lentils are somewhat flat like coins, the idea is that if, at the stroke of midnight, you start the New Year by eating lentils, it will bring you fortune. The more lentils you eat, the richer you will be.
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.
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Enjoy The Original Spring Water of Rome
When in Rome, do as the Romans do. That includes drinking the water from one of the many beautiful public fountains around the city. It is truly the freshest supply of drinkable water and one could say it originated the concept of fresh spring water, as it has been available for public drinking since 312 B.C. Continue reading "Enjoy The Original Spring Water of Rome"
Take Flight Through The Lucanian Dolomites
The “Dolomiti Lucane” or Lucanian Dolomites is found in the Regional Park of Gallipoli Cognato in the heart of Basilicata. This rocky chain of sandstones has a rugged, almost lunar landscape, which is reminiscent of the mountains of the eastern Alps. Continue reading "Take Flight Through The Lucanian Dolomites"
Michelangelo – The Greatest Artist Of All Time
Italy is second to none when it comes to masterpieces of art and statues, architecture, museums, and squares. So it is no surprise that one of the most important artists of all- time was born and raised in Italy. Continue reading "Michelangelo – The Greatest Artist Of All Time"
What Is The Festa dei Ceri In Gubbio Italy?
When one hears the “Town of Mads” a variety of things may come to mind. A town dedicated to craziness, or perhaps a village filled with rumors that would drive inhabitants mad if listened to long enough? However, none of these ridiculous thoughts ring true. In fact, the “Town of Mads” is a small medieval area nestled in the hills and mountains of Italy known as Gubbio. It is given such a name for its ancient festival known as the Festa dei Ceri. This festival, thrown every year on May 15th, has been enjoyed by Italians since the twelfth century. The Festa dei Ceri is known as one of the oldest and most noble festivals still experienced in this exciting country.
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Visiting The Castles of Turin Italy Will Leave A Lasting Impression
The castles of Turin Italy may be one of the country's best kept treasures. Turin is located in northern Italy nestled against the Po River, with the beautiful Alps surrounding the culture rich city of approximately 900,000 people. As well as being the home of the royal family of Italy, Turin boasts beautiful castles, museums and churches with a strong French influence.
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Salemi Is A Town In Sicily That was The First Capital Of Italy
Tucked in the western point of Sicily, Salemi is a small town of about 11,000 people tucked into the Belice valley. It sits about 100 kilometers, or about 62 miles, outside of Palermo and is near Segesta and Selinunte, a pair of ancient cities that were constantly at war with each other. All that’s left of these two relics are some stoic Greek temples. Though the town is modestly sized, it possesses a long and interesting history that includes many peoples. The Greeks, the Romans and eventually barbarians passing through the Arabs all controlled the town at different times. During Arabic control, the town prospered and named itself after the Arabic word “salem,” which means “peace, health, or safe town.”
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See Italy By Train
Have you ever wanted to explore the exciting grandeur that is Italy? Have you wondered what it would be like to behold the beauty that has set the scene for the most romantic of stories? “Trenino Rosso del Bernina” (the little red train of the Bernina) can escort you through some of the most thrilling areas of Italy, offering panoramic views of colorful mountain sides, elegant cities, and beautiful scenery. Explore these cities in a unique and memorable way through rain, snow, sunshine, or cloudy skies with one of the most enchanting means of travel.
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