Gian Lorenzo Bernini, the baker
Gian Lorenzo Bernini is one of Italy’s most renowned and valued artists, known as the greatest exponent of the baroque style and as an undisputed genius with a wide range of abilities.
His works are...
The social commentary in the rhymes of Trilussa still rings true in Rome today.
“But he’s famous!” goes a voice outside a bar in Trastevere. A footballer? Politician? Big Brother contestant? Film sta...
The dark past of Italy's 'orgy island'
Zannone island near Rome was infamous for orgies in the 1960s.
Zannone, a small Italian island off the coast between Rome and Naples, was once a decadent destination for the rich and famous.
Part...
Its popularity spread throughout western Europe, and in 1569 it arrived in Rome, where Pope Pius V declared it repulsive.
The history of chocolate goes back millennia, but its popularity at Easter is...
With a little leap of the imagination, Rome becomes a giant amusement park.“Its original name is the Flavian Amphitheatre.” The guide points at the Colosseum, once the world’s largest stadium. She the...
Revealing a new secret in Rome: the original marble steps of the Scala Santa.
The modern city of Rome is a complex place for those who live here and especially for those who visit. With its thousands...
Raphael's Transfiguration in the Vatican Museums
The colourful stories behind the final painting by High Renaissance master Raphael.
If every picture tells a story, then The Transfiguration by Raphael on view in the Vatican Museums tells several. T...
Preci: Italy's mediaeval village of surgeons
For hundreds of years, a small village in a remote corner of Umbria produced many of Europe’s most celebrated doctors and surgeons.
The village of Preci lies at the northern end of the Monte Sibillin...
Rome: Piazza Navona's underground stadium
Rome's ancient ruins of the Stadium of Domitian can be visited under Piazza Navona.
As you quietly sip a coffee in Piazza Navona, a pinch of zest is added by the thought of being seated in what once...
Bacon and Freud in Rome exhibition
Rome's Chiostro del Bramante presents Bacon, Freud and the School of London: Works from the Tate.
The term “School of London” was coined by the painter R.B. Kitaj for the catalogue text of the exhibi...
Greccio: home of the world's first Nativity scene
St Francis is usually associated with Assisi, but there are also important sites in Lazio where he left his mark.by Philip Biss
Greek is no longer spoken in upper Sabina, as it might have been more t...
Christmas and New Year in Rome
How to celebrate the Christmas and New Year festive season in Rome.
Christmas is a magical time in Rome, particularly for children. Streets in the historic centre twinkle with traditional street ligh...
A variety of birds can be watched from Roman balconies and gardens.
Apart from their cheerful, colourful appearance and songs, birds are important animals. They help control insect pests and, in fact...
All you need to know about renting an apartment in Italy
Everything you need to know about renting a property in Italy.
For many expats, looking for the perfect housing solution may be frustrating and disappointing unless they understand the laws and reg...
The Myth of San Michele on the Isle of Capri
The dream house of a legendary Swedish doctor and a secret love affair on the island of Capri.
Almost a century ago, The Story of San Michele by Swedish doctor Axel Munthe was a runaway bestseller. T...
