22 stunning photos of Christmas in the south of Italy

tree of life illumination Christmas photos from south of Italy

Joe and Pat Gartman share the festive photos they took when they spent Christmas in the south of Italy… Jump to the photos After a stay in Rome, we headed south by train in the middle of November 2022 – our first trip back to Italy since the pandemic. Somehow, despite all our wanderings, we’d […]

5 religious festivals in Italy

La Befana (the witch) with coal

From the Feast of the Immaculate Conception to La Festa della Befana, experience five of the most significant religious festivals in Italy and discover why they remain an integral part of Italian identity… Italy is steeped in history and tradition, and its religious festivals reflect this rich cultural tapestry. Religious festivals in Italy are celebrated […]

Savoury Pumpkin and Gorgonzola Pie

Savoury pumpkin and gorgonzola pie

This savoury pumpkin pie recipe is a great way to make use of leftovers after carving pumpkins, but you can enjoy this hearty meal long after Halloween is over… Words, recipe and photo © Mario Matassa Pumpkins have earned something of a bad rap and I can’t help but consider myself partially to blame. Ever […]

Pumpkin, Baby Tomato and Mozzarella Salad

Pumpkin, baby tomato and mozzarella salad

This warm winter salad, with roasted pumpkin, spinach, baby roasted tomatoes and mozzarella, drizzled with balsamic is a wonderful and healthy vegetarian option… Words, recipe and photo © Mario Matassa Naturally, when we think of pumpkin, we tend to visualise the large orange head-shaped variety, perfectly suited for carving scary faces. In my local supermarket, […]

Applying for Italian citizenship in Italy vs abroad

The Italian Cultural Institute in Belgravia, London.

In many cases when applying for Italian citizenship, you can choose whether to apply in Italy or abroad. Find out more below… Applying for citizenship via an Italian municipality If you are able to travel to Italy, it is often a much quicker process than applying at an Italian consulate. The most important first step […]

Chocolate Chip and Pumpkin Ciambella

Chocolate Chip and Pumpkin Ciambella

Turn your leftover pumpkin into a delicious dessert with this chocolate chip and pumpkin ciambella recipe by Mario Matassa… Recipe and photo © Mario Matassa This chocolate chip and pumpkin ciambella recipe is virtually foolproof, and the bitter chocolate and sweet pumpkin combine perfectly. What’s more, it keeps well, handy for those winter nights in […]

Top 5 natural wonders in Italy

Overview of Mount Etna in Sicily during an eruption

Italy is home to many natural wonders. Browse our list of five of the best to find your next destination… 1. Mount Etna, Sicily This brooding volcano in Sicily is one of Italy’s most majestic sights. Virgil himself witnessed an eruption in Roman times, an account of which was recorded in the Aeneid. Because of […]

Gnocchi with Pumpkin and Taleggio

Gnocchi with pumpkin and taleggio

Make a delicious dish using seasonal produce with Mario Matassa’s recipe for gnocchi with pumpkin sauce… Recipe and photo © Mario Matassa Enjoy this gnocchi with a creamy pumpkin sauce, finished under the grill with taleggio cheese. It makes a delicious starter or light meal. Warm and filling, this dish is comfort food at its […]

Mushroom, Sausage and Sage Risotto Recipe

Mushroom, sausage and sage risotto

With rich porcini mushroom and flavourful Italian sausage, this risotto makes a delicious and filling meal Recipe and photo © Mario Matassa Mushroom, sausage and sage risotto | Risotto funghi, salsiccia e salvia ➤ SERVES: 4 ➤ PREPARATION: 20 minutes ➤ COOKING: 15 minutes Ingredients: 50g dried porcini mushrooms olive oil handful of fresh sage leaves 160g Italian […]