Art & Culture in Italy

Today, this is mainly noticeable by the abundance of greenery and flowers around the edges of the stone houses, or by certain well-sculpted portals – for example at the Doge's Palace, with its history as a 15th-century fortified building – but Oratino has been the home of well-known painters, sculptors and stonemasons, even outside Molise. This can best be seen by entering the church of S. Mary of Loreto, ancient although reconstructed in the 16th century, with remarkable 18th century sculptures and frescoes (of particular note is an Assumption of the Virgin in the vault), or in the parish church of S. Maria Assunta. Little more than a village, Oratino is perched on a limestone cliff from where the Biferno valley is clearly visible in all its breadth. In fact, this corner of Molise has quite a few cliffs, and in fact the so-called morge, isolated rocky blocks of limestone and sandstone. On the morgia closest to Oratino, which is called la Rocca and is located a few kilometres from the town in the direction of the valley, stands a four-storey square-based tower that, impressively, has more than a millennium of history behind it. The roots of the settlements in the area are actually even older: archaeological excavations conducted around the tower have uncovered materials from the Bronze Age, even before the Samnites, and a mediaeval village. The village is thought to have been abandoned after the earthquake of the mid-15th century, the same one that reduced Campobasso to rubble. Nowadays, this morgia is once again frequented by rock climbers: they use it as a climbing wall. Find out more: https://www.parcodellemorge.it

Orange Flag of the Italian Touring Club The village inextricably links its name to that of Leonardo, who was born here. Vinci has its centre in the Castello dei Conti Guidi, also known as the "ship's castle" for the elongated shape that recalls the shape of a sailing boat. In addition to preserving a beautiful ceramic Madonna and Child by Giovanni della Robbia, today it houses the Leonardian Museum, one of the largest and most original collections of machines and instruments, dedicated to Leonardo, a technologist and engineer, and more generally to the history of technology in the Renaissance. Also worth a visit are the church of Santa Croce, where Leonardo was baptised, and the contemporary works of art dedicated to him, such as Mario Ceroli's sculpture in Piazza del Castello, Nina Akamu's bronze Horse and Mimmo Paladino's Piazza dei Guidi. Also noteworthy is the Leonardian Library, an international documentation centre. Apart from the birthplace of Leonardo in Anchiano, 3 km from Vinci: here a life-size hologram meets visitors and through digital animations and interactive applications presents the history of the Genius, his biography and his works. The hills around Vinci offer excellent products such as extra virgin olive oil and Chianti wine.

The acropolis is located not too far from the island's main landing place, on the hills of St. Mark's and St. Theresa's, which dominate the port area and were once home to the main public and political offices of the time. There are many finds from Roman times, including an ancient water supply system and three marble heads of the emperors Julius Caesar, Antonia Minor and Titus.

From the sea at Albenga, a pleasant town in western Liguria, there is a loop route that takes you through the alpine environment of the Arroscia valley, crosses into Piedmont, and descends along the Neva valley, narrow and embedded between limestone walls. This leads to the discovery of isolated, quiet and curious places such as the Rainer Kriester Sculpture Park, the frescoes in the church of S. Pantaleo near Ranzo, and the winding streets that reach very small, clinging and timeless mountain villages, such as the Pieve di Teco. It crosses into Piedmont, in the Tanaro Valley, with the rugged mountains surrounding Ormea and Garessio, in Cuneo. We return to Liguria, passing through tiny villages full of charm and stories to be told: Castelvecchio di Rocca Barbena and Zuccarello.

Lazise, a municipality on the south-eastern shore of Lake Garda, has been ranked among the top 20 destinations in Italy for years. The extensive hilly agricultural landscape, a thermal spring, several famous amusement parks, buildings and stately villas testify to the long history of Lazise and the two hamlets that are part of it: Colà and Pacengo.

Between the Tyrrhenian Sea and the hilly hinterland of the Maremma At the southernmost tip of Tuscany, between the Tyrrhenian Sea and the hilly hinterland, lies Capalbio. The village is dominated by its castle of the same name, which Charlemagne donated to the Abbey of Saints Anastasius and Vincent alle Tre Fontane in 805. This popular tourist resort in the southern part of the Maremma is protected by two city walls built between the 11th and 15th centuries. The tower of the Aldobrandesca fortress stands out, adjacent to Palazzo Collacchioni, a stately building from the Renaissance period, rich in frescoes. A few steps away is the Church of San Nicola, preserving a series of decorations from the Umbro-Senese school. Outside the walls stands the Oratorio della Provvidenza, an 18th-century extension of a pre-existing chapel where some frescoes attributed to Pinturicchio can be admired. Among the many beaches along the coastline, Playa La Torba in Ansedonia, with its characteristic black sand, and Macchiatonda, near the Lago di Burano Nature Reserve, which is largely free and wild, are worth a mention. Towards the Lazio border is the famous Ultima Spiaggia establishment, while going up towards Orbetello is the Argentario headland. The area lends itself very well to outdoor activities, such as windsurfing. Ufficio IAT - Informazione e accoglienza turistica Capalbio c/o Castello Collacchioni, Via Collacchioni, 4, 58011 Capalbio GR tel 0564 896611

A small, pretty village in the Subappennino Dauno area, Biccari stands in a borderland near Campania. The village is a small treasure set in a treasure chest of verdant nature, amidst still unspoilt and wild landscapes, such as the natural area of Lake Pescara and the Cerasa Forest, which lies at the foot of the region's highest peak, Mount Cornacchia. Here it is possible to make a special excursion, which allows you to penetrate the greenery enough to catch a glimpse of the last wolves of Apulia, elegant and precious animals that are unfortunately disappearing faster and faster from our lands. Not to be missed, however, is also the historic centre, fascinating and evocative with its narrow streets and historic buildings.

Atrani: a charming, tiny village with an ancient heart Less than a kilometre from Amalfi, Atrani's geographical position makes it a strategic point for exploring the entire Amalfi Coast, of which it forms part. An ancient world in miniature, we are in the smallest Italian municipality by surface area, rich in history that attests to the passage of many peoples. The only town on the Costiera to retain the fascinating atmosphere of a fishing village in the south of Italy, Atrani is distinguished by its handful of small houses that cluster on the hillside from the beach. An inspiring place, then and now The village of Atrani is of Roman origin, at which time it was called Atranum. Afterwards, everyone passed through here: Etruscans, Greeks, Normans, Swabians, French and Spanish, attracted by its position as a vantage point over the sea, along the valley of the river Dragone with the high, impregnable mountains behind it. The landscape has always been the same, and the view is one of the most evocative on the Coast. Take a leisurely stroll through narrow alleyways, courtyards and walkways protected by arches, along the ups and downs of steps that all converge on the sea. This is enough to explore the places most steeped in history. Leave your car behind, and if you feel like a scenic walk, you could walk straight from Amalfi. There is peace in this natural hollow of the Amalfi Coast, protected from noise and traffic. A coffee in the piazzetta Head towards Piazza Umberto I, better known as the piazzetta, and sit down for an espresso coffee in this welcoming spot, looking out towards the sea since it was created as a mooring for boats on stormy days. Visit the Church of San Salvatore de' Bireto overlooking the square: it was first built in the year 1000, although today it is in pure Neoclassical style. It was here that the investiture of the Doges of the Maritime Republic of Amalfi took place. Marvel at the number of small churches in the village, peek inside to admire their paintings and statues. Make sure not to miss the Church of the Carmine and the Church of S. Michele Fuori le Mura, among others. At the trattoria Even the eating establishments here in Atrani exude the scent of history, and a gastronomic stop provides an authentic taste experience in an inspiring setting. Take a seat at a table in the open air, under umbrellas or in the discreet glow of the lighting in the evening. Some taverns set up tables under arches used for sheltering fishermen and storing nets. If you are in the area in July, head to Atrani on the 22nd. On this date, celebrations are held in honour of Santa Maria Maddalena and the typical celebratory dish is the Sarchiapone: cannelloni made from cylinders of long pumpkins, stuffed with minced meat, fried and bathed in tomato sauce. Atrani also has a long tradition in the production of fresh pasta. Come and enjoy it here, flavoured with the bounties of the sea. And at all hours, including the end of the meal, try the pasticciotto. The people of Campania claim that the best is that of Atrani: a crumbly pastry, which in the local version contains a filling of custard and sour cherries. A dip in the bay The sheer cliffs surround a small beach of sand mixed with fine gravel, partly free and partly with bathing facilities, divided in half by the Dragone river. The sea is clear and calm, somewhere between green and blue. Take a swim and look up for a glimpse of the village with its small colourful houses and churches; beyond, you can see the verdant, towering mountain. And head back there in the evening to watch the fishermen set off to fish for lampreys.

It is a village rich in tradition and history, Satriano di Lucania, nestled between the slopes of three rocks: the Castle, the Piesco and the Madonna della Rocca, overlooking the banks of the Melandro river. A village that was the birthplace of the painter Giovanni de Gregorio known as 'Il Pietrafesa' after the ancient name of the town, Satriano is famous as the 'mural capital of Southern Italy': in fact, there are more than 500 murals in the town centre, increasing every year. The town also boasts the Accademia del Peperoncino Lucano (Lucanian Chilli Pepper Academy), a symbol of local gastronomy. And finally, Satriano is its Carnival, a historical, archaic, extremely evocative carnival. It is one of the most famous events in the region and is centred on the figure of 'RUMIT', the Tree Man, and the Walking Forest, elements that narrate the importance of the land in the identity of this place.

The land of truffles The unmistakable scent of truffles wafts through the alleyways of Vezza d'Alba, a thousand-year-old village and first stop on the Romantic Road of the Langhe and Roero. The town is surrounded by hills, deep gorges and the sheer walls of the Rocche del Roero and, on the left, it is caressed by the waters of the Tanaro. Despite the rugged, wild landscape, the village retains a delicate, almost fairytale-like charm. Visit the Church of San Bernardino, the Sanctuary of the Madonna dei Boschi and the Roero Natural History Museum, for a journey to discover the history of Vezza d'Alba and its territory. Sitting at the table, enjoy the delights of traditional cuisine, naturally based on truffles, but also peaches and madernassa pears, an indigenous variety of the Roero. All accompanied by a glass of Roero Arneis, one of Piedmont's finest white wines.

The city of painted facades and chocolate Its name may be confusing to tourists visiting for the first time. Despite its name, Novi Ligure is actually located in Piedmont, in the province of Alessandria. The link with Liguria is, however, historically very strong and the Genoese, who controlled it for a long time, have left several signs of their passage. Like the beautiful painted facades of the old town centre, colourful evidence of the Novi’s splendour during the 17th century. Among the decorations not to be missed is undoubtedly that of Palazzo Costa, in Piazza Dellepiane, with its two sundials. Also stop to admire the Cathedral, the Church of the Magdalene and the Salt Fountain, in memory of when, in the 19th century, the Novi’s inhabitants protested against the British who had confiscated the entire salt and tobacco depository. Novi Ligure will tempt your palates with chocolate and flavours that mix Genoese and Piedmontese traditions. Indulge in a slice of focaccia or a plate of corzetti, a round, thin pasta format to be prepared with mushrooms and sausage.

A symbol of wealth in Sulmona Some claim that an aqueduct has existed in Sulmona in Roman times. What we know for sure is that the Acquedotto Svevo aqueduct that we can see today was inaugurated in 1256, during the reign of Manfred of Swabia who, with this structure of mighty arches, wanted to make it possible to transport water from Pacentro to Pratola Peligna while also symbolising the prosperity of Sulmona and its territory. You can find it in Piazza Garibaldi. The structure, 106 metres long with a height difference of 10 metres, has 21 round arches divided into three sections. It is no longer functional, but its arches and majesty never cease to amaze all who visit. You are sure to be stunned by its artistic beauty and the technical precision of its structure that has withstood the passage of time, preserving all its charm over the centuries.

The heart of Bergamo Alta Piazza Vecchia is considered the "renaissance parlor" where all the medieval streets of the upper city join together. At the center of the square is the Contarini Fountain, the main meeting place of locals and tourists alike. Major historical buildings stand on the square, such as the Angelo Mai Civic Library hosted inside Palazzo Nuovo or Palazzo della Ragione, under which is an ancient sundial built in the 18th century. At noon sharp (solar time) the ray of sun filtering through the hole in the shield hanging from the arches marks the date and zodiac sign. In Piazza Vecchia there is also the “Campanone”, as the Civic Tower is nicknamed by the people of Bergamo. At 10 p.m. every night, with its 100 chimes, it announces the closing of the gates to Bergamo Alta.

Basilica of Saint Peter Universal seat of the Catholic Church in Rome, Pontifical Chapel and destination of every pilgrimage to the holy city, St. Peter's Basilica houses famous works of art celebrating the Christian faith. Preceded by the spectacular colonnade in St. Peter's Square, it has a majestic façade and is surmounted by the large dome designed by Michelangelo. Regarded as one of the absolute masterpieces of architecture, it is the product of the work of dozens of designers who have created it over 160 years. At St. Peter's tomb The construction of St. Peter's Basilica was started in 1506 on the initiative of Pope Julius II, who is also considered the “father” of the Vatican Museums, and was only finally completed in 1667 with all the final arrangements of the square. On the site of today's basilica stood an early Christian one built by the Emperor Constantine in the 4th century, right where St Peter was supposedly buried. The history of its construction is very complex, with a long list of architects and artists who helped make it possible: Bramante, Giuliano da Sangallo, Raphael, Antonio da Sangallo the Younger, Baldassarre Peruzzi, Michelangelo, Vignola, Giacomo Della Porta, Domenico Fontana, Carlo Maderno and, in the last 40 years, Gian Lorenzo Bernini. The colonnade and façade of St Peter's Basilica A piece of advice: enter the square from one of the side entrances to guarantee the surprise effect of Bernini's elliptical colonnade, which suddenly opens and seems to move. Coming from the wide, frontal Via della Conciliazione, built in the 20th century, this effect is lost. There are 284 columns and they are topped with 140 statues over three metres high and six coats of arms of Alexander VII. In the centre of the colonnade is an obelisk from ancient Egypt transported to Rome in 37 AD and two fountains, one by Maderno, the other by Fontana. If you stand on the porphyry discs on either side of the obelisk, which are the foci of the ellipse, the rows of columns line up perfectly and you will only see the first one, the others seem to vanish! In order to walk into the Basilica, you have to climb a flight of steps and cross the portico built into the façade: from the central balcony, known as the Loggia delle Benedizioni, the pope appears for the Angelus and when the election of the new pontiff is announced. The interior of the Basilica: an array of masterpieces The interior of the basilica is stunning in its majesty and the richness of Baroque-style decorations. Don't miss the bronze statue of St. Peter, attributed to Arnolfo di Cambio; the monumental canopy with twisted altar columns, made of bronze taken from the Pantheon, 30 metres high, by Gian Lorenzo Bernini; Michelangelo's Pietà, which the sculptor made when he was 23 years old; the funeral monument of Clement XIII, considered to be one of Antonio Canova's best works; the statues of Urban VII, the tomb of Alexander VII and the gilded bronze Chair of St. Peter in the apse, other Bernini masterpieces. After the Sacristy, a late 18th-century room with eight columns from the Villa Adriana in Tivoli, one has access to the Treasury of St. Peter's, where sacred furnishings, statues and various art objects, mostly gifts given to the popes, are on display. Don't miss a ciborium by Donatello, the monument to Sixtus IV by Pollaiolo, some precious works from the Byzantine era and the sarcophagus of Junius Bassus from the 4th century. The majestic dome of St Peter's The symbol of the city of Rome, the “Cupolone” for the Romans, the Dome of St. Peter's was designed by Michelangelo, but he did not see it completed: it was Domenico Fontana and Giacomo Della Porta who completed the building. On the Dome you can take the lift up to the terrace overlooking the square. A staircase of 330 steps in a corridor between the outer and inner dome, about halfway down which you can look out into the first gallery, 53 metres above the ground, and admire the dome mosaics up close. You can also climb to the top of the lantern and from there all of Rome will truly be at your feet. The Vatican Grottoes The so-called Vatican Grottoes are located under the floor of the nave of the basilica, in the gap between the current floor and the floor of the Constantinian basilica on which the church was built. It houses the Tomb of Peter, at the altar and Michelangelo's dome, and numerous other pontiffs and rulers. The Grottoes are a very atmospheric environment with various altars and niches, filled with the artwork adorning the various papal tombs and other works from the early Christian period from the ancient basilica, such as sacred vessels, statues and column fragments. One of the most valuable works is the tomb of Boniface VIII, partly created by the sculptor Arnolfo di Cambio in 1300. Also noteworthy is the tomb of Pius VI by Antonio Canova (19th century).

The Castellaro hill, in Vendone, less than 15 kilometres from Albenga, is the place where in the second half of the 20th century, the German painter and sculptor Reiner Kriester crafted a series of large works in limestone and marble, and had them placed outdoors. Some thirty impressive features, like stelae stretched towards the sky, form the Rainer Kriester's Sculpture Park and bears witness to the dry inspiration of the artist, who had previously, in his reclusive Berlin during the years of the Wall, had matured through more dramatic works and seems to have found a greater sense of peace in Liguria. In fact, the sculptor had stayed here often and for a long time since 1982, until he was welcomed by the small community of Vendone as an honorary citizen.

The Fort stands out in the middle of the steep slopes of the Bard Gorge on an impervious rocky hill and consists of four main bodies (called Opere, to use the terminology of military architecture), placed at different levels between 400 and 467 metres above sea level. The fortress was most likely used for defensive purposes since antiquity. The first evidence of a fortified structure dates back to the 11th century, but the actual fortress only saw the light of day in the 12th century. From 1242, when the lords of Bard were driven out, it passed to the Counts of Savoy. In 1800, the Fort of Bard acted as an obstacle to the onslaught of Napoleon Bonaparte and his 40,000 men who had come down from the Great St. Bernard Pass to sweep across the Po Valley. Napoleon, on his way back to France from Marengo, had the fortress razed to the ground. It was rebuilt between 1830 and 1838 by the military engineer Francesco Antonio Olivero. The Carlo Alberto Opera is the tallest and most impressive of the structures and houses the Museum of the Alps, a multimedia and scientific exhibition illustrating the Alpine territory, with its morphological, naturalistic, geological and climatic characteristics and the changes it has undergone over time. Also in the Carlo Alberto Opera, you can visit the prisons, 24 narrow isolation cells, home to a multimedia exhibition that deals with the famous prisoners who passed through the fort, including Camillo Benso, Count of Cavour. In the Opera di Gola concerts and events take place, the Opera Vittorio, located at the middle level of the fortress, hosts Le Alpi dei ragazzi, a favourite spot for youngsters, who can discover the mountains of the Aosta Valley here while having fun. Opera Ferdinando, at the foot of the fort, houses the Museo delle Frontiere, which tells the story of the western Alps and the relationships between the peoples who inhabited them, and the Fort and Fortifications Museum, dedicated to the evolution of defence works over the centuries, especially in mountain areas.

Decidedly more compact and austere than the nearby castle of Saint-Pierre, the castle of Sarriod de la Tour occupies a small area of plain a few steps from the waters of the Dora Baltea river, about 10 kilometres away from Aosta. The aristocratic Aosta Valley family of the Sarriods ordered the construction of this complex in the Middle Ages, with a decidedly defensive character. The massive central body of the castle (known by the French term donjon), as well as the chapel and the city walls, date back to a period between the 10th and 12th centuries. In the following centuries, the Sarriod descendants added and extensively modified the appearance of the manor: open to the public since the 1970s, the castle is today one of the oldest examples of a medieval fortress in the Aosta Valley.

Behind the Royal Palace and the in front of New Wing, the Royal Gardens are an urban green space that extends beyond the historical ramparts over an area of about seven hectares, and admission is free. They form a sort of connective tissue for the Royal Museums, in harmony with the historical and architectural aspects of the Savoy court. They includes the Ducal Garden, the oldest nucleus north of the Royal Palace, the Garden of the Arts, and the 19th-century Tree Grove. Rich in plant species, water features and fountains, they were designed between 1697 and 1698 for Victor Amadeus II, who had entrusted the task of renovating the green space to the brilliant garden architect André Le Nôtre. Traces of that work remain in the geometric arrangement of the flowerbeds, with the Fountain of the Nereids and Tritons as their centrepiece. The gardens were closed to the public from 1997 to 2021 following the devastating fire in the Chapel of the Shroud. A series of repair phases has restored the various areas to their original appearance, with enhancement of the fountains and plant heritage.

Between Piedmont and Lombardy A small and quiet town, balanced between the Piedmontese tradition and the Lombard influence, Tortona embodies the charm that has impressed centuries of history, since the Ligurian people settled in this area. Today, it is an essential stop for those who are discovering the province of Alexandria. Its historic center is crossed by Via Emilia, the main axis of the city, full of shops, restaurants and bars for a delicious break, but from which also open elegant squares such as Piazza Aristide Arzano. Here you will find Palazzo Guidobono, home to the Archaeological Museum where the Courtyard of the Sarcophagi is preserved. The heart of the city is the Duomo, built in the sixteenth century on the ruins of the Castle. Your gaze will also be caught by the Torrione, visible even from the highway thanks to its 34 meters high. With its bold blend of Liberty and medieval taste, it is Tortona's most photographed monument.

The Cradle of Slow Food Bra is famous for so many things. First of all is the city of Zizzola: the characteristic octagonal building stands on top of the Monte Guglielmo hill and you can easily see it from any angle of the city. How did the brave docs live? You can find out here, by visiting the scenic multimedia museum set-up of the Casa dei Braidesi. Secondly, it is home to the Slow Food movement, promoter of a famous international cheese fair: it is called Cheese and is held every year in September. Get ready for a dip in quality Italian and international dairy products. A taste of Bra DOP is a must. Another excellence of the territory to try if you are a lover of good food is the Bra sausage. Prepared today with lean veal and pork bacon, it was once 100% beef, since in the neighboring municipality of Cherasco there was an important Jewish community that supplied itself at the Braidese market. If you love thrills and folklore, you can go hunting for masche, the Piedmontese witches, along a path that winds through the heart of Roero among the rocks and woods of nearby Pocapaglia.

Between history and ghost towns It may be small, but Rocchetta a Volturno is full of delightful surprises. Near the border with Lazio, this small village in the province of Isernia boasts ancient traditions that are still very much alive. These include the Gl’ Cierv, the Rite of the Deer Man, which is held every year on the last Sunday of Carnival to celebrate the return of spring. To discover the history and culture of Rocchetta, we recommend the Abbey of San Vincenzo al Volturno and its archaeological site. Not forgetting the fresco cycles of the Cripta di Epifanio crypt and the Rock Sanctuary of Santa Maria delle Grotte. Try visiting the International War Museum of the World Wars, which narrates the events of these conflicts, before enjoying the local offal, fiadone cheesecake, and mouth-watering cacaruozze biscuits. Don’t miss the chance to stroll through the alleyways of Rocchetta Alta, the ancient heart of the village. Abandoned due to the high hydrogeological risk in the area, the atmosphere in this ghost town is indescribable.

The capital of Marsica If you are looking for a trip that combines culture and nature, Avezzano is the answer you are looking for. Millennia of history have passed through its center: the area has been inhabited since the Paleolithic. During the Roman domination, it attracted the attention of the emperor Claudius who in 41 AD ordered to build here an impressive hydraulic work. Even today you can walk, with guided tours, the Tunnels of Emperor Claudius, built to protect the houses from the floods of Lake Fucino. Reach Piazza Risorgimento, the heart of the village, to admire the Marsi Cathedral and its splendid mosaics. Do not miss the opportunity to also visit the Orsini-Colonna Castle or Avezzano Castle, today home to the Pinacoteca di Arte Moderna, the Sanctuary of the Madonna di Pietraquaria and the Orthodox Church of San Giuseppe. In the garden of Villa Torlonia are exhibited traditional agricultural tools. Avezzano is located in a strategic position that will allow you to easily reach some of the most beautiful trekking routes of Abruzzo, within the Sirente Velino Regional Natural Park and the Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park. Walk or bike through the Ring of the Lake. The most reckless can be launched by paragliding in the guided nature reserve Monte Salviano.

A symbol of wealth in Sulmona Some claim that an aqueduct has existed in Sulmona in Roman times. What we know for sure is that the Acquedotto Svevo aqueduct that we can see today was inaugurated in 1256, during the reign of Manfred of Swabia who, with this structure of mighty arches, wanted to make it possible to transport water from Pacentro to Pratola Peligna while also symbolising the prosperity of Sulmona and its territory. You can find it in Piazza Garibaldi. The structure, 106 metres long with a height difference of 10 metres, has 21 round arches divided into three sections. It is no longer functional, but its arches and majesty never cease to amaze all who visit. You are sure to be stunned by its artistic beauty and the technical precision of its structure that has withstood the passage of time, preserving all its charm over the centuries.

Atrani: a charming, tiny village with an ancient heart Less than a kilometre from Amalfi, Atrani's geographical position makes it a strategic point for exploring the entire Amalfi Coast, of which it forms part. An ancient world in miniature, we are in the smallest Italian municipality by surface area, rich in history that attests to the passage of many peoples. The only town on the Costiera to retain the fascinating atmosphere of a fishing village in the south of Italy, Atrani is distinguished by its handful of small houses that cluster on the hillside from the beach. An inspiring place, then and now The village of Atrani is of Roman origin, at which time it was called Atranum. Afterwards, everyone passed through here: Etruscans, Greeks, Normans, Swabians, French and Spanish, attracted by its position as a vantage point over the sea, along the valley of the river Dragone with the high, impregnable mountains behind it. The landscape has always been the same, and the view is one of the most evocative on the Coast. Take a leisurely stroll through narrow alleyways, courtyards and walkways protected by arches, along the ups and downs of steps that all converge on the sea. This is enough to explore the places most steeped in history. Leave your car behind, and if you feel like a scenic walk, you could walk straight from Amalfi. There is peace in this natural hollow of the Amalfi Coast, protected from noise and traffic. A coffee in the piazzetta Head towards Piazza Umberto I, better known as the piazzetta, and sit down for an espresso coffee in this welcoming spot, looking out towards the sea since it was created as a mooring for boats on stormy days. Visit the Church of San Salvatore de' Bireto overlooking the square: it was first built in the year 1000, although today it is in pure Neoclassical style. It was here that the investiture of the Doges of the Maritime Republic of Amalfi took place. Marvel at the number of small churches in the village, peek inside to admire their paintings and statues. Make sure not to miss the Church of the Carmine and the Church of S. Michele Fuori le Mura, among others. At the trattoria Even the eating establishments here in Atrani exude the scent of history, and a gastronomic stop provides an authentic taste experience in an inspiring setting. Take a seat at a table in the open air, under umbrellas or in the discreet glow of the lighting in the evening. Some taverns set up tables under arches used for sheltering fishermen and storing nets. If you are in the area in July, head to Atrani on the 22nd. On this date, celebrations are held in honour of Santa Maria Maddalena and the typical celebratory dish is the Sarchiapone: cannelloni made from cylinders of long pumpkins, stuffed with minced meat, fried and bathed in tomato sauce. Atrani also has a long tradition in the production of fresh pasta. Come and enjoy it here, flavoured with the bounties of the sea. And at all hours, including the end of the meal, try the pasticciotto. The people of Campania claim that the best is that of Atrani: a crumbly pastry, which in the local version contains a filling of custard and sour cherries. A dip in the bay The sheer cliffs surround a small beach of sand mixed with fine gravel, partly free and partly with bathing facilities, divided in half by the Dragone river. The sea is clear and calm, somewhere between green and blue. Take a swim and look up for a glimpse of the village with its small colourful houses and churches; beyond, you can see the verdant, towering mountain. And head back there in the evening to watch the fishermen set off to fish for lampreys.

Between history and nature, in the heart of Canavese Ivrea lies along the Dorea Baltea and is considered the centre of Canavese. The village is located 50 kilometres from Turin, along the road leading to Valle D'Aosta, on the ancient Via Francigena. In the old town, where the traditional “Battle of the Oranges” is held every year at Carnival, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, built on the remains of a Roman temple, is worth a visit. A few steps away is the Bishop's Palace and the medieval tower known as the “Torrione del Vescovo”. Not to be missed is Ivrea Castle, a fortress built by Amedeo VI of Savoy in the 15th century, now an exhibition venue. Inextricably linked with the history of Olivetti, the city hosts the Laboratorio-Museo Tecnologic@mente where many specimens of calculators, typewriters and personal computers are on display. A ten-minute drive away is the forested area of the Five Lakes. The best known is the swimmable Lake Sirio. A network of paths connects it to the other lakes: Lake Nero, Lake Cascinette, Lake San Michele and Lake Pistono. Where Lake Coniglio once stood arethe so-called Terre Ballerine-Dancing Lands, so called because as you walk through them, the pressure of the footsteps makes the shrubs that grow there tremble. Lastly, we recommend the 16th-century Masino Castle, now a FAI property, surrounded by an immense park where the historic “Three Days for the Garden” horticultural exhibition-market is held twice a year.

The town of Arona is a splendid jewel on the Piedmont shore of Lake Maggiore, in the province of Novara From the lakeside you can enjoy poetic views of Lake Maggiore, and by boat you can reach the characteristic Borromean Islands. The old town centre is a riot of ancient palazzi, churches in a variety of styles and other places of interest such as the Archaeological and Mineralogical Museum in Piazza San Graziano. The heart of medieval Arona is Piazza del Popolo, where the Palazzo del Podestà and the baroque-style Church of Santa Marta (or Church of the Madonna di Loreto) dominate. Those who wish to combine spirituality and contact with nature can make a stop at the Sacro Monte of Arona, dedicated to St Charles Borromeo. A giant statue, the 'San Carlone', which can also be seen from the other side of the lake, is also dedicated to the archbishop of Milan. The municipality is home to the Lagoni di Mercurago Nature Park, a protected area established in 1980 and included among the 'Prehistoric Pile Dwellings around the Alps', declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011. Find out more: https://www.prolocoarona.it/

The ancient "Portus Veneris" was originally a Benedictine colony, with settlements on the three islands opposite (Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto). Later, it became a strategic location during the war between Genoa and Pisa before it was conquered by the Aragonese in the 15th century. Between the 18th and 19th centuries, it was a place of retreat loved by Byron and Shelley. In 1998, Porto Venere, the Cinque Terre and the islands of Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto were recognised as UNESCO World Heritage sites. At first sight, the compact rows of tall, colourful houses are certainly enchanting. A mass of tower-houses, all crowded together. Beyond this wall of colour, from the marina with its boat moorings or from the parallel streets with their tiny shops and homes, you can enter the village itself, with its incredibly narrow and often very steep streets, known as "capitoli". You then proceed along the alleyway (Via Cappellini), that leads to the esplanade in front of St Peter's Church, on the peak of the promontory, built in a striped Gothic style, with a large bell tower for defensive use. You can take boat to reach Palmaria island, with its characteristic vegetation, and Tino island, with its lighthouse and the remains of an abbey.

Vernazza, a small village of great wonders A rocky spur reaching out towards the sea, backed by high cliffs and covered with green hills, home to a village of houses and monuments next to the marina. Introducing Vernazza, among the most authentic villages in the Cinque Terre. The small, colourful houses and moored boats, the prickly pears and cultivated terraces create an enchanting landscape. Venture into one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, for an immersive experience in the pristine Mediterranean landscape. Alleyways and stairways In Vernazza, everything centres around the small harbour and the small square behind it, where the locals rent apartments to tourists. The “carruggi”, the narrow alleyways of Ligurian villages, all branch off from here. We highly recommend taking a stroll among the colourful, towering houses, through courtyards, under porticos and loggias (the perfect spot for a cup of coffee), and along Via Roma, an ancient underground river. An unmissable site in this ancient village, which dates back to the year 1000 and was once used by the Romans as a strategic port, is the Church of Santa Maria d'Antiochia: dedicated to the village’s patron saint, it has mullioned windows overlooking the sea and presents a blend of Romanesque, Baroque and Gothic styles. While the Belforte tower acts as a lookout next to the small port, dominating the town from above is Doria Castle, on a dramatic cliff. Be sure to try the local speciality, Tian di Vernazza: baked potatoes and anchovies flavoured with Mediterranean herbs and lemon zest - the land and sea come together in one unique dish. At a slow pace to contemplate the landscape The entire UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Cinque Terre is dominated by rock and sea, small bays and inlets, and flourishing vegetation. Nature reigns supreme, so the Cinque Terre National Park ask that you explore respectfully, ideally on foot or by train. It’s well worth spreading out a beach towel on the cliffs to the right of the pier or near the harbour. Then, after enjoying a cool dip, it’s time to put on your hiking shoes. You are sure to enjoy the spectacular trek from Monterosso al Mare or Corniglia, two other villages in the Cinque Terre, located either side of Vernazza. The best route is the famous Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Path), which narrows in some places as it enters the woods, while opening up elsewhere to offer breathtaking glimpses of the sea and towering coastline. This circular trekking route climbs up to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Reggio, with its beautiful Romanesque façade. The forecourt is lined with holm oaks, cedars and horse chestnuts, and providing shade is the oldest cypress tree in Liguria, which has thrived for 800 years and counting. The route continues towards San Bernardino before descending back down to the village, past cultivated fields and vineyards, dry stone walls, fragrant Mediterranean scrubland, streams and springs, well-worn ancient mule tracks shrouded in silence, and crisscrossing houses lost in the wilderness. You will find yourself outside civilisation, inside a natural space that regenerates the body and mind.

Manarola, like a colourful painting in the heart of the Cinque Terre The yellow to warm orange houses proudly stand out from the dark cliffs, in a wonderfully bold contrast of colours. Here, perched on top of a high, sheer rock that juts out over the sea, is the peaceful and romantic town of Manarola. The mighty nature of the Cinque Terre National Park is furrowed by paths that mark the perfect routes to admire the vineyards and olive groves on the traditional terraces. In the scenic village At 70 metres above sea level, you can explore the maze of steep, narrow streets enveloped in salty air that branch off from the little square by the sea. The age-old village dates back to the year 1000, when it was chosen for its strategic position as a lookout and defence against Saracen pirate raids. After appreciating the most beautiful churches, including the Gothic church of San Lorenzo, we recommend heading towards the beautiful Belvedere: a scenic lookout over the water that offers breathtaking panoramic views. Be sure not to miss out on the chance to admire the unique Genoese-style “tower houses”, on several floors and leaning against each other. There is no real beach here, but you can go down to the water from the rocks in the marina area. The paths connecting the Cinque Terre Manarola is the hamlet of another village in the Cinque Terre, Riomaggiore, which it is connected to by a beautiful, one-and-a-half-kilometre footpath up the hill that separates the two villages. Another scenic route starts directly from the village and connects Manarola to Corniglia. Here, you will find yourself in the typical “cultural landscape” of the Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You are sure to be fascinated by the terraces built using an ancient Roman technique to cultivate the inaccessible mountain slopes. Olive groves, orchards and vineyards stretch out across the terraces, forming a charming backdrop. Bold cuisine, combining land and sea Manarola's agricultural and seafaring soul is expressed through simple but extraordinary cuisine, where land and sea combine to create fantastic flavours, enhanced by excellent wines. Despite being a small village, it has become a mecca for lovers of good food, thanks to the wealth and quality of its restaurants. The local extra virgin olive oil is superb: delicious on bruschetta or accompanying grilled fish and vegetables, perfectly paired with the Cinque Terre DOC white wines. Ligurian focaccia is recognised as among the best on the coast. You will find countless fantastic restaurants, so take your pick! You can dine in a hillside restaurant, sat among the lemon trees as you admire the scenery from up high, or you can book a table in the village, at one of the delightful stone restaurants among the alleyways or overlooking the sea, towards the harbour. Anchovies, octopus and squid are among the most common seafood delicacies, best preceded by pesto and tomato bruschetta, also a delectable aperitif. Vegetables and herbs fill the Torta Salata Pasqualina Italian Easter pie, and we highly recommend tucking in to some stuffed and fried courgette flowers! A touch of class comes with dessert, accompanied by a glass of well-chilled Sciacchetrà: an age-old precious passito wine from grapes cultivated among terraced vineyards, listed among the Slow Food Presidia. 5 tips for travellers We recommend travelling to Manarola by train and then walking from then on. The Cinque Terre National Park has a complicated road system and there are no large car parks. In the village, make sure to take part in wine tastings and cooking classes: this unique experience will not only be a delight for your taste buds, but also rich in culture. The Cinque Terre Card gives you access to various services, including guided tours among the vineyards of the Manarola Foundation. Be sure to head to the pier where the boats for the Cinque Terre depart. From Manarola, you can explore an enchanting stretch of coastline by sea, taking in all the details of the rugged coastline, including cliffs, caves and coves.

A defensive fortress in the heart of Ravenna Just a few minutes on foot from Ravenna train station, the Rocca Brancaleone is a mighty fortification dating back to 1457, when Venice took control of the city. The building, with its evident military and defensive purpose, was intended to protect the city on the northeast side and stem any internal rebellion. Having passed to civilian use with the unification of Italy, in the 1970s it was adapted into an open-air theatre for concerts, operas, film screenings and festivals, such as the Ravenna Jazz Festival. The fortress is divided into two parts: the fortress proper, where the castle warden resided, and the citadel, which housed the troops stationed there and is now equipped as a children's play area. Above the entrance to the fortress, in the Chapel Tower, you can see two bas-reliefs, one depicting the Lion of San Marco and the other a Madonna and Child. The building consists of eight towers. More specifically, these are: the Torrione della Scala, the Torrione dell'Olio, the Torrione della Munizione, the Torrione della Cittadella, the Torrione di Mezzo, the Torrione dell 'Orto, the Torrione Rotto and the Torre Fiorentina or Torre della Ghiacciaia. Entry to the fortress and garden is free all year round, from 8 am to midnight. You can get there either on foot or via bus lines 2, 3 and 5. If you prefer to travel by car, the area has free and paid parking.

Cagliari’s opera and symphonic theater Inaugurated in 1993, the Teatro Lirico was created as an alternative to the Teatro Civico and the Politeama Regina Margherita. Now, it is Cagliari’s main theater. Home to the foundation by the same name that organizes the concert season for opera and ballet, the Teatro Lirico has a capacity of 1680 seats, a contemporary architectural style built in concrete and glass, and an extension of 5000 square meters. In addition to traditional entertainment, it offers school activities and training workshops, and it also makes its large spaces available for events, conferences and exhibitions.

It is an artificial cave of unique appeal, due to its human ear-like shape. It is 65 metres in length, between 5 and 11 metres wide, and 23 metres in height, narrowing towards the top, almost into a pointed arch. The name was given it by Caravaggio, in 1608, during a visit to the latomia. Legend has it that Dionysus used the cave as a prison, so that he could listen from above to what the prisoners were saying, even when speaking quietly. In fact, the cave is famous for its extraordinary acoustic properties, capable of amplifying any sound. Simply tear a sheet of paper to appreciate this amazing echo effect.

It is the city's opera house, the preferred venue for opera, ballet and classical concerts since 1827. The theatre was damaged during the Second World War and was only rebuilt in 1987. The new building was designed by Ignazio Gardella, Aldo Rossi and Fabio Reinhart. The restoration project has restructured the vestibule of the old theatre, and the western arcade with its embossed ceiling, the work of Carlo Barabino (1826-31). Behind it is the 1990 building, surmounted by a glass cusp, which is illuminated during performances and is now one of the characteristic features of the Genoa skyline. The stage apparatus includes four mobile platforms, activated by sophisticated technology.

Opera, symphonic music and theatrical performances in Cosenza The Alfonso Rendano Theatre can be found in the historic centre of Cosenza in Piazza XV Marzo and takes its name from the well-known pianist and composer Alfonso Rendano. With its 19th-century Neoclassical style and its pictorial and stucco decorations surrounded by red velvet, the theatre is the only one of its kind in Calabria, with a seating capacity of around 800 and three tiers of boxes. Venue of the opera, symphonic and theatre seasons, it also hosts a variety of cultural events and performances each year.