Archive for 'Churches & Religious Buildings'

Torba Monastery was originally built in the 5th century as a Roman stronghold against barbarian invasions and was used for military purposes under various rules and guises until it came into the possession of a group of Benedictine nuns in the 8th century. The building was expanded and adapted into a religious complex and the interiors were decorated with elaborate murals and frescoes.

Later still, the monastery fell into disuse as a religious building and was adopted by local farmers with far more practical goals in mind. They decided to cover the paintings with plaster and, in some cases, merely ignored the works, letting them fall into disrepair.

Much was lost, as a result, but some of the works managed to survive, despite the neglect. One particular example that remains has become famous and has led to the creation of lots of legends and rumours.

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.

The Medieval Village in Turin is a very special tourist attraction, the likes of which cannot be seen anywhere else. While you will find villages, towns and cities all across Italy that have medieval quartres or centres, they have all been altered to some degree by the passing of time and progress. The Medieval Village, placed in Valentino Park, however, is an unchanging glimpse into the past. Built in the 19th century, it may not actually be authentically medieval but it is a very faithful, perfect replica of a 15th century Piedmontese Village and the closest thing you will get to actually travelling back through time and space. For history lovers or those merely intrigued by novelty, the “village” is a beautiful architectural feat in a city of architectural feats that is sure to delight. Just find a vacation rental in Piedmont and you can spend a pleasant day exploring the city of Turin and this hidden curiosity.

The Church of San Pietro is a stunning little church, exceptionally popular for weddings, that is perched picturesquely on the tip of the promontory of Portovenere, surrounded by craggy rocks and cliffs and blue seas.

Once the site of a Temple to Venus (Venere in Italian), after whom the town of Portovenere was named, an early Christian building made of black marble was then built there in the 6th century.

In the 13th century a campanile and Gothic extension clad in bands of black and white stone were added to the earlier structure.

Small and a little rugged but very striking and framed by perfect scenery, it is a building that has captured imaginations for centuries and which continues to do so.

Vieste is a small but perfectly formed town that is located right on the very tip of the spur of Italy's boot. Positioned on the most eastern part on the Gargano peninsula of Italy, in the Puglia region, it is a charming little fishing village that offers stunning views and where you will find a surprisingly long list of things to see and do. Whitewashed buildings crowd up from the soft sand and blue seas of two beaches and the town is strategically placed atop the steep Pizzomunno cliffs.

The result resembles a cross between Naples and Dubrovnik and is at once Italian and a little more exotic. Outdoor pursuits and water sports, in particular, are on offer here for those who seek adventure but there are plenty of quieter and calmer activities as well. As such, it is a location that can cater for families, groups of friends and couples alike. For a dreamy seaside holiday in Italy, all you need to do is browse our vacation rentals in Vieste.