Posts about Italy

Regardless of where you're staying in Puglia, our definitive calendar of top events will give you the low-down on what's happening near you.

With Archaeologists in Sicily dating pottery back to at least 2,400BCE, we explore the rich history and multi-national influences behind Sicilian ceramics.

Planning the perfect family holiday in Europe can feel overwhelming with so many destinations to choose from. However, three locations consistently stand out as offering the ideal blend of culture, relaxation, stunning scenery, and child-friendly activities: Italy, the Greek Islands, and Corsica. These Mediterranean gems provide everything families need for an extraordinary European adventure.

Between 1876 and 1915, nearly 1.4 million Sicilians emigrated. A similar exodus occurred in the 1950s, when nearly half a million (over 10% of the population) left home in search of a better life. Read on to find out more about this fascinating slice of Sicilian history, which weaves together poverty, bravery, disasters, wars, intolerance, romance, and dreams that come true.

Sicily's multi-millennial history at the crossroads of the Mediterranean has left it with an enormous and varied range of archaeological wonders. Phoenician, Elymian, Greek and Roman sites abound, and no matter where you're staying on the island, there'll be a world-class ancient treasure or two nearby. Dig deeper with us.

Nestled in the heart of Puglia's rolling countryside, trulli houses stand as one of Italy's most extraordinary architectural marvels. These distinctive cone-shaped limestone dwellings, with their mystical whitewashed walls and grey stone roofs, have captured the imagination of travellers for centuries. From their humble beginnings as peasant dwellings to their current status as UNESCO World Heritage sites and luxury holiday retreats, trulli houses represent a unique blend of history, craftsmanship, and Mediterranean charm.

Sicily, the jewel of the Mediterranean, is an island where ancient traditions dance with modern celebrations, creating a tapestry of events that captivate visitors throughout the year. From the thunderous devotion of religious processions to the refined elegance of ancient Greek theatre, events in Sicily offer an authentic glimpse into the soul of this remarkable island. Whether you're drawn to the spiritual intensity of Easter celebrations, the gastronomic delights of seasonal food festivals, or the cultural sophistication of world-class performances, Sicily's event calendar promises transformative experiences that will linger in your memory long after your return home.

When visiting Sicily, you'll encounter one of the Mediterranean's most distinctive and historically significant flags. The Sicilian flag, with its striking trinacria symbol and bold red and yellow colours, tells the story of an island that has stood at the crossroads of civilisation for millennia. From ancient Greek coins to modern football stadiums, this remarkable emblem continues to represent Sicily's unique identity, fierce independence, and cultural pride. Understanding the Sicilian flag enriches any visit to this extraordinary island, revealing layers of meaning that connect ancient mythology with modern regional identity. Whether you spot it flying from government buildings in Palermo or adorning local products in bustling markets, the flag serves as a constant reminder of Sicily's complex and fascinating history.

Buon Natale! Christmas in Italy offers an enchanting blend of ancient traditions, sumptuous feasts, and heartwarming family celebrations that differ beautifully from holiday customs elsewhere. From the mystical arrival of La Befana to the legendary Feast of Seven Fishes, Italian Christmas traditions create unforgettable memories steeped in centuries of culture and Catholic heritage.

The second season of HBO's critically acclaimed series The White Lotus transported viewers to some of Italy's most breathtaking locations, with Sicily serving as the magnificent backdrop for this dark comedy-drama. From the dramatic coastlines of Taormina to the baroque splendour of Noto, the White Lotus locations in Italy showcase the island's unparalleled beauty and cultural richness. If you've been captivated by these stunning settings and dream of experiencing them firsthand, this comprehensive guide will take you through every key filming location whilst revealing how you can stay in luxury villas that place you at the heart of this Mediterranean paradise.

Puglia, Italy's sun-drenched heel, offers some of the country's most authentic and extraordinary dining experiences. From Michelin-starred establishments to charming family-run trattorias, the best restaurants in Puglia showcase the region's exceptional agricultural heritage through dishes that celebrate locally-sourced ingredients and time-honoured culinary traditions. This comprehensive guide reveals the finest restaurants across Puglia's most enchanting destinations, ensuring your culinary journey through this remarkable region is nothing short of extraordinary.

When booking your next Mediterranean holiday, it can be difficult to choose between beguiling Italy and enchanting Greece. Why not let your stomach make the decision for you? Will it be Italy and its pizza, pasta and arancini or Greece and its moussaka, giro and halloumi?