Archive for 'History'

Those who are interested in archaeology and who are planning a trip to Italy will find themselves in no short supply of incredible archaeological sites and museums to visit. Considering the country's long and complex past, with many different periods of rule and civilizations, it makes sense that these archaeological institutions are dotted all over the country and, among them, are some of the most famous examples in the world. For every Pompeii and Colosseum, however, there are also endless local sites worth perusing. If you have found a vacation rental in Sicily, for example, you may want to head to the island of Isola di San Pantaleo, which is basically one great archaeological site called Mozia, to explore the past.

Mozia can be reached by ferries that launch from two spots on the lagoon shore between Marsala and Trapani. Run by two different companies, these ferries leave and return continuously throughout the day (except during lunch) and return tickets cost around five euros. When you get to the island, you will find a ticket office by the ferry jetty where you can pay for admission to the island and museum. On the island are basic facilities like a restroom, benches, a water fountain to get a drink, and a little cafe serving pastries, pizza, and some other small bits to eat and drink.

Rome is home to a treasure trove of ancient monuments and architectural gems all throughout the city. However, most are buzzing tourist attractions that are steeped in modernity. Of course, you shouldn't miss out on the city's famous sights if you have found a luxury villa in Rome but, if you want to fall back in time and enjoy a little bit of peace and quiet, why not pay a visit to the Parco degli Acquedotti?

The Parco degli Acquedotti (Park of the Aqueducts) is a 240-hectare protected green space, located in the Appia Antica Regional Park, just on the outskirts of Rome. Just take a Metro line A to Lucio Sestio or Giulio Agricola and you'll find the park entrance after about a 10 minute walk. It is also a pleasant place to bring a picnic and one can rent bikes to better explore the whole park.

Sperlonga is a stunning seaside resort in the Latium region of Italy. Charming and full of character, it is a well-kept secret among locals and a long-held favoured holiday destinations among Romans. It is also one of the many sites of major Ancient Roman archaeological discoveries in Italy but boasts some especially fascinating finds. If you're interested in art, culture and ancient history, a vacation rental in Latium and a visit to the town is a must.

When one thinks of Ancient Roman monuments and architectural gems in Italy, Rome, itself, and Pompeii immediately come to mind. However, one of the most intact ancient Roman commemorative monuments is the Arch of Trajan, located in the town of Ancona, in the Le Marche region. While Italy has endless riches when it comes to cultural gems, this one is especially wonderful as it is far from tourist crowds and can be seen when ever you feel like it. If you are a history nut or just like a finely built structure, just track down a perfect vacation rental in Le Marche and come see this incredible monument for yourself, without having to queue or buy a ticket.

Montelupo Fiorentino is a pretty village, located just on the outskirts of Florence, that has been an important centre for handmade ceramics in Tuscany since the Middle Ages. Montelupo ceramics were traded and dispensed all across Europe and quickly became synonymous with quality and beautiful craftsmanship. Today, it is home to plenty of workshops still producing the pieces and a museum dedicated to the craft, the Museum of Ceramics in Montelupo. If you have found a vacation rental in Florence and are interested in Tuscany's long legacy of excellence in all of the arts but need a break from the busy historic centre and bustling museums of the city, this is a great place to soak up the region's history of artisanal prowess and even shop it, all while enjoying a slower pace and calmer lifestyle.