Archive for 'Localities'

The Renaissance gave birth to an endless list of extraordinary artworks, architectural gems and feats of ingenuity. In things such as garden design, in particular, some incredibly beautiful creations came to light in this period, one of which is the Villa Demidoff and its gardens. Located about seven miles north of Florence, the gardens are home to many different sculptures, fountains and various other delights but one of the highlights has to be the Appennine Colossus. Measuring about 35 feet tall, the Colossus is a personification of the Apennine mountain ranges, and is depicted as a blend between mountain and man, its smooth skin emerging out of the surrounding mountainous setting. This immense sculpture by the great Giambologna is actually even more fascinating than it appears at first glance; it is also a building, with chambers hidden inside, and a water feature. For lovers of the Renaissance, those interested in art and people intrigued by secret passageways and buildings, it is definitely a must-see. Just find a luxury villa in Florence and make time to visit the gardens of Villa Demidoff to go in search of this exceptional gem.     Read More

Walking around Milan – maybe going for a spot of shopping, trying local food and wine or visiting museums and tourist attractions – you might be surprised by a certain sculpture that you could easily just stumble across. In the bustling centre of the city, the Piazza Affari, or Business Square, facing the stock-exchange, there is a giant middle finger – and it is pointed right at the building that serves as the financial headquarters of the country and its occupants.

The sculpture was donated to the city by Italy's most famous contemporary artist, Maurizio Cattelan, on the one condition that it would be placed in this particular location and, surprisingly, the Mayor agreed.

If you have a bit of a cheeky side and love art, this is one more reason to find a vacation rental in Milan and visit the city.     Read More

Our last article looked at the museum culture of Italy that is so important for tourism, is a big reason why many people visit the country and is, certainly, something people expect to experience when they visit.

However, the downside is that museums, galleries and cultural attractions can often have long lines and be extremely busy. So, for those who want to take in Italian culture but can't deal with the tourist crowds, we have compiled a list of some amazing museums around the country that have lots to offer without the madness.

The last post discussed Mantua's archaeological museum and a very special exhibition there and the Canova Museum in Possagno and this article will give you some more examples of lesser-known, but special, museums in Italy.     Read More

Our last article discussed some of the amazing spa destinations and glamorous getaways that Italy has to offer but any single post on this topic could only dip a toe into the vast thermal waters of the unending list of amazing spa towns that the country has to offer.

While Ischia Island has beautiful scenery and popularity with celebrities to recommend it and Salsomaggiore Terme is home to one of the greatest architectural gems any spa destination in the world can boast and a history of being the spa town of choice of emperors, there are many others to be discovered.

Read on for some more relaxing, beautiful and fascinating spa towns in Italy.     Read More