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The Italian expression non ci sto (non tchi stoh) translates to “I don’t agree” or “I won’t stand for it” in English. It is often used to express firm disagreement or rejection of a proposal, situation, or idea.  The phrase …

Collodi is a small yet charming village in Tuscany, between the well-known towns of Lucca and Pistoia. Located about 15 kilometers from Lucca, it is a popular stop for travelers exploring the rolling hills and historic towns of Tuscany. But …

The Italian word siccome  (seek-koh-mai) started being used in the second half of the 13th century, and is the union of two other Italian adverbs, sì and come. It must have become popular immediately, as even Dante and Petrarca used it! …

The Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella is both one of the oldest pharmacies in the world, and a symbol of Florentine heritage, tradition, and craftsmanship. For over 400 years, this legendary institution has been making exquisite perfumes, skincare products, …

Truffle hunting is an ancient tradition rooted in Roman times, when the Romans regarded truffles as a delicacy, and attributed their mysterious growth to divine forces. While truffles have been prized for millennia, the formal tradition of truffle hunting as …

The mechanical pencil is a sleek and efficient writing tool with an Italian heart, as it was created by the company Aurora, a renowned manufacturer of fine writing instruments. Founded in Turin in 1919 by Isaia Levi, Aurora quickly became …

Altomonte is a small village in Calabria, southern Italy, known for its medieval charm, historical significance, and cultural wealth. Located in the province of Cosenza, it is around 38 miles northwest of the city.  While somewhat off the beaten path, …

The Ottobrata Zafferanese is one of the most important gastronomic festivals in southern Italy, held every Sunday in October in the town of Zafferana Etnea, located on the eastern slopes of Mount Etna. This year, the 44th edition takes place …

Balsamic vinegar originated in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, particularly the cities of Modena and Reggio Emilia, where it has been produced for centuries.  Its invention dates back to at least the Middle Ages, with the first written records mentioning …

Accipicchia (atch-tchi-peek-eeah)  is a playful and colorful interjection in the Italian language, often used to express surprise, amazement, or mild frustration. It’s a term that embodies the expressive flair of the language and that can add a sense of lightheartedness …