Joe Gartman pays a visit to the home of the Brownings and reminds us of their path to love and fame… The courtship of Elizabeth Barrett and Robert Browning may be the most thoroughly documented in history, because it was conducted almost entirely by letter. And Robert was certainly a very impetuous wooer; in his very […]
Early summer vegetables such as beans and courgettes are joined this month by a variety of fruits and fish as the year’s main harvest really begins come in… Apricots – albicocche In the peak of its season during the summer, the apricot, with its peach-like tang and pale orange skin, is a flavoursome, colourful ingredient to add […]
Our editor Amanda Robinson discovers authentic Italian flavours and new friends at a hands-on cookery course in the Veneto hills… Total immersion: it’s the best way to learn, right? Speak a second language like a native, pass your driving test, swim like a fish, become a chef… It’s a tried-and-tested route to success. So, how about […]
It’s famous for Venice and other captivating cities, but this prosperous northern region has rural delights aplenty. Buyers seeking good investment or great value for money should take a closer look, says Fleur Kinson. Sophisticated, romantic and beautiful – these words might or might not describe your partner, but they certainly describe Veneto, a lovely, […]
We talk a lot about what a painting is of, and what it means, but not so much about what is made of, and how it was painted. Often when we are talking about paintings, the materials used to actually make the painting rarely get a mention. However, just like the ingredients of a great […]
In Ravenna, a Queen gives birth to a daughter whose actions precipitate the founding of Venice. By the early 5th century AD, the Roman Empire was in two parts, ruled by two different emperors in two different capital cities. The eastern half was administered from Constantinople, in Thrace. The western capital was in Ravenna, in […]
Shropshire-based David and Leila Church bought a two-bedroom apartment on the southern side of Lake Garda twelve years ago. They stay there for a month every summer and make several week-long visits throughout the rest of the year. At other times they offer the apartment for holiday rentals through a local agency. What drew them to […]
To celebrate our 150th issue we have launched a competition for 2017 in association with Villa Sandi. Italy has long been a source of inspiration for writers which is why we want your travel tales for our competition. Send us a 1,000 word article about any aspect of travel in Italy, whether it’s your latest […]
Sara Scarpa spends a weekend in Modena, a city primarily famous for performance cars and the world’s best vinegar, but one that has much more to offer besides… After wandering along the cobbled streets in the centre of Modena, we finally reach a small, dark square with a few tables lit by a tall lamp. […]
Amanda Robinson is no stranger to Italian cooking. This time round she opted for a week long class in Venice and was impressed every step of the way. Like so many Italia! readers, I adore the vibrant food culture in Italy and I love to cook Italian food at home. I have enjoyed a number […]