Archive for 'Emilia-Romagna'

Cemeteries always seem like strange things to recommend as tourist attractions and, yet, many of the world's most famous tourist destinations are tombs, graveyards and catacombs of some description. From the pyramids of Egypt to the Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris, there are a great number of iconic burial places around the world. One of the most unique cemeteries in the world, however, is probably not as familiar; the San Cataldo Cemetery in Modena, or rather the fascinating ossuary built there. Its striking appearance is truly incredible and is sure to remain in the memory forevermore. Once you have found a villa with pool in Emilia-Romagna and are exploring the city, make time to see this extraordinary structure for yourself.

Though never completed, construction was begun in 1972 under Italian architect and theorist Aldo Rossi with the focal point of the structure being the central square building, which was created to illustrate a number of abstract concepts Rossi had previously written about.

There are many beautiful coastlines, dotted with resorts and offering holidays jam-packed with adventure, sea, sand and fun, all around the world. Some are particularly famous, like the glamorous French Riviera.

However, one particular stretch of coast in Italy is called the “Riviera of Fun”, also known as the Adriatic Riviera or the Romagna Riviera, in Emilia Romagna, is one of the country's best-known resort areas and very much befits its nickname.

Perhaps not the most elegant of places, or where to head if you are looking for peace and solitude but if you are looking for fun and the quintessential Italian seaside experience, there could be no better destination. Just find a vacation rental in Emilia Romagna and explore this Italian favourite for yourself.

Finally, here are the last of our round-up of the best foodie experiences that any food-lovers visiting Italy will not want to miss out on during their next visit. Take note, add them to your itinerary and thank us later.

Venice is one of the most romantic cities in the world and is a hugely popular honeymoon destination. It is only fitting, therefore that perhaps the most romantic dining experience in all of Italy is available in the city: galleon dinner cruises that take place on the Venetian lagoon. It is the perfect way to see a little of the city while enjoying good food and soaking up the romantic atmosphere, all at the same time. The boats are in the style of the typical traditional Venetian galleon that was used during the time of the Venice Republic, between 1600 and 1800, and they go out on cruises along the canals and around the islands of the lagoon.

Italy is an absolute paradise for food lovers and, as a result, we decided that it might be a good idea to compile a list of foodie experiences that are a must for those holidaying in the land of crowd pleasing meals.

If you feel like eating the best ice-cream in the world, for example, you should find a luxury villa in San Gimignano, as, located in the central Piazza della Cisterna, is the Gelateria Dondoli or Gelateria di Piazza. This little shop is known all over the world and has been visited by a large number of celebrities over the years. It has won countless awards, invents flavour combinations that attract gourmet-lovers to the town on a regular basis and has made it World Champion on two occasions. Arguably, this is one of the best places in the entire world to try some ice-cream. Owned by Sergio Dondoli, one of just ten Master Ice-cream Makers in Italy today, the gelateria places importance on passion and creativity and they are constantly innovating new flavours and recipes.

Italy is known as a world-class leader in art and design. Many movements and styles were born or mastered in Italy over the century. The Renaissance, in particular, forever changed art and architecture in the western world. However, for all of the architectural gems that exist in Italy, there are also some rather bizarre buildings. These might, equally, be beautiful but are definitely odd.

One of the strangest architectural ventures in Italy is the Rocchetta Mattei, a magnificent castle located in the northern part of the Tosco-Emiliano Apennines, in the province of Bologna. It is an exceptionally eccentric building that speaks to its former owner, a similarly strange character. The earl Cesare Mattei, who had the castle built in the 19th century, was the inventor of "electrohomeopathy," a medical practice said to cure cancer. His methods have been largely debunked but he showed his eccentricity in his personal life and tastes as well, as can be seen throughout the castle.