The Mercato del Carmine The Mercato del Carmine, once the church of Santa Maria del Carmine, is a historic building located in the center of Lucca. Its raw beauty captured me from the moment I walked into the cold, empty space. I …
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 …
Lights & Holiday Spirit in Italy
Christmas lights always signify to me the beginning of the holiday season. They are beautifully strung around trees and even up the trunk of palm trees back in the States. But there is something special about lights in Italy. Each …
Where We Grocery Shop | You Wanted to Know
We’ve received many emails expressing an interest as to exactly where we grocery shop in Lucca. Now that we have put our roots down, we are beginning to establish our favorite places. Two words should come to your mind when …
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 …
Going to the Cinema | First Time in Italy
Our first time at the cinema in Italy! What a treat it was to experience going to the movies in Lucca! When I saw a notification in one of our Facebook groups that “No Time to Die” was being shown …
Spotlight: Historic Festa di Santa Croce | Lucca
Every year, the city of Lucca celebrates The Festa di Santa Croce. As expected, last year’s event was canceled but this year it was brought back, although on a smaller scale. The events begin on the evening of September 13 with the Cross di …
Giacomo Puccini | Inside the Fascinating Museum
A Look At Giacomo Puccini Recently, Gary and I along with our friend Victoria from Florence went and visited the Puccini Museum in Lucca. Frankly, I was surprised to find the building in such wonderful condition. However, I read later …
Our Italian Apartment | The Good, Bad, and Ugly
We are finally settled in our Italian apartment. Home sweet home. This was no easy feat, mind you. If you follow our journey, you know we had several contenders for our “perfect Italian city.” Parma, Arezzo, Lucca, Spello, and Conversano …
Explore the Unique Piazza dell’ Anfiteatro
The uniqueness of Piazza dell’ Anfiteatro in Lucca is given by its singular elliptical shape. Also, by the frame of medieval houses that embrace it. They cover the entire perimeter, increasing the charm. If you have ever been to Lucca, …
Nice to See You in the Piazza: April 26th
April 26th 2021 We were in the piazza on April 26th for a day of celebration in Italy. No… April 26th wasn’t a national holiday but it was an important day for us here in Italy. To citizens everywhere in …
Launching Italy 2021: It’s Finally Here!
Finally – here we are launching Italy 2021! This has been a crazy rollercoaster ride. It’s similar to the one we were on years ago while obtaining our dual citizenship with Italy. But it is difficult to think about all …