Traditions

It is nice — and unsurprising — to know that in this period of reflection and prayer, Italians have never quite forgotten about their kitchens. And so, we learn that the  first Easter chocolate eggs were created in Turin in …

For Christian Catholics, Holy Week is the most spiritually pregnant moment of the year, even more than Christmastime. But in Italy, this is a time resonant with meaning among people who don’t believe, too: Holy Week is a time of …

Up to 1963 the proud region of Abruzzo was not a region in its own right, but cohabited with Molise, even if Frederick of Swabia had already, in 1233, created the Giustiziere d’Abruzzo, identifying the region’s territory.   Abruzzo became …

Let’s be honest, it’s not only kids who love chocolate eggs: we all do! Indeed, the egg has a very ancient symbolism: it always represented life, the fulcrum of universal elements, both in pagan and Christian traditions.   Easter egg tradition …

It is all manner of libation which has been delivered to my table after having asked for “Spritz, please,” still white wine mixed with sparkling soda water; red wine with still mineral water and fruit slices (something more akin, perhaps, …

The Etruscans are one of the most fascinating pre-Roman civilizations but, puzzlingly, also one of those we know the least about: the real Etruscan mystery is that of their origin and of their language,  both  of which remain largely unknown, …

I Play is the only way the highest intelligence of humankind can unfold.” - Joseph Chilton Pearce  Humans have been playing games forever. Even without evidence of proof, I wouldn’t be surprised if Adam initiated the first game of Solitaire before Eve …

It’s sunny in San Francisco on the Saturday afternoon before Memorial Day. Matteo comes to San Francisco from San Luis Obispo, before taking a flight to Chicago the next day. Matteo and I have been in touch for a few …

Five biplanes dive down into their targets. The head of the group noses up and makes a full loop, while the others fringe off while turning upside down, only to dive down once more. Their trajectories criss cross those of …

Chocolate eggs are stacked high in supermercati, Colomba dove cakes decorate pasticcerie windows and lambs are being made ready for the dining table. But away from the well-known traditions of an Italian Easter there are many different ways to celebrate. …