Throwing coins in fountains… it’s a time-honored ritual when finding yourself in front of a fountain. Countless people, including myself, have tossed coins into fountains to make a wish and possibly to bring us some good luck too. In fact, …
La Befana: Italian Tradition in January
In Italian Christmas folklore, La Befana (pronounced [beˈfana]) is represented by an old woman riding a broomstick through the air. She delivers various sweets and candy to good children on Epiphany Eve. But if you were bad – watch out… you …
Vino Sfuso: Wine on Tap – Do You Know?
What in the World is Vino Sfuso? In case you’re not aware… let’s introduce you to an entirely different category of wine. Sfuso or vino sfuso is the name given for bulk wine, you know the kind sold in five-liter …
Guinigi Tower | Lucca’s Beautiful Landmark
The Guinigi Tower is a beautiful landmark of Lucca and is easily recognizable by the garden on the top. A wonderful view of the city and the surrounding mountains is yours to enjoy for the easy climb to the top. …
Montalcino | Discovering the Beautiful Hill Town and Famous Wine
Montalcino, Italy Montalcino is one of the famous hill towns of Italy. It is located in the region of Tuscany in the Province of Siena. The town is 94 square miles in size and at an elevation of approximately 1900 …
Uffizi Gallery Museum | It’s Famous Worldwide
The Uffizi Gallery Museum is famous worldwide for its outstanding collections of ancient sculptures and paintings. Did you know, the Uffizi is home to some of the most important works of the Renaissance? These include masterpieces by Giotto, Filippo Lippi, …
What is Buccellato di Lucca? Ancient Bread Recipe
Buccellato di Lucca is from the Tuscan region and particularly – the city of Lucca. The bread is made with raisins, and it used to be the favorite of the Roman army. Shaped in the form of a ring or …
What in the World Is Phylloxera?
Before we came to Lucca in April of 2021, I had never heard of phylloxera or what effect it had on vineyards in Italy and all of Europe. Then we became good friends with Jim and JoAn and my wine …
Devil’s Bridge | Interesting Tuscan Legends
Devil’s Bridge (Ponte del Diavolo) |Borgo a Mozzano Recently, Gary and I explored the Devil’s Bridge or Ponte del Diavolo – the main attraction in the town of Borgo a Mozzano. A quick 20-minute train trip from Lucca along with …
Visit The Bargello National Museum | Florence
The Bargello National Museum The Bargello Museum is located in the Palazzo del Bargello and is one of the oldest buildings in Florence dating back to 1255. Initially, the building was the headquarters of the Captain of the People, Capitano del Popolo, and later …
The Beauty & History of the Palazzo Pfanner
Palazzo Pfanner Gary and I took a few hours recently and walked to the Palazzo Pfanner to finally take a peek inside. We have been to Lucca several times before moving here, however, never had the chance to explore this …
Norcia, Italy | Our Extra Special Town
The small town of Norcia is located in the province of Perugia in southeastern Umbria. Norcia is located in the heart of the Sibillini Mountains National Park with a population of fewer than 5,000 people. It’s one of those small …