Epiphany & Adoration of the Magi: The last of the winter holidays in Italy
From Epiphany in Italy and the beloved Befana tradition to Renaissance masterpieces of the Adoration of the Magi at the Uffizi, this story weaves together art, faith, and living Italian culture.
All Saints’ Day in Italy: Remembering the Past, Honoring the Present
It is finally fall in Italy! Temperatures are dropping, the countryside has that soft golden light unique to this time of year…
The Museo del Duomo’s Baptistery Doors – Past Reflections Revisited in 2025
More than ten years have passed since I first wrote about the long-awaited return of Lorenzo Ghiberti’s “Gates of Paradise” to public view…
Pici: Tuscany’s Most Beloved Hand-Rolled Pasta
When traveling through southern Tuscany, sooner or later you will find yourself served a steaming plate of pici, a rustic pasta that might look like “fat spaghetti”…
A Refreshing Summer Walk in the Boboli Gardens
Florence’s Historic Outdoor Escape A Cool Step Back in Time Summertime in Florence can be warm—let’s be honest, very warm—but that doesn’t mean you have to retreat indoors. One of my favorite ways to escape the heat and enjoy a peaceful walk is by heading into the Boboli Gardens. This is not your typical English […]
The Bargello Museum
8 Hidden Collections to Discover This Summer The Bargello is a museum that rewards curiosity. This summer, take the time to explore its quieter corners—you’ll find treasures to cherish long after you leave its ancient walls. The National Museum of the Bargello is a jewel box. From the outside, its fortress-like walls and crenellated tower […]
Visiting Napoli
A Hidden Treasure Beyond the Chaos Discovering the Soul of Southern Italy Naples, or as the locals say, Napoli, is a city that often sparks strong reactions. Some travelers bypass it completely, making a beeline for the Amalfi Coast, while others fall in love with its energy, history, and culinary delights. It’s a place where […]
Irises in Florence
A Flower Steeped in History Florence is a city of art, culture, and breathtaking beauty, but did you know that it also has a special connection to one of the most elegant flowers in the world? The iris, with its delicate petals and vibrant colors, has a deep-rooted history in Florence. This flower is not […]
Cinque Terre
Discovering the Cinque Terre: A Guide to Sustainable Tourism Nestled along Italy’s rugged Ligurian coastline, the Cinque Terre (translated as “Five Lands”) comprises the picturesque villages of Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its colorful cliffside houses, terraced vineyards, and breathtaking sea views. However, the […]