francesca bezzone

At its zenith during the 2nd century AD, the Roman Empire was a vast and diverse entity, encompassing territories across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East; estimates suggest that its population ranged from approximately 59 to 76 million people, …

The bond between Italian music and America has always been strong, with melodies and traditions crossing oceans and blending cultures. Among the many iconic songs linked to this connection, That’s Amore is probably among the most iconic. Performed by the …

The Trevi Fountain is one of the most iconic symbols of Rome. Known for its grandeur and elaborate Baroque design, this fountain is a cultural and historical symbol of the Eternal City. Recently, after extensive restoration, it has reopened to …

Giuseppe Verdi is one of Italy’s greatest composers, a symbol of national pride whose music has left an indelible mark on both the operatic tradition and Italian identity.  Born in 1813 in Le Roncole, a small village in Parma, Verdi …

When I was a child, I loved the sound of church bells. My grandmother would explain to me what each different ring meant—whether it was calling people to Mass, announcing a wedding, or marking a solemn event. For me, bells …

Chances are that, if you watched a movie set in Sicily, you unknowingly heard the unmistakable, twangy sound of the scacciapensieri.  Small and unassuming, it is known as “jaw harp” or “Jew’s harp” in English, and produces a metallic vibration …

The Catholic Jubilee, also known as the Holy Year, is a significant tradition in the Roman Catholic Church, as it offers believers a dedicated period for forgiveness, spiritual renewal, and the remission of sins. Its roots lie in the biblical …

The Canto a Tenore tradition is an ancient vocal style from Sardinia, recognized as one of the island’s most exceptional cultural expressions. This vocal art form reflects the island’s pastoral heritage, and was declared a Masterpiece of the Oral and …

The twin cities of Gorizia in Italy and Nova Gorica in Slovenia have been jointly designated as the European Capital of Culture for 2025, in an unprecedented move that created the first cross-border capitale della cultura since the initiative’s establishment …

The 75th edition of the Festival di Sanremo concluded only a few days ago, with 23-year-old Olly from Genoa securing victory with his ballad Maledetta Nostalgia. As is customary for Sanremo winners, Olly’s track has swiftly ascended to the top …