Benedictine and Jesuit fathers were the founders of the libraries we appreciate today in Sicily. Carefully, they amassed historic manuscripts, numismatic collections and texts pertaining the history of Sicily through centuries, and when they were kicked to the curb, their bibliographical heritage remained.
The most beautiful libraries are located in their Renaissance or Baroque cradles: in ornate abbeys, monastic schools and Baroque churches.
And one right in the street!
The Italian lakes stretch like Azurite gemstones, guarded by noble mountains in the southern frontier of the Alps. Everyone has their favourite. Some prefer the family-friendly Lake Garda, others the exclusivity of Lake Como, but British-based traveller Pete McDonnell fell in love with Lake Maggiore. Using its pleasant town of Stresa – The Pearl of Lake Maggiore – as a springboard, he discovers the majestic landscape of Italy and Switzerland by boat and train.
Sicily is Italy in its extreme. Its mountains are more marvellous, the food more intense, its history more alive and the weather better than mainland Italy. You can have any kind of vacation you dream of: You can immerse yourself in culture and history, hike on a volcano in the morning and dive among archaeological artefacts in the evening. And if you want to treat your senses to a feast, Sicily is a festival of culinary endeavours as well.
Rome is probably the city in Europe where ancient history is the most visible. You can’t stroll through the Forum without tripping over ancient ruins or walk around the historic centre without encountering one imposing antique structure after another.
History is alive here like no other place and defines the Eternal City. And nothing shouts “Roman history” more than these iconic buildings.
One of the great things about Rome is, that not only its ancient history is everywhere you look. Its art is as well.
On the piazzas, baroque sculptures crown trickling fountains. Roaring palazzos attest to the potency of their patrons. Galleries show us ancient as well as modern art. Museums display centuries of decorative skills.
Rome is filled to the brim with all this wonderful art. Some are free for everyone to enjoy, others are secured behind ticket counters. But they’re all waiting for you to come admire them.
Rome has more fountains than any other city in the world. They are free to view and open both day & night, which makes them a popular attraction. We found 10 fountains, that each have a special story to tell.
The Vatican is the smallest country in the world with approximately 1.000 permanent residents on 44 ha and surrounded by Rome. Yet it is home to the largest church in the world and what is probably the finest museums in Italy. And underneath your feet, a hidden Vatican awaits to be explored.
