Welcome To Italy
There’s a Fountain of Wine:
In the town of Caldari di Ortona, there is a public fountain that dispenses free wine 24/7. It's maintained by a local vineyard and is meant to refresh pilgrims on their way to the Ortona Cathedral.
Home of the Longest Tunnel of Trees:
In Tuscany, there is a cypress tree-lined road known as the Viale dei Cipressi that stretches for about 4 kilometres (2.5 miles) in Bolgheri. It’s one of the longest and most picturesque tree tunnels in the world.
A Pyramid in Rome:
There is a pyramid in Rome known as the Pyramid of Cestius. Built around 12 BC as a tomb for a wealthy Roman magistrate, it’s a lesser-known landmark that showcases the influence of ancient Egyptian culture on Rome.
The World’s Oldest University:
The University of Bologna, founded in 1088, is considered the oldest university in continuous operation. It set the standard for higher education and academic structure in Europe.
Italy Once Had a King for Only 36 Days:
King Umberto II, nicknamed the “May King,” reigned for just 36 days in 1946 before Italy abolished the monarchy by referendum.
Blue Grotto's Hidden Entrance:
The Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra) on the island of Capri has a tiny entrance. Visitors have to lie flat in small boats to enter the cave, where sunlight passing through the water creates an otherworldly blue reflection.
Discover Rome
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Rome Has More Fountains Than Any Other City:
Rome is home to over 1,500 fountains, ranging from the grandiose, like the Trevi Fountain, to smaller, less famous ones scattered throughout the city. These fountains have been a symbol of the city's wealth and access to fresh water since ancient times.
Layers of History:
Rome is sometimes called "The City of Layers" because it has been built upon over centuries. Underneath the modern streets, there are layers of ruins, buildings, and artefacts from different periods, including Roman, Medieval, and Renaissance times.
Trevi Fountain Tradition:
The Trevi Fountain is famous for its tradition of coin throwing. Legend has it that if you throw a coin into the fountain over your left shoulder with your right hand, you will ensure a return trip to Rome. An estimated €3,000 is thrown into the fountain every day, and the money is collected to fund local charities.
Seven Hills of Rome:
Rome was originally built on seven hills: Aventine, Caelian, Capitoline, Esquiline, Palatine, Quirinal, and Viminal. These hills were the geographical heart of the ancient city and are still an important part of Rome’s topography and history today.
The Pantheon’s Dome:
The Pantheon in Rome has the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome, with a central opening (oculus) that serves as the building's only light source. Built around 126 AD, it's one of the best-preserved ancient Roman buildings and is still used as a church today.
The Roman Forum: The Roman Forum was the centre of public life in ancient Rome. It was the site of elections, public speeches, criminal trials, and gladiatorial matches. Today, it’s a sprawling ruin of architectural fragments and archaeological excavations that offers a glimpse into ancient Roman society.
Explore Naples
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The Birthplace of Pizza: Naples is widely recognized as the birthplace of pizza, particularly the Margherita pizza, which was invented in the late 19th century. The classic Margherita, topped with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, is said to represent the colors of the Italian flag.
Mount Vesuvius:
Naples is located near Mount Vesuvius, one of the most famous and dangerous volcanoes in the world. Vesuvius is best known for its eruption in AD 79 that destroyed the ancient cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum, burying them under ash and preserving them for centuries.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site:
The historic centre of Naples is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its rich history, unique culture, and significant architectural landmarks. It’s one of the largest historic city centres in Europe, with a continuous urban history dating back more than 2,800 years.
Underground Naples: Beneath the bustling streets of Naples lies a vast network of tunnels, catacombs, and ancient Roman aqueducts. The Napoli Sotterranea (Naples Underground) offers a glimpse into the city’s complex underground history, which includes everything from ancient Greek and Roman ruins to World War II air-raid shelters.
The Spaccanapoli:
The Spaccanapoli is a long, narrow street that cuts through the heart of Naples’ historic centre. Its name means "Naples splitter," as it divides the city into two parts. Walking down Spaccanapoli offers a vibrant experience of Neapolitan life, with its churches, shops, and street food.
Vibrant Street Life and Markets:
Naples is famous for its lively street life, bustling markets, and vibrant atmosphere. The city's streets are filled with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to artisan crafts, and neighbourhoods like Quartieri Spagnoli are known for their authentic, unfiltered Neapolitan character.
The Joys Of Florence
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Birthplace of the Renaissance:
Florence is widely considered the cradle of the Renaissance, a period of great cultural change and achievement that began in Italy during the 14th century. It produced some of the most important artists, thinkers, and writers in history.
Home of the Medici Family:
The powerful Medici family ruled Florence for much of the Renaissance. They were great patrons of the arts and helped to finance many of the city's most famous landmarks, such as the Uffizi Gallery and the Pitti Palace.
The Ponte Vecchio:
This medieval stone bridge is one of Florence's most iconic landmarks. It’s the only bridge in Florence that survived World War II intact and is lined with shops, traditionally jewellers and goldsmiths.
Florentine Republic:
Florence was once an independent republic, a political entity that played a significant role in the development of democratic governance in Europe. It was one of the wealthiest and most influential cities during the Middle Ages.
Florence's Historic Centre:
The historic centre of Florence is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its artistic, architectural, and cultural significance. Walking through its streets feels like stepping back in time to the days of the Renaissance.
Birthplace of Dante Alighieri:
The famous poet Dante Alighieri, known for his epic poem The Divine Comedy, was born in Florence in 1265. His work had a profound impact on the development of the Italian language.
Fashionable Milan
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Fashion Capital of the World:
Milan is one of the leading global fashion capitals, known for its high-end fashion houses and designers such as Prada, Versace, and Armani. The city hosts Milan Fashion Week twice a year, attracting top designers, models, and fashion enthusiasts.
Economic Hub:
Milan is the financial and economic capital of Italy, with the Italian Stock Exchange (Borsa Italiana) located in the city. It’s also a major hub for finance, media, and commerce.
Innovative Architecture:
Milan is known for its cutting-edge architecture, including the Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest), a pair of residential towers covered in trees and plants. This innovative design aims to reduce air pollution and improve urban living conditions.
Home of Panettone:
The traditional Italian Christmas cake, panettone, originated in Milan. This sweet bread loaf, often filled with raisins and candied fruit, is now enjoyed worldwide during the holiday season.
Cultural Melting Pot:
Milan is one of Italy's most diverse and cosmopolitan cities, with a significant population of immigrants from around the world. This diversity is reflected in the city’s vibrant food scene, cultural events, and daily life.
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II:
This grand shopping arcade, located next to the Duomo, is one of the oldest shopping malls in the world. Its stunning glass and iron architecture make it a must-see attraction in Milan.
And Don't Forget Venice
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City of Canals:
Venice is famously built on a network of 118 small islands connected by over 400 bridges and 150 canals. The canals serve as the main roads of the city, with boats and gondolas being the primary mode of transport.
Gondolas and Gondoliers:
The iconic gondolas of Venice are hand-crafted boats traditionally used for navigating the narrow canals. Becoming a gondolier requires rigorous training and a license, and the profession is often passed down through generations.
St. Mark’s Basilica:
St. Mark’s Basilica, located in Piazza San Marco, is one of the most famous and stunning cathedrals in the world. Its ornate design features a blend of Byzantine, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture, and it is adorned with gold mosaics and precious stones.
Venice Carnival:
The Venice Carnival is one of the most celebrated and historic festivals in the world, known for its elaborate masks and costumes. This annual event dates back to the 12th century and includes parades, balls, and performances.
Rialto Bridge:
The Rialto Bridge is the oldest and most famous of the four bridges spanning the Grand Canal in Venice. Originally built in 1591, it was the only way to cross the Grand Canal on foot for nearly 300 years.
Sinking City:
Venice is famously sinking, a phenomenon that has been occurring for centuries. Rising sea levels and subsidence have led to increased flooding, particularly during the high tide season known as “acqua alta.”
