28 Mar 2014

Posted at 00:00h in Italian itineraries

Mona LisaThe “Gioconda” or Mona Lisa, probably the most famous portrait in the world, was painted by Leonardo da Vinci between 1503 and 1514 and is on permanent display at the Louvre in Paris.

According to tradition, as well as the famous 16th century art historiographer and critic, GiorgioVasari, the woman depicted is Lisa Gherardini, i.e. “Mona” Lisa (short for “Madonna” , “Signora”), the wife of the noble Florentine merchant Francesco del Giocondo (thus the term “Gioconda” is also used).

During his third stay in Florence, Leonardo lived in a house next door to Palazzo Gondi (which has since been destroyed), just a few meters away from Piazza della Signoria, which belonged to a branch of the Gherardini family.

26 Mar 2014

Posted at 00:00h in Italian itineraries

Sicily's seasideThe island of Sicily is undoubtedly one of the most attractive destinations in Italy. It is a popular resort with incomparable beauty supplemented by a rich cultural and architectural heritage.

What makes Sicily particularly unique is its blend of cultures and nations which can be attributed to the region’s rich history. Over centuries Sicily has seen a succession of rulers including Normans, Phoenicians, Arabs, Greek, and Romans just to mention a few. There are many remnants of Phoenician settlements, Greek temples, Norman castles, Punic cities, and even Aragonese churches all over the island.

24 Mar 2014

Posted at 00:00h in Italian itineraries

View on Amalfi Coast from the sentieroDespite having long been inhabited, the Amalfi Coast could only be accessed via the sea for many years. It was not until 1815 that the small towns and villages along this beautiful limestone coastline were linked by mule tracks and rock-hewn paths along the panoramic mountains.

A fine example of these paths is the Sentiero degli Dei which means the God’s Pathway or Path of the Gods. The Sentiegro degli Dei connects the hill-top town of Agerola with the town of Nocelle in the Postiano region on the slopes of Mount Peruso.

03 Mar 2014

Posted at 00:00h in Italian itineraries

Italian country clubs are simply the epitome of luxury. In this article we have the solution to all your luxury golf holidays in Italy needs.

In true Italian tradition, we strive to make your outdoor activities just as interesting as our famed cuisines, wines, and entertainment. Take time to improve your swing in one of these Italian open golf courses or sweat it out on a private tennis court before dipping in a sparkling outdoor pool.