Italy and the Written Word: Places to Celebrate Writing History
From ancient Latin script to modern fonts, Italy has contributed greatly to the history of the written word. Visit these places to learn more.
Blessing the Animals in Assisi on the Feast Day of Sant’Antonio Abate
The Piatto di Sant’Antonio Abate is a winter festival near Assisi that features a parade of horses and a blessing of animals.
The Man, the Myth, the Legend: Saint Valentine of Terni
Saint Valentine, a Christian bishop from Terni, Umbria, was martyred in Rome during the 3rd century AD. Learn more about his life, death, and legend.
Will Work For Wine: Luca Signorelli’s Orvieto Duomo Contract and His Intoxicating, Apocalyptic Fresco Cycle
In 1499, Tuscan artist Luca Signorelli signed a contract to paint two remaining sections of the Cappella Nuova (new chapel) of the Duomo in the Umbrian town of Orvieto. By 1502 (or 1504, depending on which documentation you read), he had completed his “End of the World” fresco cycle in what is now known as the…
One Year in Italy: 12 Months of Memories
A month-by-month, personal account of my first year living in Italy.