Venice for the Biennale
Once every two years from June to November, Venice becomes the centre of the contemporary art world, when it is hosting one of the most prestigious international art gathering: the … Continue reading
A writer’s house
The writer Alberto Moravia was a major figure in 20th century Rome. Not only was he one of Italy’s most popular writers, but he was also a presence in the … Continue reading
Raffaello at Villa Farnesina
Raffaello was the darling of Rome. According to the art historian Giorgio Vasari, he had such a pleasant personnality that he charmed everybody who counted in the Vatican, except perhaps … Continue reading
Italy’s Byzantine treasures
Driving from Rome to Ravenna in Emilia-Romagna feels a bit like going to another country. Apart from the language, everything is different: the landscape, the way the city is organised, … Continue reading
Trajan column unravelled
Trajan was one of Rome’s great emperors, ruling over the Empire from 98 to 117 AD. He was a distinguished army leader, who brought victory in the German provinces, and … Continue reading
Urbi et Orbi
It is difficult to write about Rome without mentioning the still overwhelming presence of the Pope and the Vatican. As is the custom on Christmas and Easter day, the Pope … Continue reading
Bramante’s perfect proportions
Hidden in the small cloister of St Pietro in Montorio on the Janiculum hill, Bramante’s Tempietto (little temple) is considered as the High-Renaissance masterpiece encompassing all the ideals and ideas … Continue reading
Piazza di Spagna
My favourite time to go to Piazza di Spagna is early in the morning, between 8 and 9 am, before it gets too busy. The light is already quite bright, … Continue reading
Rome’s best swimming pool
Finding a swimming pool in Rome is no easy task. There are a few but they tend to be part of rather outdated yet expensive private sports clubs. One of … Continue reading
An olive grove in the middle of the city
Italy is well known for its many monasteries, usually located in beautiful and peaceful settings to favour a life of meditation. However, one such monastery exists in a very urban … Continue reading
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