Staff

Today’s word, impeccabile (eem-pek-kah-bee-lai) is something you want to be associated with anything you do. It comes from the Latin impeccabilis, which combines the prefix “in-” (meaning “not”) with peccare (meaning “to sin” or “to make a mistake”). Thus, its …

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Exploring the traditions of Lent in Italy can lead us down a path of rituals deeply connected both with Christian beliefs and local customs.  In Puglia, for instance, many families practice a curious rite involving … a grater. Il rito …

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Today’s word, raffinato(rahf-fee-nah-toh) truly embodies elegance, sophistication, and a touch of luxury.  Raffinato was first attested as an adjective (so it has a feminine and plural form, too) in the 16th century, and comes from the Italian verb raffinare, which …

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Cartapesta (kar-tah peh-stah) means papier-mâché in English and, with coriandoli and maschera is the most quintessential of all Carnevale words. It comes from the union of carta (paper) and pesta (pounded), which reveals what it is: a concoction of paper …

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…Say the title out loud and every Italian will think immediately about the popular advertisement campaigns from the 1980s and 1990s, that saw Raffaella Carrà first and then Lorella Cuccarini support Scavolini kitchens on TV. Iconic! Scavolini’s journey, however, started much earlier, …

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Who doesn’t enjoy a glass or two of bubbly every once in a while? Champagne or prosecco, dry or sweet, bubbles are key, so it’s not a surprise that ensuring there are many (and that they last) has been the …

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Gambling was a pervasive aspect of Venetian life, reflecting the city’s wealth and status as a major cultural and trade hub. In Venice, everyone gambled everywhere: people engaged in games of chance in private homes, public squares, and during festivals, …

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Gaeta is a picturesque town on the Tyrrhenian coast of Italy known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking natural landscapes, which make it a beloved tourist destination. Located in the Lazio region, in the province of Latina, Gaeta …

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Monteleone d’Orvieto is a lovely hamlet located in the Umbria region, not far from the border with Tuscany. The closest larger town is Città della Pieve, about 10 kilometers away, which is itself a little jewel of art and history. …

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The Battaglia delle Arance, or the Battle of the Oranges, is a unique and lively tradition held annually in Ivrea, a town in Italy’s Piedmont region. This event is part of the town’s historical carnival and takes place over three …

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