History

Culture
by Francine Segan |
Chocolate’s history, beginning with its "discovery," is uniquely tied to Italy, responsible for many chocolate firsts.  Chocolate’s journey to the Old…
Culture
by Myra Robinson |
Even if you don’t know anyone who’s ever been to Elba, and you’re unsure exactly where it is on a map, you’re sure to know its most famous resident. Napoleon…
Culture
by rebeccawinke |
When the world thinks of Italy’s iconic fashion industry, the city that first comes to mind is Milan. Known for its well-turned-out residents, high-end…
Culture
by Silvia Donati |
In 1258, the Republic of Venice, which at the time was a leading economic and trading power in Europe, issued a decree that may well be considered…
Culture
by Silvia Donati |
In our series featuring famous Italian families, we look at the powerful dynasty of the Gonzaga, rulers of the Lombard city of Mantua for four centuries. The…
Culture
by John Bensalhia |
John Bensalhia profiles some notable historical figures connected with Piedmont... VITTORIO EMANUELE II (1820-1877) Meet Padre della Patria – or the Father of…
Culture
by Silvia Donati |
We continue this month’s focus on Piedmont with a look at the top three Roman sites in the region. With its north-western location, Piedmont was in a strategic…
Culture
by John Bensalhia |
BORN Cristoforo Colombo in October 1451 in Genoa, Liguria. ORIGINS The location of Columbus' birth has actually been a source of debate. Some historians have…
Culture
by Silvia Donati |
Greeks began to settle in Southern Italy in the 8th and 7th centuries BC, exporting their culture, which would later influence the Roman world. They colonized…
Culture
by Magda Lauer |
Defying the bailiffs at birth Amadeo Modigliani is remembered as much for his ‘story’ and his behaviour as his paintings. He was born on 12th July in 1884 on a…