Silvi
Marina, just a few miles away of
Pescara extending to the south as far as the Piomba river, and
to the north to the Cerrano tower, is one of the most famous
seaside resorts in Abruzzo, with its fashionable villas of the
late
nineteenth - early twentieth centuries, and also is famous for
its liquorice manufacturing industry. Its territory includes
the two centers of Silvi Paese or Silvi Alta and Silvi Marina
along the coast! There are two hypotheses on the origin of the name Silvi; some scholars derive it from a small temple dedicated to "Silvano", an Italic god protector of flocks and shepherds; others instead from the Latin "Silva", meaning forest. In its territory remains of a Roman settlement were found. Under the Romans, the history of Silvi followed the events of nearby Atri, always faithful to the Empire Capital. After the Samnite wars the Romans started to strengthen the Adriatic coast choosing the hill in Silvi as a natural garrison on the sea.
Among the 13th and 14th a defence system based on day and
night signals through fires and smoke was developed to face
the frequent landings of Turks and pirates. In the 14th
century the medieval borough of Castrum Silvi, became a
fiefdom of the abbey of San Giovanni in Venere, then passed
under the jurisdiction of the Acquaviva family, dukes of
Atri. At the time Silvi Marina was a small poor port of
fishermen, who lived in poor cabins and were almost only
engaged in fishing, which at that time used to offer an
exceptional variety of sea food. Silvi remained a fiefdom of
Atri until the arrival of Napoleon, who in 1806 abolished
feudalism. With the Unification of Italy Silvi obtained its
first mayor.
In 1863 the building of the railway station helped the development of the "Marina" of Silvi, which little by little took a different aspect, thanks mostly investments in the tourist sector. In 1931 the municipal seat was moved from Silvi Paese to Silvi Marina, which within a few years turns into an important seaside resort, becoming the administrative center of all the territory, from the coast to the surrounding hills.
medieval borough perched on top of a hill, 250 meters above
sea level, once a defense garrison against the Saracens,
offers enjoy a spectacular sight on the whole Central
Adriatic, sweeping from the Yugoslavian coast to Monte
Conero and the Tremiti Islands. 
Church
of San Salvatore, in Silvi Paese, with a fine
bell-tower, dated 1252, was
probably
begun two centuries earlier. 
origin from a legend derived possibly from of one of the many Muslim
raids. The Saracens landed at Cerrano marina,church
bells calling all the population to the defence. Before the barbarians
reached the doors of the village, a courageous young man, with a big
lighted torch, went out of the walls and faced them on the road. The
torch light deceived the invaders who thought they were being attacked
by a multitude of people; in order to keep the goods they had already
sacked, they gave up the enterprise and ran away. The miracle is
remembered with the celebration of the feast of the "Ciancialone".
of
olive trees and beautiful flowers. A landscape of unspoiled nature,
inviting you to take relaxing walks or rides on bicycles or
horseback. From the
highest peaks of Gran Sasso, of Majella and of Velino to the
golden coastline, the nature in here makes a fascinating
picture full of variety which is possible to appreciate in any
moment of the year. 
mains
untouched
and where the white beaches and their crystal clear water
reflects the light of the sun. This ideal position
allows for excursions within a range of 80km where you can
visit National Parks of Gran Sosa, Majella,
Abruzzo, and Sirente Velino, historic cities of Bomba, Castel
del Monte, Atri, Bombinaco,
Alba
Fucens, and Fonte Cerreto, religious sites of Sa
n
Pellegrino, Santa Maria dell'Assunta, Santa
Maria in Piano, and San Giovanni, the untouched nature of the
Termiti islands and other breathtaking open spaces where
walking brings wellbeing for both the body and the mind.
oasis,
the nature in Abruzzo is today rightly protected and it can be
easily visited by singles or groups. Fill your lungs with
healthy air and enjoy the sensation of pleasant
well-being-something you will remember for a long time.
summer. A seductive mix, enriched by the numerous amenities
provided by the beach services and refreshment bars and
restaurants, make Silvi Marina an oasis of relaxation and
enjoyment. 
Silvi
offers fun and entertainment
from the first light of the
day right through until well into the night. Indulge in a game
of mini-football, shoot some hoops on a basketball court,
rally around in a game of tennis, spike a volley-ball, set
sail on soft seas, glide through glassy water in a canoe,
wind-surf across turquoise waters, make waves in a jet ski,
snorkel through vast new worlds, ride a horse over lush green
hills, putt around on the greens of a golf course, hike in the
parks, or just bask in the waves of crystal clear waters
isine
for every Italian region, and for anyone who wants to try the
flavors of the Abruzzi, One must come to eat at one of the
restaurants in Silvi. The cuisine of Abruzzo is rich in flavor
and has a very long tradition. The secret lies in the
preparation of dishes and choice of raw materials. As well as
the broad selection of regional wines that always compliment
the food, from the sea to the mountain passes, from th
e
typical traditional marine products of the ancient mountain
shepherds. 
ontroguerra.
An excellent extra-virgin olive oil is produced also in the
area. At Silvi you can try a set of different flavors, which
are structured around a few dishes, a cuisine
is strongly linked to its territory, rich flavors and gentle.
Together with the local food specialities and fares Foodies
and Wine enthusiasts will be in their seventh heaven amid the
local production. Food festivals to wet your appetite are
many during the summer, often organized together with the
exhibition and sale regionally grown wines.
Amongst
the Italian regions, Abruzzi is probably the one which best
maintains a culinary art independent of outside influences and
whose more characteristic products better retain its
traditions, rites, mysteries and the magic of its culture.
Saffron is a vegetable aroma which has its Italian birthplace
in Abruzzi, but strangely enough, is not used at all in the
local cuisine. A highly prized quality of saffron, with a very
distinct flavour,
is produced in the province of Aquila and is exported because
it cannot be used in its natural state, and is then refined
and mixed with other types of a lesser quality. In Abruzzi,
there are no establishments adapt for carrying out this
processing, and so the saffron originating in the mountains of
the Abruzzi is used for flavouring Milanese risottos, Spanish
paellas and French bouillabaisses. 
The
Abruzzo region serves a large selection of fresh fish dishes
like "carpaccio di polpo" (raw polyp), "orecchiette con
gamberi e zucchine" (typical regional pasta with prawn and
courgettes), fish salad, "risotto alla pescatora" (rice with
many types of fish), "tonnarelli alla spigola", "spaghetti con
le sarde", "coccio al guazzetto" (a very good fish sauce with
bread served in a typical plate), "scampi alla griglia"
(grilled fish). 
ly
"wine experts" like Marco Valerio Marziale, and Ovidio showed
appreciation for the wines of the "Valle Peligna". The most
widely produced varieties of grapes grown in Abruzzo are the
Montepulciano, Red Sangiovese, Trebbiano, Malvasia, and White
Cococciola. In recent years, other precious varieties, such as
Chardonnay, Pinot, Sauvignon and Cabernet, have become
increasingly cultivated, but on relatively small areas of
farmland. Grape production in Abruzzo is currently at about
500,000 tons per year, which yields an average of 3.8 million
hectolitres of wine.
ature, Silvi offers
its guests along with a wonderful sea, a paradise on earth:
the "Terme di Caramanico", "Terme di Popoli" and the "Raiano".
These spas are famous for their sulphurous waters, rich in
hydrogen sulphide, therefore, very useful for the treatment of
rheumatic diseases, nerve, skin and gynecological problems.
The thermal waters are particularly u
seful
for those suffering from pancreatic diabetes
and deafness. 
great climate, breezy in summer and dry in winter, and has
been known since the 16th century for the healthy properties
of its spas. Also a destination for nature and art lovers,
being in the heart of the Maiella Park, offers many
itineraries immersed in the forests leading to the hermitages
of St. Peter Celestine, or to admire the ancient
shepheards' huts in stone called Tholoi.
Gisella"
have a high content of sulphured hydrogen at a temperature of
10,5 degrees Centigrade and are channeled into the spa plants
for hydropinic therapy and other treatments. Also the
low-mineral water of the spring "Pisciarello" has healthy
diuretic effects, and recently a center for beauty care was
established. The spa season goes from April to November.
millions
of tourists every year. The fairs are an important means
of communication for businesses of every commodity sector, are
a key time to keep up and touch what's new on the market,
exchange views and ideas with the industry and establish
contacts. Fantastic food, wine and hand made goods are the big
draw, inticing visitors from around the world.
The
ideal
location, Silvi is the ideal
venue to
accommodate during any summer exhibitions,
such as: "The Exhibition of Silvi", "The Multiethnic Market",
"The
Craft
Fair".
e
showed amusing daily scene, certainly eccentric for the eyes
of the tourist The strong ties with the traditions emerge
during the coloring festivals and the folk performances
which take place everywhere in the region.
cient
civilizations, historic churches and fascinating religious pageants and
ceremonies provide
a return to the past and put you in contact
with the basic ways of life once lost but recreated in these
places. Romanesque churches and castles, ancient necropolis
and museum, hermitages and middle-ages burgs.
rting
in the 1950s and continuing through the 1970s, small scale
farming in Italy became less profitable, and, as one might
predict, farmers abandoned many farms to search for work in
larger towns. But
Italians
value highly the traditions and produce of small scale production
of food, and by 1985 a law defined the use of
Agriturismo as a style of vacationing in farm house resorts ,
and thus
many abandoned buildin
gs
and estates
were restored.. These agritourismo
allowed the small farmer
to augment the
income from the farm, and for vacationers to sample
the bounty of a rural life in Italy.
locally.
Some will allow
the guest to actually participate in the activities
surrounding the farm. Despite the rural nature
of the lodging, one might expect a rustic experience; yet many
agriturismo feature rather luxurious accommodation as well as
swimming pools. 
ran
Sasso d'Italia which means Great Stone of Italy is a mountain
located in the Abruzzo region of central Italy. The group of
the Gran Sasso is situated between the soft basin of the river
Vomano in the north and the flowing river Aterno-Pescara in
the south. The Gran Sasso forms the centerpiece of the Gran
Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park which was established
in 1993. It
has an area
of 2,014 square kil
ometres.
The terrain is predominantly mountainous and holds
the highest mountains
in continental Italy south of the Alps and is
part of the Apennines, the mountain range that runs the entire
length of the Italian peninsula. While frequented by skiers in
winter, and mountain climbers and hikers in other seasons, the
Gran Sasso is remarkably free of tourists despite its
proximity to Rome. This is especially true in summer with most
Italians preferring beach vacations and foreign visitors more
likely to visit the mountains of northern Italy. So if you are
looking for some quiet time with nature, then this is the
place to be.
tmosphere.
They are not particularly high, not particularly extensive but
the soul of Abruzzo can be found there. In ancient times this
was the territory of the Goddess Maia. Through the medieval
period it became a place of prayer and retreat. To protect the
flora and fauna of the hills, the Majella National Park was
established in 1991. There is tremendous b
iodiversity
from vast beech groves and rare plants unique to the area such
as the Apennine Edelweiss, the Sabine Juniper, the Apennine
Gentian and the Majellense Violet. But the real
secret to the zone are the deep valleys, caves, gorges and
grottoes. These are real cavemen's caves and some of Italy's
earliest inhabitants survived here.
he
park contains about 500 kilometers of hiking paths through the
mountains, cave paintings in Grotta S. Angelo and Grotta del
Cavallone (the latter being one of the deepest caves in Europe
open to the public). Many tourist centers are located in
the park. The main peak of the Majella is Mount Amaro at 2795
m, but there are at least thirty other summits over 2,000
metres in height including Mount Acquaviva (2,737 m), the Cima
delle Murelle (2,596 m) and Mount Focalone (2,676 m). 
t
also in history, culture, traditions, and heritage coming from
a past which contributed to shape the identity of this
territory and its community, whose signs are still well
preserved and evident. Being a passing area and natural link
between the Adriatic and Tyrrhenian Seas, the Park has been
inhabited since ancient times, as evidenced by the numerous
archaeological findings disseminated on good part of the territory.
In medieval times,
it held a strategic role for the defence and the
militar
y
control, which has
influenced the landscaping and architectural planning
of the Park,
where you can admire fortified villages, sight
and
control towers, castles, roman bridges. It was also a place of
spirituality, as evidenced by many religious buildings and
convents, simple rural churches placed in contexts splendidly
isolated
and mystical
and
miraculous
traces left by personages like Celestine V,
St. Erasmus, St. Francis
of Assisi who crossed or paused
on this territory, but who continue to live thanks to the
evocative folk festivals and traditions that the local
community, with pride, continues to promote. Do not forget the
numerous visits and walks that Pope John Paul II made on these
mountains. 
ns
here are not as tall as the Alps, reaching only 2000 meters,
but the Appennines have merits of their own. From here the
narrow and rugged Gorges of the Sagittario river begin.
Attached to the mountain are tunnels bored into the solid rock
with the stream that roars down beside. At the top the quiet
waters of the Lake of Scanno mirror the surrounding
peaks. The side
of the park are marked by deep gorges and roaring creeks.
Streams run through the valleys forming picturesque waterfalls
and caves. Stric
ken
by the beauty of these places Dutch painter MC Escher and
French photographer. The park’s 44,000 hectares bristle
with wildlife. Grazing horses, white abruzzese sheep-dog
packs, herds of chamois (hoofed, goat-like animals with
horns), and aloof marsicano brown bears are the current
proprietors of abandoned castles and pre-Roman ruins. The park
hosts the only bears surviving in central Italy. The bears are
said to be meek vegetarians—not dangerous to humans. Though
the wild creatures and landscapes are diverse, the park’s
human inhabitants are unified in their unfailing warmth and
generosity. One of the nicest treks to be enjoyed on foot,
mountain bike, or horseback. 
ological finds and of mosaic
flooring of the Roman age, testifies a continuity of
settlements in this village. The first written testaments date
back to the XII century. At at center of this village is a
castle named after the Baglioni's family.
and vine clad hills. North of the beach is the rocky coast of Punta
Cavaluccio, with the distinctive Trabocchi can be seen, ideal for
canoeing. The town is split, like many coastal towns, into two parts –
the lido or beach resort and the original old town on a hill above the
lido. Slightly inland, therefore, you can pay a visit to Fossacesia in
the hills, and the Cistercian Abbey of S.Giovanni in Venere. Also,
about 2 Km from the Val di Sangro exit on the A14 there is the new
“Marina del sole” Harbour. Regarding public transport, in 2006 a new
rail link was created between Pescara and Vasto, which passes
Fossacesia on the coast.
maintains
its unique character and warmth as a typical real Italian city. The
city is based on rolling hills which steadily grow higher as you head
towards to the mountain. In Lanciano there are a wide range of shops,
restaurants, coffee bars and modern amenities such as swimming pools,
bowling alleys, shopping centres, bingo theatres, football stadium,
etc. There are also some unique historical and architectural buildings
and churches and there is a world famous Eucharistic miracle housed in
Lanciano.
an
been seen from the Passeggiata Orientale, an impressive scenic road
where on one side you can see green countryside and the town, and on
the other there are wide curved sandy beaches (Lido Riccio and Lido
Saraceni) but also rocky stretches and amazing inlets, ideal for
canoeing. Ortona has pubs, restaurants, shopping and spectacular sea
views. In Ortona it is possible to spend a day on broad a fishing
boat, where you can help the crew, plunge in Adritatic sea, sun bathe
on the bridge and have lunch other sights are “Eremo d’Annunziano”,
Majella mountain and some characteristic Adriatic beaches. Regarding
public transport, in 2006 a new rail link was created between Pescara
and Vasto, which passes Ortona.
Vito
Chietino was named after its patron saint, the young Vito, a Christian
martyr in the 4th century. It is a beautiful sea side resort on the
Adriatic Sea, with 360 degree views of mountains and sea front. It is
part of the beautiful recent union of the“Citta della Frentania” and
the “Costa Dei Trabocchi" historical places.. 
spended
above the sea for fishing. Gabriele D'Annunzio, the poet and military
hero of the Italian Risorgimento or the Italian Resurgence. called
these constructions: colossal “spiders".. In Vallevň, just outside San
Vito, there is the home of the Documentation Centre on Trabocchi,
where guided tours of the Trabocchi can be arranged.
its amazing views and the charm of its coastline, full of many hidden
spots and mysteries. The port of San Vito is quite ancient, it dates
back to more than 2,000 years ago. The fairy tale atmosphere of
San Vito Chietino is evident when you realize that the village seems
to be floating on water, lying on a hill that goes to the sea, with an
aristocratic detachment from the surrounding landscape. A
picturesque and pleasant small town in Abruzzo, in the province of
Chieti, on the Adriatic Sea. It is near and well connected to the
mountains, to the Parks of Abruzzo, to the ferries for the Tremiti
Islands and Croatia.
This building could be older than the rest of the complex:
legend, in part supported by a document from the end of the
8th century, tells of how Carlo Magno, who in that period
stayed in Abruzzo, had a dream with a vision asking him to
build the church in honor of San Pellegrino.
The condottiere
decided to donate the land to the Farfa Abbey to fulfill the
wishes expressed in the dream. The little church appears
extremely plain and simple from the outside, while inside you
will find a cycle of the most spectacular frescoes in Abruzzo:
all of the walls and vault of the church, more than 470 sq.
meters, were totally frescoed with sacred historic episodes:
the childhood of Christ, the passion, the final judgment, the
life of San Pellegrino.
al
times and particularly in the mid-sixteenth century, is best
known for the fact that they keep one of the most important
cycles of paintings of the fifteenth Abruzzi. L 'internal
fact, rebuilt at the end of the thirteenth century Burgundian
style, contains a fresco in the counter-Judgment of monumental
proportions, unfortunately missing a large portion of painting
on the wall to the right of the main entrance. Inside there is
a special 14th century painting, featuring The Last Judgement.
This is the rare witness of ancient beliefs that represent the
difference between the Catholic religion and some other
eastern ones. The work, widely considered the third decade of
the fifteenth century, was probably created as a result of a
restoration undertaken in 1429 and a special painting
technique, similar to 'encaustic, that the colors in the hot
melted wax to create most brilliant color effects.
a.
This very ancient Benedictine retreat has a richly decorated façade
and a lovely cloister with slender sculpted marble columns. The
medieval church, with three soaring naves separated by graceful
arches, was frescoed in the 12th century by a local artist. The church
has the typical structure of the Cistercian basilicas, with a nave and
two aisles separated by ogival arches and wooden ceiling. The main
façade is characterized by a large marble portal (called Portale della
Luna, "Moon portal"), decorated with high-reliefs and other re-used
material. On the southern side are the Portale delle Donne ("Women's
Portal"), also with marble decorations, and the bell tower, which is
now shorter than originally and which was also used as a defensive
structure. Opposite to the façade are three apses, with arcade
decorations and mullioned windows of Arabic influence. In the
interior, the apses are decorated with 13th century frescoes. Under
the high altar is the crypt, with Roman columns. Under the main
entrance is another room, which was carved out in the 13th century
from the apse of the Palaeo-Christian structure.
covered by a wonderful pine forest in Pino d'Aleppo; the
island of S. Nicola, the administrative, historical and
religious capital; the island of Caprara the distant and
uninhabited Pianosa and some rocks amongst which “il
Cretaccio” and “la Vecchia”. Here you will find the true
beauty of the coastal formations such as rocks (Scoglio
dell'Elefante), isolated crags (I Pagliai) and natural arches
(l'Architiello). Then there are also the mysterious caves:
Grotta delle Viole with its vertically rocks, Grotta delle
Rondinelle, Grotta del Sale where the smuggled salt was
hidden, the Grotta del Bue Marino, 70 m in length and the
ancient refuge of the monk seal with the overhanging high
cliff called Ripa dei Falconi where the Eleonora's falcon, the
Peregrine and the Cory's Shearwater nest. On S. Domino there
are some Diving Centres where, amongst other things, you can
book a guided tour both around the Islands. However, the
Tremiti islands are not only sea. A visit to S. Nicola means a
trip back into the past: just by looking at the walls of the
Fortress you can re-live the history of a warring abbey
struggling against the Saracen or Dalmatian pirates. 
getation.
The special feature of Roccascalegna is its castle rising on a
rock of limestone, which is connected to a bloody event: the
murder of the most cruel, devil-like, violent baron of the
castle, Corvo de Corvis, killed by the people of the village
in his own castle. Historically, the Baron was at times
identified with Annibale Corvi or with Carrafa family, but in
truth his existence is enveloped in the legendary mist of past
times. 
The
basin is not particularly deep near the tributary, (not far
from Villa S.Maria ) and its waters are of good quality making
it an ideal habitat for many kinds of fish. Examples of fish
to be found in the lake are; Chubs, "Carassi", Carps, Royal
Perches, "Scardole", Bleaks, Tenches, Catfish, Eels, Iridic
Trouts and Trouts coming from the tributary. These species are
numerous and many are a good size. The lake is a beautiful
tourist place with the Tourist Centre "Isola Verde."
“Grotta del Cavallone” on the right side. The upper station of
the cable car contains a small restaurant and cafe with an
impressive view from the veranda. Here a very good track,
nearly a single lane road starts. It leads to the foot of the
cliff below the cave. From there a roofed flight of stairs
leads up to the cave entrance. The cave is very impressive in
both size and beauty. It is different to other caves, with
much less speleothems on the walls, which is probably a result
of the altitude and the corresponding temperatures.
d
meaning “Rumbling sound”. This sound came from 3 waterfalls,
which no longer exist. On the nearby Monte Pallano evidence of
a pre-roman settlement has been found, with the ruins of
Cyclopean walls. The name Bomba first appeared in clerical
documents (the “Clerici de Casali Piano”) in 1115. According
to later documents the town was given by Charles of Anjou to a
certain Noble by the name of De Courtenay, In the 1500s,
Bomba's feudal population was about 600 and was owned by
Giovanna Maria Annecchino. There were many feuds, as well as
invasions by the French and Spanish with the governing of the
town passing back and forth and through many different
families. In 1806 feudalism was finally banished, the farmers
took over the lands they were cultivating, and from that
moment on construction of the city as we see it today began
(aquaducts, arches, and buildings were built). The town was
also famous to be the birthplace of two famous Italians,
Silvio and Bertrando Spaventa. Be sure to visit The Baron's
palace, The Church of Santa Maria del Popolo (18th century),
with stucco work by Piazzoli and Terzani and paintings by
Ludovico de Majo, The Sanctuary of San Mauro, Monte Pallano
with ruins of pre-roman civilizations, The (Valle Cupa), a
mecca for many pilgrims.
the summer months when ex-residents come back to visit, or
tourists stop in to see the beauty of the mountainous area.
The town of Castel del Monte was constructed in medieval times
on a site once inhabited by pre-Roman populations. The town
first appeared on historical maps in the 13th century. It
passed through the power of several families, including the
Acquaviva, the Piccolomini and the Medici of Florence. In more
recent history, it was the parting point for many herds of
sheep on their yearly transhumance (Transumanza) journeys to
Puglia and back. Be sure to visit Campo Imperatore, The castle
and it's bell tower, San Rocco church, San Marco church, and
the Madonna del Suffragio church.
s
to rewriting of Art History as it is today! The abbey of Santa
Maria Assunta and the oratory of San Pellegrino were part of
an ancient Benedictine monastic building, and tradition says
that it was founded in 1001 by Odorisio, son of Bernardo di
Valva. The two buildings today are located semi-hidden on a
small wooded hill at the entrance of a cattle house and can be
visited on request. There are few traces of the rest of the
monastic complex. Higher still above the churches & the
village itself stands defiantly the Castle from which all
activity could have been monitored. The castle, whose ruins
still dominate the monastic area, was surely built later: it
was probably constructed in the 13th century to defend the
Monastery of Momenaco and the inhabitants of the village.
eums,
churches and archeological sites dating back to Romanand Greek
times. There are hundreds of the world heritage protected
UNESCO assets and locations now open to tourism. The islands
of Italy have been enjoyed for hundreds of years like Capri,
famous for it's style and romanticism or 'Ischia' known for
its natural thermal spas. 
The movement and influence of the Renaissance art and culture
can be relived today as the piazzas and the cities sit
uneffected by the centuries of change. There are many things
about italy that make it a marvellous place to visit and with
lots of tourist information available you can be assured of an
interesting, unique and memorable stay. There are countless of
things to do and see , you can admire the stylish Italians and
enjoy the 'MODA', the uncompar
ed
italian design reflected in the italian cars, the beautiful
people or experience the pulsating beat of life with it's
noisy street markets and swarms of people buzzing around on
Vespas. For those who want to relax and enjoy the 'cafe
culture', the wine and food and 'people watch' then travel to
Italy is also for you!. There is one certainty, Italy
has something for everyone!
Art
& History
ma
Mountain Villas
n
elo’s
David or rugged up in the latest winter fashion by their own
world-class designers, Florentines and their city never fail
to impress. Already in need of oxygen after admiring their
art, visitors are mesmerised by the vision of locals at
aperitivo time, effortlessly strutting, flirting and evidently
enjoying life. At times it seems nothing much has chang
ed
since the days of the Medici. The jewel of Renaissance
Italy remains essentially what it was – a busy business
centre. Even before the Renaissance was over, the wily
Florentines had to concede that their town was on the wane,
increasingly ignored on the European stage. But they never
forgot their proud heritage and it was rediscovered in earnest
by the rest of Europe from the late 18th century.
Curious
and admiring travellers, particularly the English, descended
on the city as part of their Grand Tour. Ever canny with
currency (after all, Florentines invented the florin, one of
the most successful currencies in history), the locals knew
how to cash in, as they still do, with utter aplomb.
do, all the paths leads to Rome, Rome wasn’t build in a day
etc are not just proverbs profoundly used in literature but
definitely the silent authentication of the fact that once the
most famous city of the world is still sprinkling the golden
dust of its glorious past in the present world and that time
cannot erase the name once the mark of society, civilization,
art, culture and humanity.
Rome
or in Italian Roma is the capital of Italy situated in the
Latium region on Tiber and Aniene river near the Mediterranean
Sea. This ancient city was founded in the year 21 April 753 BC
and spread in an approximate area of 1290 square kilometers.
Nevertheless to mention, the Vatican City a sovereign enclave
within Rome is the seat of the Roman Catholic Church and the
residence of pope. 
Known
with several names like L‘Urbe or the city, Caput Mundi or
head of the world, Citta Eterna or eternal city or Limen
Apostolorum meaning the threshold of apostles the city
definitely generates enough curiosity to a visitor to look
into the galleries of the magnificent history of events and
places of this wonderful city. The marks of the history is
still present in the city in the form of its various
architectural assets signed by the great emperors of Rome who
once changed the history of the globe and created maps of
their reign defying all rules and confronts. 
would be to concentrate on its architecture. The magnificent
city is well represented in the form of monuments that still
reflects the artistry of the era. To start with there should
be any other than the Ara Pacis. A 9 BC altar representing the
scenes Augustus, Agrippa, Julius and Tiberius. The St.Mary
Major Basilica legendarily build in the year 352 BC is the
only roman basilica which has retained its original shape. One
may find fun in the Bocca Della Verita or the mouth of truth
which drags the story that anyone swearing falsely putting his
or her hand inside the mouth of the mask shall not be freed.
Time could not swipe the outlines of the once famous and
really big
race track with a capacity of 200000 spectators, Circo Massimo
still to be felt and appreciated. The artistry of Bernini’s
school can be well depicted in the famous fountain Fontana di
Trevi. Others to mention where one finds the end of the search
for ultimate in arts are the Palazzo della Cancelleria build
by Raffaele riario, the Palazzo di Giustizia, the Piazza di
Spagna, the Piramide Cestia, the Stazione Termini, the Via
Veneto, the Arco di Costantino, the Basilica di S.Paolo, the
Campidoglio, the Colonna Traiana, the Fori Imperiali, the
pantheon, the Piazza Navona, the Teatro di Marcello, the Villa
Torlonia, the Basilica di S.Giovanni, the Basilica di
S.Pietro, the Colosseo, the Foro Romano, the Palatino, the
Piazza del Popolo, the Piazza Venezia, the Terme di Caracalla
and the Vittoriano. 
proverb “when in Rome do as the Romans do” may not be
constrain or barrier for the visitors as at present it stands
as a modern city with a cosmopolitan structure with almost all
the modern forms of accessories available throughout the city.
The combination of ancient culture and modern outlook is how
Rome can be described and can be appreciated for the efforts
taken by the people to preserve this wonderful paradise for
the world.
ice,
La Serenissima, Queen of the Adriatic holds a mystical aura of
a city of canals and palaces. Achingly beautiful, Venice holds
sway as one of the most enchanting places in the world. With
canals, bridges and islands, Venice boasts of myriad magic
festivals, exotic cuisine and magnificent architecture.
orama
of mysterious canals, exquisite buildings and an ambience of
tranquility accompanied by the music of an ever flowing
expanse of water. Built on 117 small islands, Venice holds the
charm of 150 canals, 409 bridges and six sestieri of San
Marco, Dorsoduro, San Polo, Santa Croce, Cannaregio and
Castello. Its main street is its ‘Grand Canal’ which passes
through each of the districts in natural twists and turns
along the length of Venice from the railway station to San
Marco.
and
longer than its canals. As a center of enormous and extensive
trade, Venice was a great sea power with trade relations with
the Mediterranean region and the Far East, holding a supreme
position till the Age of Discovery. The artists and artisans
of Venice were influenced by the talent from the Orient and
they infused this intricate art into their divine creations
especially into their traditional chief occupations of
glass-making and textile industry.
rcello
are amongst the many pieces of an intricate jigsaw puzzle
thrown haphazardly over the shallow stretch of Laguna Veneta.
The slim and slender Lido di Venzia lies to the east and makes
its way 10 Kilometers to the south to another narrow stretch
called Pellestrina, slimming down to the laid-back town of
Chioggia.
stical
and magical, Venice as unique as its ambience displays a
magnificent collection of amazing architecture. The
captivating Ca’ d’ Oro, is structured in the Gothic style
showcasing the Galleria Franchetti whose amazing collection of
tapestries, bronzes and paintings display the style of the
15th and 16th centuries with many works by Titian. 
Venice
with its festive air adds to its celebrations whose ambience
has an eternal air of jubilation and joie de vivre. The Snail
Fest, the Carnivale de Venice, the Children’s Carnival, the
famous masked Vogata, Regata delle Befana, Festa della Sensa,
Sposalizio del Mar, Festa del Redentore, the Venice
International Film Festival, Italy’s version of Cannes, is
held annually in August at the Palazzo della Mostra del Cinema
on the Lido. Art and history blend magically in Venice,
drwaing visitors from all other the world to participate in
the annual festivites. 
tes
the air with the song of its history silently singing a ballad
of love and war. Venezia with its impenetrable silence,
vaporettos, gondolas, dances with grace to its characteristic
tradition of music, lies tranquil in its surroundings of
historical statues, artistic architecture and an ancient
history with myths and secrets hanging as an imaginary
tapestry over an unforgettable, graceful and one of the most
unique places in the world, Venezia.
nto
is the capital city of the province of Trentino. It is a
lovely place just two hours from the Austrian border. It is
culturally Italian with a hint of Austrian influence. It
was founded in the Roman Age at the foot of the Doss Trento a
rocky outcrop on the right of the Adige with the Dolomite
Mountains rising in the near distance. If you walk from Piazza
Battisti you can walk through Roman ruins: gates, roads,
houses. Trento was a roman town of some importance (Tridentum)
and after Goth, Lom
bard
and Carolingian rule it passed in year 1027 from Emperor
Conrad the Salic to the Bishop Princes. It is and has
been an important religious center and the Council launched
the Counter Reformation movement here. Recalling church
history, Trento's medieval cathedral hosted the Council of
Trent (1545-1563), which, by laying theological groundwork for
the Counter Reformation, sought to check the successes of that
radical German monk, Martin Luther. Later, and until the end
of World War I, Trento was part of the Austro-Hungarian
Empire.
Of
particular interest is Via Manci and Via Belenzani as well as
the piazza in front of the Roman-Gothic cathedral
characterized by its rather ponderous 16th-century tower.
Palazzo Geremia, with its frescoed facade is one of Trento's
most beautiful buildings.
lose
links to tradition. Visitors throughout the various seasons
can admire its many folded facets. Cittŕ in giardino" after
the awakening of spring, its tasty products in the autumn
period, kept alive by its historical reenactments during the S
Vigilio festival at the end of June or illuminated by the
"warm" Christmas market lights during Advent.
of the Alps and the Dolomites) and lakes (in particular lake
Garda, known for its mild climate); it is dominated by the
nearby Mounts Bondone (2,170 m.) and Paganella (2,125 m.). The
high craggy limestone buttresses and spires of the Dolomites
soar above the conifer forests and plains surrounding their
foothills. At dawn and dusk their pinkish rock becomes tinted
pastel pink, red, and violet, which is indeed a spectacular
sight. The valleys, woodland, grassland, and small lakes
between the peaks are breath taking. This is why the Dolomite
mountains are famous throughout the world: almost vertical
walls, hundreds of metres high, such as the Sella, the south
side of the Marmolada (3,342 m.), high shar
p
peaks like the Madonna Peak in the Pale di San Martino, and
the needles and towering rock of the very famous Torri del
Vaiolet and the equally renowned Campanile Basso di Brenta,
the Catinaccio, all are examples of the variety of forms and
appearance of these mountains. Monte Bondone, a few kilometres
away from the city, is an important nature reserve of specific
botanic nature that makes this mountain unique. The Botanical
Alpine Garden, one of the most important in the Alps, and the
"Nature reserve of the Tre Cime del Monte Bondone" are tourist
destinations which offer numerous possibilities for walks in
the summer.In the winter it turns into a paradise for ski
lovers and winter sports.
rento
is in an ideal spot for lovers of natural beauty. It is close
to the Val di Genova, (celebrated for its size and natural
state as well as for the Nardis Falls), Madonna di Campiglio,
(renowned Dolomite stop-off in both summer and winter) and
Tovel lake. In extremely hot weather, the lake takes on a
decidedly rosy hue, the result of microscopic algae, which
thrive in high temperatures.
in
a spectacular Alpine environment. The best-known and
best-equipped resorts include Cortina d'Ampezzo, San Martino
di Castrozza, Ortisei, Selva di Val Gardena, Canazei, Moena,
and at the foot of the Brenta group of mountains, Madonna di
Campiglio. 
