Melanzana scarpone or baked aubergines

This is a very old recipe for baked aubergines. Aubergines were introduced to Italy from China or India in the late 1400s by the Arabs. This can either be served as part of an antipasto platter or as a first course.  Melanzana scarpone  Serves 4  Ingredients 2 large aubergines Vegetable oil, for frying 2 garlic […]

Our home in Tuscany

Alex Josephy and David Hornbrook had always thought that Tuscany was out of their reach, until they were introduced to a newly restored property that made their dreams come true… Alex Josephy and David Hornbrook bought their three-storey house in the wine-producing town of Montalcino, Tuscany, in 2008. The house is half of an old […]

Top Five Chocolate Shops in Italy

There’s nothing like stepping into a shop filled with the aroma of freshly made chocolate. We take a look at Italy’s best chocolate shops to visit if you’re looking for the ultimate chocoholic’s experience Viziovirt Ù S Polo 2898/A, Venice Mariangela, the owner of this popular chocolate shop in the heart of Venice, aims to […]

Ara Pacis Augustas – the altar of absolute peace

The marble sculptures on Rome’s altar of absolute peace attract visitors because of their beauty, but their origins lie in celebrating the victories of Emperor Augustus… The Ara Pacis Augustae, or altar to the absolute peace, was commissioned by the Roman Senate in 13BC, and in 9BC was dedicated to the peace established by Emperor […]

Artistic devotion – discover Italia!

When it comes to works of religious art, the Medici chapel in Florence has plenty to offer. Take a closer look at the history behind the paintings with Marina Belozerskaya Classical stories and portraits graced the homes of rich and self-consciously enlightened Florentines, but by far the most common household images were the Madonna and […]

Top Five Spirits & Liqueurs

From the sweet and fruity to the bitter and boisterous, Italy has an impressive heritage of alcoholic tipples. We had a lot of fun picking our five of the best… Grappa One of Italy’s oldest alcoholic drinks, historians speculate that grappa may have been around for up to 1,500 years. It was probably developed in […]

Travel essentials for your next holiday

Take a look at this inspiring selection of travel essentials, gadgets, gizmos and kits, all available to the weary traveller. What will you choose to help turn a trying trip into a dream destination? You’ve packed your clothes, reading books, favourite sun hat and passport and, of course, your shades. Could you have missed an […]