Italy “Repubblica Italiana Bel Paesa”: beautiful country

Fabulous Facts about Italy: Explore the Rich History, Art, and Cuisine of Italy’s Charming Towns. Discover the Must-Visit Places and Cultural Delights!

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Italy has interjected so much into each one of our worlds! To not go and visit this beautiful country and visually experience these wonders is very heartrending. The history books have only touched on the marvels within the country; with the shape of a high-heeled shoe! 

Please read my blog on How Italy Charmed Me with its Towns & Landscape, you will love it!

I’m constantly amazed by the blog, twoguysabroad, which writes informative, inspiring, and truly captivating blogs about Italy – reading their content will leave you feeling inspired to explore the country.

10 Fabulous Facts about Italy

• Alfa Romeo, Maserati, and Lamborghini were born in Italy
• The Italian Grey wolf is the national animal
• Pizza was born in Milan
• Don’t use ketchup with your pasta, you will insult the chef
• Rome is regarded as the “home” of the Catholic Church
• Italy includes the islands of Sicily and Sardegna among others
• Apennine and Alps are the two main mountain ranges
• Michelangelo sculptured 182 pieces, including his famed sculptures David and Pietà
• Most residents dine at 9.00 pm in the evening
• Gelato ice-creams birthplace was known as Sicily

Describing the People of Italy

Did you know the Italians are famous for the “Spaghettata” gesture? These are hand gestures that Italians use to make their point. Even when they are on the telephone, they often will go into an open space so they can express themselves! In fact, they can use up to 250 gestures per day! Watch the chef’s in the restaurants. They kiss their fingers to show when their cuisine tastes perfect!

I find the locals courteous, and expressive and initially they keep their reserves, but as they get to know you they open up and are particularly friendly. They love their “cibo” (food) and family is very important to them. Work starts at 8 or 9 am and finishes at 6 or 7 pm, with a two-hour lunch break during the day.

Italian is the predominant language, then English. Before I went over, I downloaded duolingo, a free app where I could learn a bit of their mother tongue. It most certainly served me well. I also find the language incredibly romantic.

Some phrases & words that you can practice before visiting

• Thank you – Grazie
• Yes – Si
• Hello – Salve (formal) and Ciao (informal)
• Good morning – Buongiorno
• Good evening – Buonasera
• Who? – Chi?
• Where? – Dove?
• How much? – Quanto?
• What is your name? – Come si chiama?
• Tourist – Turista
• Airport – Aeroporto
• Train – Treno
• Store – Negozio

Places you must visit in Italy

“One of the great joys of traveling through Italy is discovering firsthand that it is, indeed, a dream destination.” – Debra Levinson

The ancient history of civilization streams across Italy, whatever city you venture to, but each destination has its very own unique appeal. Walking you most certainly will do while visiting. Prior to visiting prepare yourself by hiking at home. Your legs will become much stronger and you will not feel the distances.

5 Places you must visit: Florence a step back into history

“This is the fairest picture on our planet, the most enchanting to look upon, the most satisfying to the eye and spirit. To see the sun sink down, drowned in its pink and purple and golden floods, and overwhelm Florence with tides of color that make all the sharp lines dim and faint and turn the solid city into a city of dreams, is a sight to stir the coldest nature, and make a sympathetic one drunk with ecstasy.“

Mark Twain

Before I forget to mention when in Florence you must visit the Bartolucci Store Firenze. Originated in 1939. Toys are handmade beautifully from wood including the fictional character Pinocchio. The shop gave me goosebumps! So much is for sale in the squares and tourist areas that are made in China and not in Italy, whereas this store is truly Italian and a marvelous retailer. This is where I did my shopping for my grandkids!

As the main purpose of our voyage to Florence, was to see all the incredible Renaissance art, architecture, and easily walkable traditional tourist attractions, we stayed in an immaculate, pleasant B&B in Firenze, CBD. We walked everywhere, every day! (Before visiting countries in Europe, I suggest taking up hiking at home, so you become fit.)

Two shops down from our B & B was a Gelato ice cream and coffee shop referred to as the “Secret Garden” – Gelateria Caffe Leonardo. Every morning, as I was the first one up, I would venture down for my cappuccino and croissant. They had internet, so it gave me a chance to catch up with some business before our day began. My son and daughter would join me for breakfast when they got up.

As I am a woman of certain habits that I love to engrain in my ventures, after our day of walking continuously (as there was so much to experience and see), I would then go over the road from our B & B to the cafe and restaurant for my closing of the daily cappuccino.

The staff got to know me well and duly presented me with my coffee and some biscuits. We often ate there in the evenings and savored the most delicious pizza I have ever tasted! Parma ham (Prosciutto in Italian, which is a dry-cured ham) and tomatoes, became also one of our favorites. Italian tomatoes are very special. They say it is because of the volcanic soil that makes them sweet and only slightly tart. I of course had to purchase numerous packets of tomato seeds to take home as gifts, as I had found them so yummy!

Thank goodness I had purchased a pair of excellent walking sneakers that supported my ankles and socks meant for walking! I would have not coped without them.

Being in Florence you want to see all the tourist attractions including the incredible museums. I highly recommend you purchase a Firenze Card on arrival. This card allows you into certain museums for free AND to skip the queue. Queues can go on forever if you do not have this card!

1. Galleria dell’Accademia

The initiation of the Gallery was in 1784. “The decisive event for the history of the museum was the transfer of Michelangelo’s David from Piazza Della Signoria in August 1873. The most famous sculpture in the world waited nine years, kept in a wooden box, for the completion of the construction of the Tribune designed by the architect Emilio De Fabris to welcome it.” – Galleria dellÁccademia. When viewing David, in real life, you get shivers, as the magnificence of the sculpture by Michaelangelo impacts your soul.

Going from one hall to another at the Accademia you view these enormous artworks by other eminent, famous, and notorious Italian artists such as Orcagna, Andrea del Sarto, Sandro Botticelli, Pontormo, and many others.

My daughter-in-law and I soon noticed that many paintings had hidden figures somewhere in the paintings that resembled the “devil”. This proved quite fun for us as we gazed at each masterpiece, this was the first thing we looked for. I became quite fascinated by this and the book Devils in Art: Florence from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance is a really good read!

2. Uffizi Gallery

How we walked and could not stop due to our continued fascination! This gallery or rather, galleries, covers two floors. Make sure you allocate time to enjoy the experience of world-class art!

Did you know on the first Sunday of each month, the museums are free? I would not advise going on these days as you will take forever to get in, so if you can afford it, don’t! Another tip, when going into the Uffizi, start from the top floor where most of the treasured pieces are. It takes ages to get through, so rather focus on the best parts first.

In the famous fresco by Giotto below, can you spot the devil in the clouds? When you go to the galleries in Italy, look for these hidden satans. It is interesting how many you can find.

3. Porte Vecchio or “Old Bridge”

“Among the four old bridges that span the river, the Ponte Vecchio, that bridge which is covered with the shops of jewellers and goldsmiths, is a most enchanting feature in the scene. The space of one house, in the centre, being left open, the view beyond, is shown as in a frame; and that precious glimpse of sky, and water, and rich buildings, shining so quietly among the huddled roofs and gables on the bridge, is exquisite”.

Charles Dickens

One of 4 bridges and a tourist must-see. Cross over the Arno River, by foot from the city center to the south district of Oltrarno. Take a personal tour of the numerous wealthy goldsmith shops lining both sides of the walkway. The Vasari Corridor runs above the upmarket shops.

On the south side, it is enchanting to meander around the walkways and have a meal at one of the Oltrarno Restaurants. An informative and interesting book worth reading is The Ponte Vecchio: The Old Bridge of Florence. It elaborates and tells the story of the Ponte Vecchio and the other bridges. You can purchase the kindle version from Amazon.

4. Duomo the Florence Cathedral

The Duomo in Florence was finished in 1438 and was initially started in 1296. Can you imagine taking 142 years to complete a cathedral? Once you see it you can understand! When we were there the queues were very long and we would have waited 1 to 2 hours to go inside, so we missed that opportunity, but I must have stood outside gazing at the sculptures and designs for at least 40 minutes! The magnitude of this creation had an enormous impact on me. The detail, the precision and the beauty!

Read this kindle book Brunelleschi’s Dome: The Story of the Great Cathedral in Florence by Ross King, before going to Florence. It most certainly makes you aware when you visit. Reading first opens your eyes and understanding of what you will be viewing.

Did you know that all cathedrals in their wholeness are designed in the shape of a cross in a perpendicular style? This is to symbolize the cross of Jesus. Did you know that the duomo, Santa Maria del Fiora, Cathedral of Florence, has two domes? The inner one is made of marble and sandstone. The outer one is vigilantly made from fired brick-and-mortar.

It was structured this way by Brunelleschi so the construction of the inner dome did not have to have columns. Just look at this detail! Now you understand why I could not stop gazing and I did not even get inside on this trip.

If you look at the door of the cathedral, on the left-hand side, you will see a lion and a lioness on top of a column. We noticed that all over Florence, we continuously saw lion sculptures. The Marzocco lion became is the animal symbol representing the free Republic of Florence. They chose this symbol if imperial power because lions can tear apart an eagle. Keep an eye open for these lions!

5. Museum of Costume and Fashion

From someone who has never been interested in fashion, but went to view the museum as my daughter-in-law is passionate, I was overcome with absorption and engrossment! It is located in the Palazzina Della Meridiana next to the Pitti Palace on the south side. The kindle book by Camille Bonnard, Renaissance and Medieval Costume (Dover Fashion and Costumes), is a super, informative read, with lots of illustrations.

Rome is the city of ancient pharisaical, evangelical, splendor, and eternal

Rome is the capital of the Lazio region and also Italy. Home of the famous Roman Empire. Who remembers the movies, Spartacus and Ben Hur? Also Gladiator? Watch these again before visiting Rome. It adds to the feeling, identification, and wonder of this never to be forgotten city.

• admire ancient ruins
• catch sight of where the gladiators battled and murdered each other
• the most beautiful churches in the world
• grasp where the city was founded by the twins Romulus and Remus
• visit where the political and religious heart of Rome originated
• experience the actual burial place of famous well-known figures and Rome’s kings
• climb Spanish steps and admire in awe the view
• go beneath the streets to a fountain and passageways
• the tombs of Raphael and the first King of Italy, Victor Emmanuel II
• encounter Trastevere (across the Tiber) a modern bohemian vibe that is flocked with boutiques selling jewelry, perfumes, curios, handicrafts, bars, and cobblestone streets to wander along
• Via del Corso is a shoppers’ paradise with famous boutiques, mega bookstore La Feltrinelli and fabulous cafes.
• have a cappuccino for breakfast and famous espressos at some of the oldest and most unique cafes in the world, such as Caffè Greco and Caffè Canova

1. Palatine Hill – “the first nucleus of the Roman Empire.”

This archaeological site was the home of emperors and aristocrats. The Palatine is the most famous of Rome’s seven hills. When you stroll among the ruins, it is deathly quiet. The atmosphere is not eerie but places you in the presence of history and awe.

2. Colosseum – where murder was encouraged

• in 2007 the Colosseum became one of the 7 wonders of the world
• Jewish slaves mainly built the colosseum in under 10 years
• as you need a ticket to get into a sports stadium today, so did the Romans need a ticket to get into an event? You did not need to pay for these tickets, but you had to book your ivory disk called tesserae in advance. These tesserae had your seat number, row number, and which one of the 80 entrances you had to enter through
• initially it was known as the Flavian Amphitheater as it was built by Emperor Vespasian
• the finest seats were reserved for the Emporer, and his guests, and often the Imperial box was sprayed with blood. The higher up you went the lower your status
• at the opening of the amphitheater, there was a 100-day celebration. Thousands of animals, they say about 9000 and men were in battle till brutal death
• the Hypogeum, the passages and tunnels underground, and 32 animal cages had easy access to the theatre
• when the gladiator was close to death, the Emporer would give a “thumbs up” giving his consent for the opponent to be put to death
• did you know the colosseum had a retractable roof to protect the gladiators and spectators from the sometimes harsh sun of Itay?

Vatican City – the smallest city in the world

Stato della Città del Vaticano means State of the Vatican. It is headed up by the pope and governed by an absolute monarchy.

St Peter’s Square has 140 statues of saints. When you stand in the middle and gaze around you, the impression and magnitude it has on you are profound!

Vatican City like other cities, has a post office, butcher, banks, radio station, and condos for the Swiss Guards, among other necessities of a city. You are not a resident of this city and therefore cannot use any of these facilities. As a tourist, you can visit the Vatican museum, Apostolic Palace (where the Pope normally lives), and Vatican Gardens. Also the St Peter’s Basilica.

The Sistine Chapel has a flood of masterpieces. This is a must-see for any tourist!

St. Peter’s Basilica

This basilica is the largest in the world and is alongside the residence of the Pope. Numerous key and fundamental ceremonies take place here. None of the “paintings” within are actual paintings, they are mosaics done with tesserae (pieces of glass used to make a mosaic) in incredible detail. The impression given is those of paintings.

There are 100 tombs at St Peter’s, comprising mostly of 91 popes and Holy Roman Emperor Otto II, also including Swedish Queen Christina. When Michaelangelo was 71 and in 1546, he was commissioned by Pope Paul III to be the chief architect in charge of building St Peter. A very well-written book as a Kindle edition, that is captivating and informative is A Pilgrimage to Eternity: From Canterbury to Rome in Search of a Faith. Another fabulous read is The Fisherman’s Tomb: The True Story of the Vatican’s Secret Search 

Venice – the city of romance

“It’s so easy for me to get caught up in the feeling of a city like Venice, where Everything is just beautiful color and gorgeous buildings that are so peaceful. You can roam around and get lost in the labyrinth.“

Nanette Lepore

We took a high-speed train from Florence to Venice in just 2 hours and 5 minutes. What a pleasurable, scenic way to travel!

I could not believe my eyes when I saw the canals, gondolas, and architecture for myself! For years I had seen pictures but the real experience was mind-boggling! Cappuccinos and croissants on arrival then a long walk along the alleyways and a boat ride down the canal. There are 150 waterways winding through the city and over 400 bridges.

Venetian cuisine comprises plenty of famous fish dishes due to fish being able to be caught fresh, daily. Fabulous restaurants are everywhere! Have a look at these recommended restaurants. It is always good to view the reviews. I am an extremely boring eater, so I preferred to have another amazing pizza!

What also blew my mind was Venetian Glass also known as Murano Glass. Just a bit in from the canals, meander down the side alleys. You will find these little glass shops. Some artists are creating incredible jewelry or gifts.

Prior to going to Venice, I had no understanding of this craft, now I respect the talent and love the pieces. When buying your Venetian glass piece, make sure you get your certificate of authenticity. If it is refused, then your wanted purchase will probably not be authentic. If you go in the off-season you will be able to get some good deals!

“The people here, at this season seem to begin to live only at midnight. Then the canals are crowded with gondolas, and St. Mark’s square with the company; the banks too of the canals are all peopled, and harmony prevails in every part. If two of the common people walk together arm in arm, they seem to converse in song; if there is a company on the water, in a gondola, it is the same; a mere melody, unaccompanied with a second part, is not to be heard in this city: all the ballads in the streets are sung in duo.”

Charles Burney

For those of you who loved Italy as much as I did, let us know which parts you loved by adding your suggestions in the Comments section. We would love to hear your recommendations.

Browse through my other destinations and see where you would like to go next.