Vivere!

Southern Switzerland

2012-01-16T04:45:00.000-05:00

Lugano and the southern Canton of Switzerland borders with Northern Italy. The Lake region as it is known, is a breathtakingly beautiful place. The crystal lakes are surrounded by the lush green pines and in contrast palm trees and exotic flowering plants. The snow capped majestic alps in the background protect this area from the colder winds from the north, therefore they have an ideal micro climate year round.

Just 45 minutes from Malpensa airport, it's worth a little side trip if you are going to be arriving in Milan.

Lugano is a cosmopolitan city with an array of boutiques and small artisan shops. They also have the designer outlet mall "Foxtown". The food is excellent as are the local wines, the area is called the "Tuscany of Switzerland", most wines are not exported so take advantage and taste some of the great Swiss wines.

Holiday Gift Selection

2011-11-23T13:53:00.000-05:00

Holiday shopping in Italy!

We've had many requests for antique jewelry and have found some unique pieces, these 18kt gold Etruscan earrings are just exquisite, the minute workmanship is just incredible-check out the detail on them in these pictures.

The Magic Threshold

2011-10-29T14:44:00.000-04:00

If you land at Malpensa airport in Milan and are going to catch the train, (which now has a direct train to Florence!), you will go through a corridor called "The Magic Threshold". It is located in Terminal 1 and connects to the Malpensa Express railroad station. They refer to it as the glittery new gateway to Milan, the diffused lighting, blue led lights on the floor, and blade of light in the center all set the stage for the intermittent gusts of mist that are produced by an environmentally friendly nebulizer. It has a very surreal and cool feeling to it; it's fun to watch people going through. On the corridor floor as one enters the train station one finds the marker with the words; "every step I have taken in my life has led me here now"

Panno Casentino

2011-09-17T16:34:00.002-04:00

In the Tuscan hills near Arezzo, we drove through the enchanting medieval towns of Casentino. Poppi, Bibbiena, and Stia, all towns brimming with history, art, and tradition. One of our stops was at the Museo del'Arte della Lana in Stia. This wool originates in the '300's. The antique method of preparing this "rustic" fabric which retains body heat and repels the rain was a necessity in the medieval times, but has recently been sought out by fashion designers to create luxurious clothing and accessories.

Very soft and light weight, it can have the unique characteristic "nubby" texture.

The richness of this wool fabric is something that must be felt to be truly appreciated.

The typical colors were the forest green and autumn orange, but recently, under the management of Claudio Grisolini, son of Gabriele, the tradition is carried on, albeit with modern touches. New vibrant colors have been added, along with new creative uses for the fabrics, other than the traditional coats and jackets, local artisans create handbags, shoes and boots blending leather with the wool.

Notable is the harmonious way that the factory has seamlessly integrated the modern technologies with the old. The hydraulic turbines which supply energy to the factory stand out in the center of the piazza as one approaches the current structure.

Moses in Rome

2011-08-04T11:29:00.000-04:00

Rome/ Moses-Michelangelo

Michelangelo’s reputation was well established when he was working on commissioned works by the Vatican. His Moses, at the Church of San Pietro in Vincoli, is a masterpiece well worth a visit. The church is unassuming from the exterior and inside usually it’s not as crowded. It’s a welcome chance to slowly observe the statue in this setting. The Moses statue is perhaps after the “David”, one of Michelangelo’s most superb works of art. The sculpture is hauntingly lifelike, and after finishing the statue, Michelangelo himself is said to have addressed Moses asking him to speak to him. The expression on Moses face seems to capture his mixed emotions of anger and disappointment. Many people wonder about the “horns” coming from Moses’ head, in reality they are meant to represent a radiance or halo. You will often notice this particularity on representations of him.

In the church there are several other interesting works of art by Antonio e Piero del Pollaiolo, Domenichino, e Guercino, as well as the actual “Chains of Saint Peter”. The relic is kept in a gilded gold box underneath the altar. They are said to be the chains that were used when St. Peter was imprisoned, once in Jerusalem and later in Rome. When the chains were discovered and given to Pope Leo the Great the chains miraculously joined together.

The beautiful mosaic of Saint Sebastian from the 7^th century is on the left of the church going towards the altar.

Another statue of Moses can be seen in P.za San Bernardo, called the Fountain of Moses.

This statue was the work of Bresciani, a sculpture who lived in the shadow of Michelangelo. He had been attempting to prove he was up to the challenge of matching, perhaps even surpassing Michelangelo’s ability. He dedicated a long and physically challenging period working on this piece, he felt that the time involved, the meticulous calculations were sufficient to prove, he was just as capable of creating artwork up to his rivals ability.

The work was sculpted completely on a horizontal surface, raising it to its proper position only after it was complete. Once the statue was complete and placed upright, Bresciani realized that his statue was grossly disproportionate. As an artist he felt “sconfitto” and the aftermath was tragic.

Prosecco (the main ingredient in an "Al fresco" dinner)

2011-06-15T23:58:00.001-04:00

Dinner Al Fresco with Prosecco

(It’s summer;….let’s eat outside!)

How wonderful it is to plan a meal around a certain ingredient: I chose Prosecco and incorporated it in all my dishes this evening.
Well for starters I poured myself a nice chilled glass of Prosecco, some nice warm, crusty bread and marinated olives to get my creative juices flowing!
Fresh mussels, crisp romaine lettuce, baby cukes, a creamy but lowfat dressing made with yogurt and prosecco, and the wonderful ultimate summer treat Sgroppino…….

Let’s prepare: Ingredients

Mussels, sautéed with Prosecco-
Fresh mussels rinsed and cleaned
Garlic, olive oil, parsley, salt & pepper, and prosecco
Wash mussels very well, discard any that are not fresh (they do not close when tapped)

Place peeled garlic and chopped parsley in pan with olive oil, heat then add clean mussels. When they begin to sizzle add Prosecco, cover for 5-6 minutes over high heat. Add a bit of salt & pepper, let simmer 2-3 minutes, when the mussels are all open they are ready to serve.

Salad :

Crisp romaine, washed and cut, a peeled and cut cucumber, 1 small tomato, olives, low fat yogurt, fresh chopped herbs (basil, mint, chives, parsley), Evo, salt & pepper:

In a bowl place yogurt, all chopped herbs, salt & pepper, olive oil, and prosecco, whisk well, dress salad before serving. Decorate with chives.

Sgroppino:

Lemon and Mango sorbet,
fresh berries: (blueberries, strawberries, pomegranate)
Vodka and prosecco….
Scoop sorbet in champagne glasses, add vodka and fruit, cover with Prosecco, decorate with lemon slices and fresh mint leaves…
Salute!

Visit to the Castello di Verrazzano in Greve

2011-05-26T01:35:00.002-04:00

sipping wine on the terrace

I just love this place, and always insist on bringing friends for a visit when in Tuscany.

breathtaking views

It is beautiful driving south through the gentle hills of Tuscany on the “Senese”, the country road which brings you from Florence to Siena.

Mid way en route we are in the heart of Chianti Classico, and just before arriving in Greve (the charming small village which is famous for being the birthplace of Giovanni di Verrazzano); we head up a hillside road surrounded by the most incredible countryside views. The Castello di Verrazzano is our destination and we are greeted by the owner Sig. Luigi Cappellini who gives us a tour and tells us the amazing history of the property. The Castle originally built in the VII century was the birthplace of Verrazzano, in the mid 1900’s the Cappellini family completely restored the estate to its original splendor. Today it produces some of the most delightful Chianti Classico, a fact anyone can validate by stopping in for a visit to enjoy a wonderful wine tasting.

safegaurding the goods

beautifully kept Italian gardens

If you will be in Florence I also highly recommend a visit to the “Cantinetta dei Verrazzano”, a fabulous little spot that serves impeccable Tuscan specialties, of course all accompanied by vast selection of the wines from their estate.

LA CANTINETTA in Firenze:
Via dei Tavolini, 18/r

50122 - Firenze

http://www.verrazzano.com/

Primavera Milanese

2011-05-01T16:49:00.000-04:00

Spring is in the air as I walk through the streets of Milano; it seems every terrace or windowsill has flowers and plants bloooming. The bright streams of color are a welcome sight after months of greyness. I really like strolling and observing little architectural details of buildings, it's surprising how much attention is given to even the most hidden parts of the structure.

Here I put together a little assemblage of some lovely views of a residential area in Milano.

Fratelli d'Italia...150 years!

2011-03-24T12:06:00.000-04:00

The festivities continue throughout Italy, the 150th anniversary of the Unity of Italy gives us a chance to celebrate our country with all of it's diversity. The turquoise water from Gallura, snow in the Dolomites, the clear Sicilian sky, green Lombardia, soft Tuscan hills, gentle Adriatic winds....a beautiful postcard.

The work towards unifying Italy began centuries ago, we hear about it from Virgil, Macchiavelli, even Galileo, all foreseeing what was to become a united country. Dante wrote an essay, "De Vulgari eloquentia" where he analyzes the relationship between Latin and what he called the "illustrious vernacular". He points out the importance of having a common language "locutio secundario" but also is careful to give due respect to the different dialects spoken in each region.

http://www.greatdante.net/vulgari.html

http://itacultura.forumfree.it/?t=54585402

Lunch in Oltrarno

2011-03-08T19:45:00.000-05:00

After you spent the morning shopping on the Ponte Vecchio and Borgo San Jacopo, we highly recommend stopping for lunch at Convivium, a small, quaint, but totally charming "osteria" located in the Oltrarno area of Florence. The atmosphere is very chic and relaxing, the food just delectable-I loved my risotto with porcini mushrooms and beef with a luscious Barolo sauce, all accompanied by a perfect glass of Sangiovese. On the ground floor of the historic Palazzo Caponi, you will find food that is expertly prepared, and among the four small dining rooms, try to choose the room that looks on to the kitchen treating yourself to watching the chef prepare your meal. You will also get a view of the bottega, where all the mouth watering specialties are on display, fabulous prosciutto, pecorino cheese, Tuscan country bread, and of course the phenomenal collection of wines. They have olive oil tastings, wine tastings, and can plan private cooking lessons for small groups. The owner is passionate and knowledgeable and enjoys talking about the products they carry and how they use local products carefully prepared by farmers in the Tuscan country side. You can also just stop in to purchase some gastronomic delights to take home and enjoy with a great bottle of wine.

This is a small unassuming place frequented by the locals.

Ristorante "Olio & Convivium"

Via Santo Spirito n. 4 – 50124 Firenze

055.2658198 - 055.2657639

http://www.conviviumfirenze.it

Murano- The island of Glass

2011-01-22T17:34:00.002-05:00

The splendid Venetian island of Murano is a gem in the Adriatic sea. You can easily get there by taking the "Actv" shuttle boats (#41 or 42) from the stop in front of the main train station in Venice.

Well known for the masterful glass creations, it is a dreamy and romantic place to slowly wander through the small streets. Hidden workshops where master artisans make the beautiful glass jewelry, dishes, chandeliers, and sculptures, can be found in the most unlikely places. Ask to step in and watch them at work, most also offer to sell their work.

Don't miss the Glass Museum

http://www.museiciviciveneziani.it/frame.asp?musid=12&sezione=musei,

Must see- 12th century Basilica dei Santi Maria e Donato(fabulous mosaics).

Near the Murano clock in Campo Santo Stefano there is a huge glass sculpture by Simone Cenedese, we happened to find it at dusk, and saw it illuminate-just stunning!

Venini is also well worth a visit, they have a workshop and store. http://www.venini.com/

If you love mosaics like I do make sure you go to Mosaici Dona`. http://www.mosaicidonamurano.com/

Stop in a local bar or trattoria for some Prosecco and a good plate of pasta with seafood.
-Select gifts to take back with you from the various shops, I bought a variety of necklaces, each unique and beautiful.

Buone Feste!!

2010-12-14T17:10:00.034-05:00

People are always asking us for Holiday gift ideas from Italy (of course!), here's a sampling:

$25-$50.00

-Specialty Chocolates and pastries from Tuscany. The delectable almond Ricciarelli from Siena (Paolo Ragghianti), Panforte, or a selection of rich handmade chocolates made by artisans such as Amedei, Slitti, or Andrea Bianchini....
http://www.slitti.it/ http://www.andreabianchini.net/ http://www.profumiditoscana.it/
-Special blend coffee beans from Torrefazione Oke; Sig. Omero oversees the roasting of his small batches of carefully selected blend of Arabica and Robusto coffee. (My favorite is the “tipo bar”, full flavored and so smooth!) Caffe' Oke Borgo San Frediano, Firenze (Oltrarno)
-Any item from the Farmacia Santa Maria Novella the fabulous shop adjacent to the church in Florence,(candles infused with flowers from the Tuscan hills, potpourri made from their unique blend of herbs, spices, and flowers; also beautiful fragrances in their selection of soaps and lotions).

http://www.smnovella.it/

$50.00-$100.00
-Ceramic creamer and/or sugar bowl hand painted with the beautifully traditional Renaissance pattern commonly used by the wealthy Florentine families.
http://www.bottegalastrucci.it/

-Murano glass pendant with a glass beaded collier, each piece is unique, crafted on the island of murano, these necklaces by Antica Murina are stunning.

-Leather gloves from Ponte Vecchio, made from the softest leather, choose from the vibrant colors for an elegant and chic accessory.

$100.00-250.00

-Aged balsamic vinegar, truffles, or a rare vintage wine, for the gourmet who appreciates exceptional food and wine.

- Silk scarves from Ermini or hand embroidered linens from Loretta Caponi’s boutique, also beautifully made children's clothes.

-Bialetti espresso machine-shaped like a giant Moka in fun bright colors; uses bialetti capsules, but unlike other automatic machines, this one also alllows you to use your own ground coffee.

$250+

-A one of a kind 18 kt piece of jewelry from the Ponte-Vecchio goldsmiths

-Suede shawl lined with the softest cashmere, it is the single most versatile accessory for the season, as an elegant cover up for a cocktail dress to a casual look over a turtleneck, jeans and suede boots-ultra chic..

-framed antique print of Florence, Rome, Naples.........

And most importantly don't forget Panettone and a glass of Spumante........

The secret of the Palazzo

2010-07-17T19:06:00.002-04:00

In the center of Florence, the dignified Palazzo Vecchio represents the opulent past. Originally built for the Medici family, it now acts as the Municipal building. The Medici’s were not shy about displaying their wealth, as is apparent upon entering in the main courtyard. This area is often used for cultural and social events, art exhibits, book presentations, and other occasions where the stunning backdrop adds a historic dimension impossible to match in a more modern public forum.

The floors are intricately patterned with mosaics, walls and ceilings are ornately decorated, and richly carved tables and chairs furnish the rooms.

Going through anonymous doors that are not open to the public we were led through a labyrinth of hallways and rooms, ultimately leading to a small stone staircase that exits on the rooftop of the Palazzo Vecchio. There is a gallery that circles all around the secret structure; in the center is a small door which houses an amazing artisan workshop where the restoration of antique tapestries takes place.

Stunning tapestries intricately stitched with silk and wool, are being restored by the capable hands of the artisans. The fibers used are dyed in house and many shades are made to perfectly match the damaged area. The techniques used are exactly the same as when they were made centuries ago. How incredible, as millions of tourists are bustling in the Piazza below, the artisans quietly and patiently work in the secret room on the rooftop of the Palace....

Pranzo Al Fresco~A summer lunch "Al Fresco"

2010-07-02T16:22:00.002-04:00

A few simple ingredients and a little creativity are all that’s needed to create a colorful and refreshingly light lunch. The soups are surprisingly rich tasting because of the creamy consistency obtained after blending; I do not add milk or heavy cream. Serve them chilled and decorate with a dollop of low-fat yogurt and fresh chopped mint or chives.

The unusual combination of tangy rucola and sweet melon makes a sophisticated and interesting appetizer. Dress it lightly with a good balsamic vinegar and Extra Virgin olive oil. I like to finish by grinding some sea salt and black pepper on the salad just before serving. The flavors just complement each other beautifully!

A simple Caprese can become extraordinary if the ingredients used are carefully selected. Imported Mozzarella di Bufala from the Campania region of Italy (the type that comes in a plastic tub with the milky liquid) is a must, as well as the ripest and most flavorful tomatoes; nothing beats a fresh picked sun ripened tomato from your garden. I love to plant all my own herbs as well, and I find the Genoa Basil real has a wonderfully strong aroma that is perfect for the Caprese.

Aceto Balsamico di Modena

2010-05-14T15:28:00.010-04:00

I attended a tasting of Balsamico "Tradizionale" in Modena-this wondrous event featured the best producers of Aceto Balsamico from Modena. Most stands were small family run businesses, who were proud to present their carefully aged Balsamic Vinegars. To experience the real aceto you should look for a "Tradizionale" aged at least 12 years, or a "Extra-Vecchio" aged at least 25 yrs. To make the vinegar they begin with boiling a "must" from Trebbiano grapes in a copper pot. Once boiled down to about 1/3 of the volume the liquid is then transferred to a series of barrels made from different aromatic woods. After a certain period of time the liquid will be transferred to a smaller barrel, usually the process is repeated 5-6 times. The woods used can be cherry, oak, chestnut, juniper, and mulberry, and the final product will always be slightly different as each family has it's own secret method past down from generation to generation.
Authentic Balsamico is going to be expensive, considering the time and limited quantity produced. Once a year the very best aged Balsamics are auctioned off, connoisseurs world wide meet in Modena for the event. When looking for an authentic balsamico, you will look for the Giugiaro glass bottle which is the only approved container, a specially numbered seal across the cap, and of course it will be labeled either "tradizionale" or "extra-vecchio". Taste it pure to appreciate the aromatic qualities, but also it's great on Parmigiano cheese, on fresh strawberries, creamy gelato.....it will turn anything into an extraordinary delight!
prices can range from $75.00-$500.00.

Anghiari

2010-05-09T19:07:00.010-04:00

Hidden in the hills of Tuscany near the Umbrian border is a splendid medieval castle called Castello di Sorci. Dated from 1040, the current owner will show you around, telling the history and legends of this place. Ask to visit the ancient "cantine" where you can see the wine cellars and prison cells (now used to age pecorino cheese!)
The locanda serves traditional Tuscan fare, rustic country bread, crostini, and the local salame Toscano. Local women make handmade tagliatelle and ravioli which are served with truffles, the meats are seasoned with fresh herbs and grilled to perfection. Meals are served in grand dining rooms with renaissance frescoes surrounding you. It's beautiful in the spring as the doors open onto the gorgeous gardens, the scent of jasmine wafts in with the breeze, and guests are served at long tables which fill the room. Of course their wonderful wines accompany the meal, the perfect ending should be a glass of Vin Santo and homemade biscotti. You are invited to linger on the sun-drenched terraces and courtyard. I love these places which keep the original character intact, It feels as if you was transported into the past....
http://www.castellodisorci.it/

Stazione Centrale di Milano

2010-03-06T14:04:00.009-05:00

This time of year it always seems as if Milano is wrapped in a cold gray fog; I notice this as the train slowly enters the massive iron and concrete arches that take you into the station. But when I get off the train and head to the exit there is always certain vibrancy particular to Milan. Maybe the huge and colorful “Campari” ads splashed above the timetables, or the stunning mosaics throughout the area that invite you to stop and admire them. Pigeons are always flying about, going from their nests on top the iron beams swooping down to the lower level near the bars where patrons quickly eat a brioche or pannino and leave plenty of crumbs on the floor. If you happen to be going through, take some time to notice the clever way that the original mosaics have adapted to the modern addition of the walking escalators.
Note the large mosaics above each main exit facing the Piazza, each represents important cities in Italy with matching emblems on the floors in front of them.
I find the wooden benches in the waiting area beautifully carved, and the dark wood creates a balanced contrast between the modern and traditional.
So despite the gloomy weather, going through the station puts me in a good mood, and upon exiting I look forward to sipping a nice aperitif or espresso, but not before stopping in the piazza for a bag of the most delicious just roasted hot chestnuts!

Rina Milano

2010-01-19T15:01:00.004-05:00

RINISSIMA
simply beautiful bespoke women's' clothing

Rina Milano, soft spoken and gracious, yet with the unmistakable confidence of a woman of substance who is in control of her craft, is the creator and driving force behind Rinissima.
An Atelier in Florence which offers exceedingly beautiful bespoke clothing, for women who love quality tailoring that goes beyond fashion and time.
I had a chance to meet and speak with her both in her Atelier in Italy as well as in New York, where she comes four times a year to present her newest collection as well as follow up with fittings for her U.S. clients.
The client who comes to Ms. Milano is not looking for a fashion statement per se, but is looking to create her own unique look, guided by the stylists’ expertise. As a result, the finished product has Ms. Milano’s unmistakable touch, yet represents an integral part of the client’s personality. Her flair is for designing and making classic yet chic clothes that are conceived to flatter a woman’s figure and personality.
How does one go about having a bespoke dress made? After an initial appointment, the client will meet to discuss what the client is looking for, the style, the type of fabric, and the colors. Ms. Milano only works with the highest quality materials – silks from Como, cashmere from Biella, and lace from France and Switzerland. Her priceless recommendations will ensure a design that emphasizes the fluidity of a sensuous fabric while always suggesting a style to flatter the client’s physique.
Ms. Milano’s passion is contagious as she proudly shows a piece from her latest collection, pointing out the possible variations, the splendid array of fabrics, shades of color, to such details as the particular stitch used on minute pleats. Indeed, her talent for the finer points of design is exemplified as she eagerly points out the intricately crafted metal buttons which she commissioned an artisan to make just for her.
This is a luxury beyond going into a boutique and purchasing a dress off a rack, this allows one to participate in the making of their very own creation.
Rina Milano -Palazzo Caponi -Firenze
www.rinissima.it

Mosaico

2009-08-31T15:42:00.014-04:00

Sometimes while walking around Florence I just stumble upon the most amazing little workshops. Recently while walking in the Oltrarno area, I met Gessica Faelli a young mosaic artist from Friuli. The small storefront dislpayed some of her work, I found it very intriguing and she invited me in to show me more of her work. She studied at the reknown Mosaic school in Spilimbergo, after having apprenticed under a master mosaicist she decided to open up a studio of her own. She blends traditional techniques with a contemporary angle which result in a very original style. She works on commission but does have a few pieces for sale in the small store front.
http://gessicafaelli.com/

On the same street right before crossing the Arno, is a shop (Bianco Bianchi) with gorgeous table tops made in Scagliola, this method looks like a mosaic, but is actually an intarsio, chiseled designs are filled with a colored paste and smoothed over to give it the look of marbled inlay.

http://www.biancobianchi.com/eng/laboratorio.htm

On a side street near Santa Croce I found Lastrucci in his incredibly beautiful studio, filled with amazing mosaics made in the traditional Florentine method of pietradura. He explained how he learned as a child from a master who only used the tools and techniques that were used hundreds of years ago. A tool made from a wooden branch and metal wire is used to "saw out" the design, semi precious stones are cut to fit in the design, so tightly that there is no space in between the cuts. The works you see here are worthy of what you may have seen at the Uffizi or Pitti. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xiIzUzD0xxU

Back to the origins of Michelangelo

2009-07-31T15:51:00.024-04:00

Did you ever wonder where Michelangelo was born? We spent a wonderful long weekend driving through fascinating places in Tuscany. Our travel companions were friends from our historic automobile club, so it was perfect as we drove through the sun soaked gentle hills of Arezzo in our little red fiat roadster. Casale Michelangelo is the small medieval hamlet from the 1200's where he was born. The Buonarotti family home was situated on top of a hill, with breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. The friendly local people who inhabit the miniature "borgo" made me feel like I was taken back in time. Our stay at the charming inn "Buca Michelangelo" was lovely, as were the fabulous meals (lots of summer truffle) eaten out on the terrace surrounded by those idllyc views. (I loved it!) Michelangelo's home and the small church where he was born were interesting to see, but I found a very exciting and unexpected treat; in a seperate building, we visited a museum which houses a collection of small and medium sculptures from the late 700's. Credit goes to Prof. Guidoni who donated the ecclectic collection. Adjacent to this exhibit is a conference room which hosts seminars and cultural events, it has an array of casts of Michelangelo's most famous works. Discover art.......

http://www.capresemichelangelo.net/
http://www.bucadimichelangelo.it/
http://www.capresemichelangelo.net/progetto/

''La Sosta del Gusto''

2009-06-27T06:58:00.008-04:00

This place is fantastic!
One of my favorite restaurants, located on the Castello del Trebbio estate, a dreamlike setting in the Chianti Rufina area, s/e of Florence. Few places offer food at such a consistently high level; Chef Claudio creates extraordinary dishes that combine unusual ingredients, that are suprisingly compatable; (risotto w/saffron and lavander, homemade tagliatelle w/radicchio and fresh truffles, potato and spinach gnocchi with a lamb sauce.....) They personally select their meats, cheese, and produce from local farmers, the wonderfully aromatic herbs are fresh picked from the garden adjacent to the outdoor patio. I love that the dishes are so perfectly balanced, light and delicate, yet rich and flavorful at the same time. The dining room is managed by Federico, who never fails to select an ideal wine to accompany my meal. The atmosphere is intimate, comfortable, casual and elegant. If you appreciate excellent quality food that is expertly prepared, make a reservation (it is recommended), and let me know if you agree.
http://www.vinoturismo.it/
Castello del Trebbio – Via Santa Brigida, 9 (S.Brigida – FI)

St. Francis at La Verna

2009-06-13T20:21:00.011-04:00

We visited the sanctuary of La Verna, a breathtaking mountain peak where St. Francis came to meditate in the Casentino hills near Arezzo in Tuscany. This is where the Virgin Mary appeared to him, inspiring construction of the church, very similar to the church in Assisi, in the early 1200's. It is also where the holy event of his stigmata took place; mentioned in Dante's Divine Comedy (the Paradise chant XI). The della Robbia's have some of their finest work here, I chose a detail of one of the beautiful glazed ceramics adorning an altar. A refreshingly serene place to spend a day surrounded by nature, art, and history- It is open to the public, and you can contact the office to have a Franciscan monk give you a personal tour. Our guide was Frate Fiorenzo who kept us intrigued with all the interesting information and his ~divine~ sense of humour. This is a great day trip, especially on those hot and humid summer days in Firenze.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/La_Verna

http://www.santuariolaverna.org/

Santa Maria Novella (L'Antica Farmacia)

2009-05-06T11:36:00.016-04:00

Not your usual drug store!

Around the corner from P.za S.M.N. is the unassuming entrance to one of my favorite shops in Florence, L'Officina Farmaceutica Santa Maria Novella. I love their wonderful Potpourri, that is the smell of Tuscany, rich, sweet, and lingering, to me it smells like home. I had a chance to visit the workshop where all these products are made, the owner explained the process he has devised to continue making the potpourri just as the Dominican friars had centuries ago. The flowers and herbs from the Florentine hills are aged in huge terracotta "orcie" where their fragrances slowly blend. It is just magically beautiful! It's not really a pharmacy as we intend it, but an enchanting shop which sells soaps and candles, perfume, lotions. A great place to pick up a unique gift.

L'officina Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella, Via della Scala, 16/r-

To read more about it's fascinating history-http://www.italian.it/santamarianovella/smnuk.htm

Almost spring in Firenze

2009-03-20T23:50:00.008-04:00

Florence is a city that invites you to stroll along her ancient streets, and that is what I did with my son Jacopo last week. He had come to see his soccer team "La Fiorentina" play, and I needed to do some shopping. I enjoy going places with him as he is curious and patient with me, listening to my little historical anecdotes as we walk....
Jacopo is my official photographer, so we walked across the city from P.za Liberta' to San Frediano stopping along the way to comment on the beautiful minute architectural details that you notice when you walk slowly down a side street. As we were heading to the Farmacia, we stopped to admire the facade of Santa Maria Novella, the white and green marble illuminated buy the late afternoon sun. We looked at the doors, the heavy metal hinges, the carved marble cornices. Above one of the doors was a painting, I noticed that in the lower right corner of the scene, was a woman with a young boy next to her. I thought to myself that maybe 500 years ago in that same piazza a mother was walking with her son.........

Why I love Italy

2009-03-18T11:18:00.008-04:00

It is where my father and two daughters were born, it is where I have family, and friends. I love the wonderful food, the art, the music, the laughter in the streets, the sun setting over the Arno, a warm brioche with jam and a hot cappuccino-wine sipping in Panzano, tasting the balsamico in Modena, gelato, taking my son to Boboli, visiting a mosaic artist in her studio, going to Sedean, gazing at the Alps from the train as it quietly passes Lake Como, listening to the birds sing in the cloister of San Antonio in Padova, prosciutto di San Daniele and Tocai from Friuli, dining on a cliffside terrace overlooking the Mar Tirreno eating a fresh from the sea(food) feast.
These are some of my experiences, I share them hoping to introduce you to some different and interesting views of my life in Italy.