La vita italiana

Located on the west bank of the Tiber, south of Vatican City, Trastevere is a world apart. For centuries, this district was disconnected from central Rome, geographically and administratively. Low taxes and light regulation attracted Italians from farflung regions. Most …

Tuscan people are usually amiable and friendly, but they can also be very competitive and mocking, especially when it comes to horse racing. In several small Italian towns, from northern to southern regions, the typical horse races known as Palio …

When we think of jazz music, we usually think of New Orleans or, more generally, of the southern United States where it originated in the late 19th and early 20th century. When we think of jazz in Italy, we also …

What is the secret of longevity? Sometimes it may be a life full of passion, adventure, and dedication to family and work, as it was Licia Albanese’s. On August 15, 2014, the Italian-born operatic soprano Felicia Albanese peacefully passed away …

By some accounts, to say that Salieri and Mozart were professional rivals, is putting it mildly.  A rivalry between Mozart and Salieri was well known and is believed to have originated when Mozart applied to be the voice teacher of …

As far back as we know, to the days of the ancient empire, it seems that the Romans have been very good at enjoying their free time. Nothing has changed. It’s called the “Estate Romana”, literally “The Roman Summer”, an …

Rome would not have been the same “Eternal City” or “Caput Mundi” without its first emperor. August 19 marks the 2,000th anniversary of the death of Emperor Augustus. Many exciting exhibitions will be available to the public for the very …

There has been a great deal of talk about why Majority Leader Eric Cantor of Virginia was defeated in a primary since he had little support from his own Republican Party. There is even speculation that his different viewpoints on …

Love is the theme at this summer’s Festival Puccini, dedicated to the magnificent Tuscan composer. Torre del Lago celebrates the 60th anniversary of this festival, where love emanates through Puccini’s music.  This is the only festival in the world dedicated …

People have always danced. Dancing is a way to get loose, have fun, and express oneself. But for some, dancing is more than that; it’s a passion and a mission. Italy’s most famous and talented ballet dancer is Roberto Bolle, …