On a quiet stretch of the Mediterranean, just northeast of Italy’s Sardinia, sits the tiny island of Tavolara – often called the “world’s smallest kingdom.” Measuring just three miles long and one mile wide, it’s easy to miss, but this hidden gem is packed with history, beauty, and a little touch of royalty. Rising 1835ft above the sea, Tavolara’s...
READ MOREWhen it comes to skiing in Europe, Italy offers a unique mix of style, substance, and scenery that is all-encompassing and alluring. Home to the vast ranges of the spellbinding Alps and the Dolomites—a UNESCO World Heritage site—Italy’s ski resorts are where alpine fairytales meet world-class adventure. And as the sun dips behind jagged peaks, turn...
READ MOREThe origin of Sciacca’s name is uncertain, as historians have proposed various theories. However, it is commonly attributed to the Latin ex aqua (from water), referencing the town’s rich hydrothermal resources. These include sulfuric, saline-bromo-iodic, bicarbonate-alkaline, medium-mineral waters, and many other varieties. These waters are used fo...
READ MOREStates with strong Italian-American communities exhibit a heightened interest in visiting Italy’s historic landmarks, attending family gatherings, and experiencing traditional winter festivities. This study identifies the top US states most eager to journey to Italy in 2025, driven by heritage ties and the desire to enjoy the festive winter season...
READ MOREItaly is always a popular destination for tourism, but in recent years there has been a growing interest from those with Italian ancestry looking to reconnect with their familial heritage. In fact, 2024 was designated as the year of Roots Tourism in Italy, in an effort to attract Italian descendants back to their ancestral land. Italian Citizenship...
READ MOREIn her book, Adriatico, Paola Bacchia digs down into the culinary culture of Italy’s Adriatic coast, where food is marked by regional differences but unified by the sea. What’s your connection to the Adriatic Sea?My father was born right on the shores of the Adriatic Sea, less than a mile from it. When he was born, his birthplace was in Italy, but...
READ MOREI thought I knew everything there was to know about Italian coffee. I’m a three-cup-a-day man, and my standby is a single shot with a bit of foamed milk: a classic macchiato. When in Rome, I frequent Caffè Sant’Eustachio, where the baristas make a gossamer crema, masking their technique behind a hulking Cimbali machine. In Naples, I make sure to as...
READ MOREThe Rome 2025 Jubilee is shaping up to be one of the most extraordinary events in the city’s history. Known as a Holy Year, the Jubilee is a time of spiritual renewal, cultural celebration, and bustling activity. Whether you’re a pilgrim on a faith-filled journey, a history enthusiast looking to explore Rome’s spiritual legacy, or a curious travele...
READ MOREIf you find yourself in Venice, Italy, and your heart craves the romance of vineyards and stunning wines, there’s a must-do that you simply can’t miss – explore the enchanting Hills of Prosecco. This famous wine region is so close to Venice! I first discovered this beautiful area during my honeymoon in 2023. Here’s my firsthand experience on how to...
READ MOREIn a place with as much history as Italy, it’s common to encounter firsts, whether it’s the first bank, the oldest university or even the first espresso machine. In Bassano del Grappa, about 20 miles from Vicenza at the base of the Monte Grappa hills, you’ll find the first grappa distillery. Farmers had long made stronger alcohol out of grape pomac...
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