Jewels of Italy

Have you ever considered putting Italy on your “bucket list” of destinations? It is a country of great art, music, amazing food and beautiful scenery. They are very proud of their culture and traditions. Italians have an appreciation for life’s pleasures, while their openness lets travelers into Italy’s relaxed life style.

The “Eternal City” Rome is a city steeped in history and absolutely unique! You will need at least a week to explore this cities incredible architecture and history. The history of the Vatican City State is colorful, controversial and complex. It is the world’s smallest country, at just 109 acres and approx. 800 people! It has its own mint, post office, radio station, and legal system. St Peter’s Square is the gateway to the Vatican City. View the incredible Sistine Chapel and Castel Sant’Angelo.

The most famous monument in Rome is known as the Coliseum was founded in 80 A.D. Nowadays we see just a skeleton of what was the greatest arena in the ancient world. It had four floors in splendid travertine stone slabs and splendid arches.

Visit the Trevi Fountain known as a fantastic work of art; a jewel of water and stone that is nestled between the palaces in the historic centre of the city. Another popular landmark is the very famous Spanish Steps. It is an architectural feat with its ramps and stairs that intersect and open out like a fan.

A leisurely trip through the Tuscany region is well worth the time. Visit vineyards, olive groves, small rural villages and quaint shops.  Drive to Vinci, the birthplace of that true Renaissance genius, Leonardo. The city of Pisa is close so you can get a snapshot of pretending to hold up the Tower of Pisa.

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Wander through Florence with its timeless beauty. Traffic is banned from the historic centre so a walking tour is the best way to appreciate this amazing city. The walled city of Assisi is a definite stop to admire the remarkable treasures of the magnificent basilica and stunning views.

Drive the Amalfi Coast which is a breathtaking two lane highway overlooking the ocean and rugged coastline. The horizon becomes illumined with bright village pastels and lemon groves. 

Set on a plateau above the waters of the Bay of Naples is the city of Sorrento. Enjoy walking the maze of streets, shop in the many boutiques or just sit and enjoy a glass of wine in an outdoor café. Take a boat ride over to the Isle of Capri which is a mecca for the jet-set and wealthy.

The very old city of Pompeii is where a deadly volcanic eruption happened in 79 A.D. Excavations have unearthed a stunning well- preserved picture of daily Roman life. See the remains of luxurious villas, temples, theatre and forum. It is a vision to experience of days gone by!

The city of Venice looks more like a film set than a real live city. It is a fascinating system of criss-crossing canals, gondolas and water buses, arched bridges, palaces, and piazzas. Glide along the canal with a local troubadour to serenade you.  Watch local Venetian glassblowers fashion their delicate objects as they did centuries ago. Take a walking tour to avoid line-ups to enter St Mark’s Basilica, an architectural heritage. Visit the adjoining prisons of Doge’s Palace. Explore back streets and narrow passageways as you learn about historical Venice from your experienced and knowledgeable guide.

Of course, visiting Italy and not tasting their delicious pizza would be a sad day. It is made up of a thin crust, tomato sauce of Marzano tomatoes, oregano or basil, garlic, salt and olive oil.  The pizza is cooked in a wood fired oven.  Sit and enjoy with the nice chilled glass of Italian wine and remember only in Italy would I experience a pizza this good!

Lynda Spriggs, Lobstick Travel and Tours.