Rome Tour guide
Ancient Rome Tour
Welcome to the Eternal City! Our tour guides are at your disposal to take you through interesting routes of Ancient Rome Tour. Your personal Rome tour guide will show you the famous Colosseum, the largest amphitheater that can accommodate up to 70,000 spectators. Symbol of the city of Rome and of Italy, it was for gladiator fights, hunting shows, naval battles and executions. The Coliseum is located on the lake of the Domus Aurea, the residence of the emperor Nero, at the eastern edge of the Roman Forum. By accessing the Via dei Fori Imperiali enter into the heart of ancient Rome. Crossing the Sacred Way, the oldest road where passing triumphant generals and emperors victorious, you will encounter the Temple of Peace, the Temple of Antoninus and Faustina, the Temple of Venus and Rome, Temple of the deified Romulus. The Sacred Way continues towards the Capitol hill and then climbs up to one of the most charming places in Rome: the Palatine hill. According to a legend the basket containing the twins Romulus and Remus would have been transported by the waters of the Tiber River in the Lupercal, a cave at the foot of the Palatine. Another hill closely linked to the legend of the twins Romulus and Remus is the Aventine. The Aventine actually looks like an upscale neighborhood, known for the Rose Garden, the Garden of Oranges and especially for the "hole of Rome", the lock most popular in the world, from which it is possible by combining the eye, enjoy a unique view of the dome of St. Peter. In the valley between the Palatine Hill and the Aventine Hill you can admire the Circus Maximus, one of the greatest buildings of all time. According to legend, right here would come the rape of the Sabine women. Near the Circus Maximus, your personal tour guide will show you the Baths of Caracalla, the most magnificent example and best preserved building of ancient Roman baths. You will then be guided along the Via Appia, the first and most important of Roman roads. Along the road were built many buildings that tell the history of Rome, including the Aurelian Walls and the great mausoleum of Cecilia Metella. Located in the Appian area there are the most important and largest catacombs in Rome: the Catacombs of San Callisto, the Catacombs of San Sebastiano and the Catacombs of Santa Domitilla.
- Guided tour of Rome
The guided tour of the Campus Martius in Rome with our tour guides allows you to observe and understand how the modern city is shaped on the oldest. The itinerary includes the famous Piazza Navona, the ancient stadium of the emperor Domitian, the Pantheon, the Basilica of Neptune, the Baths of Agrippa and the Area Sacra of Largo Argentina. Admire the most beautiful and best preserved monuments of the city of Rome. Today the Field of Mars is the historic center of the city. In Roman times it was a flat area outside the Servian Wall. Stretched between the Capitoline Hill to the south, the River Tiber to the west, the Quirinal Hill to the east and the Pincio hill to the north. It was born as an area dedicated to the warrior god Mars and it was intended for military training of soldiers. From the second century BC were built temples, theaters, baths, theaters and mausoleums. The most impressive complex that was built in this area is the stadium of Domitian in Piazza Navona. It was built by the emperor Domitian between 81 and 86 AD and it was intended to athletic contests. In the following centuries the square became the hub of city life. In 1644 Pope Innocent X commissioned Girolamo Rainaldi the construction of the Palazzo Pamphili, Bernini the construction of the masterpiece of Baroque art, the Fountain of the Four Rivers, and Borromini the construction of the church of St. Agnes in Agony. A short distance from Piazza Navona we admire the Pantheon. The temple was built by Agrippa between 27 and 25 BC and it is dedicated to all the gods. In 609 AD it was transformed into the church of Santa Maria ad Martyrs by Pope Boniface IV. Then we will head to the Basilica of Neptune, the Baths of Agrippa and the Temple of Isis. We will visit the church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva and the church of Santo Stefano del Cacco. The tour will conclude with Largo Argentina. It was the most important sacred area of Rome in Republican times. Here you will find the Temple of Feronia, the Temple of Juturna, the Temple of the Lares Permarini and the Temple of Fortuna Huiusce Diei.
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Palatine Hill Tour
The Palatine Hill Tour is one of the most charming places in Rome. More than any other place is closely linked to the legends of the founding of the city of Rome. Virgil, in Aeneid, tells the mysterious story of King Evander and his son Pallas who received Aeneas fled from Troy and arrived in Latium, right on the hill. According to another legend the basket containing Romulus and Remus would have been transported by the waters of the riverTiber in a cave at the foot of the Palatine Hill, later known as the Lupercal. Here the two children were suckled by the wolf and later found by a shepherd who raised them Faustulus with his wife Acca Larentia. Romulus became an adult, he chose this place to found the city of Rome and lived in a house, identified in a hut called Casa di Romolo in the southwest corner of the Palatine hill. Cults and religious festivals of ancient traditions were connected with the hill in particular that of the Lupercalia, in which priests-wolves, dressed in goatskins were going towards the Tiber and made the circuit of the Palatine, striking the married women as a fertility rite. The name of the Palatine has the same root as that of the goddess Pales which was dedicated to the feast of Palilia, which was held April 21 and coincided with the founding of Rome. The mythical and sacred character of the Palatine, drove the emperor Augustus, who was born at the foot of the hill, to choose him as a residence. In late Republican Palatine became the residential area where he lived much of the ruling class. Augustus bought the house of the famous orator Hortensius Hortalus, located next to the so-called "House of Romolo" Part of the house was given to his wife Livia, the "house of Livia". The house of Augustus, with the adjoining temple of Apollo, his patron deity, shows the will of the emperor to appear as the second founder of Rome. After the emperors Augustus became natural to reside on the Palatine. We identified the imperial palaces of Tiberius, Nero, and Flavian of Septimius Severus.
Rome Tour Guide
Capitoline Museums Tour
The Capitoline Museums are considered the first museum in the world. The historical site consists of the Palace of the Conservatives and the New Palace, the buildings that overlook the Michelangelo's Piazza del Campidoglio.
The Capitoline Museums are the main municipal museum in Rome and are considered the oldest public museum in the world. The creation of the museum dates back to 1471, when Pope Sixtus IV donated to the city of Rome, an important collection of bronzes from the Lateran, including the famous Capitoline Wolf. Masterpieces of the Capitoline Museums are on display in the Senatorial Palace, the Palace of the Conservatori and the New Palace. These splendid buildings, which surround the famous Piazza del Campidoglio by Michelangelo, are connected by an underground tunnel which houses the Lapidary Gallery and leads to the ancient Tabularium, whose monumental arches overlook the Roman Forum. In 1997 it opened a branch in the former Montemartini Power Plant on the Via Ostiense, fine blend of industrial archeology and classical works. Among the most famous works that can be seen at the Capitoline Museums include the Head of Medusa by Bernini, the Statue of Galata Capitoline and the Capitoline Wolf. The most famous work that is preserved is the equestrian statue of the Emperor Marcus Aurelius. You will discover the origins of the Roman Empire and admire the feats of its emperors like Julius Caesar and Octavian. The Art Gallery contains works of Caravaggio, Guercino, Tintoretto, Titian and Rubens. Admire two famous paintings by Caravaggio. These include "The Fortune Teller" (a gypsy who reads the hand to the knight and simultaneously steals the ring) "John the Baptist" also known as Young with mutton. You will be fascinated by the large canvas by Guercino, the Burial of Saint Petronilla, and the nucleus of paintings by Guido Reni and Pietro da Cortona.
Rome Tour Guide
Rome Tour
This guided tour will lead you in the heart of the Renaissance and Baroque Rome. You can admire the Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps with Fontana della Barcaccia and Trinità dei Monti, the Pincio, Villa Medici, Casina Valadier, Piazza del Popolo with its church of Santa Maria del Popolo. You'll be awestruck by the works of Pinturicchio, Caravaggio, the Carracci, Bernini and Bramante. Today, the district is the center of the most famous boutiques and nightlife. The guided tour will let you know the elegance of Rome between the current evidence of the past. In the Renaissance the area aroused the interest of the Popes. It was rebuilt the aqueduct of the Virgin Mary and were created via del Babbuino and via Ripetta the sides of the Via del Corso. The three streets converge towards Piazza del Popolo and its obelisk at the edge of the Aurelian Walls. This stretch of defensive walls which today is called Muro Torto in the Middle Ages had the nickname "ruptus" for his state of complete abandonment. The walls are lined with ancient church of Santa Maria del Popolo. We will visit Piazza di Spagna with its famous stairway and the Fontana della Barcaccia by Pietro Bernini, father of Gian Lorenzo. Elegance is the main feature of the square. In his literary cafes have met artists and philosophers of every age and generation. Stayed here Keats and Shelley, De Chirico and Guttuso. Nearby you can go shopping in the famous atelier of Valentino, Dolce and Gabbana, Gucci and Fendi. We will continue our tour with the famous Trevi Fountain. It is the most majestic of the Roman fountains and known for its tradition of throwing coins to ensure your return to Rome. The fountain was the beautiful setting of a scene from the famous Fellini film "The sweet life" in which a sexy Anita Ekberg wrapped in a black suit bathes in the waters of the fountain calling Marcello Mastroianni. The fountain commemorates the reconstruction of the Vergine aqueduct built by Agrippa in the first century BC.
Rome Tour guide
Route Baroque Rome
Welcome to the Eternal City! Below we offer you the best routes in the city of Rome. Book your guided tour of Baroque Rome. Our tour guides will be at your disposal to accompany you through the original paths. The Baroque in Rome is developed in 1630. It is a bizarre style. The key features of Baroque architecture are curved and sinuous lines. Ellipses and spirals intertwine and become almost indecipherable. Baroque has given rise to unique monuments. Beautiful is the Triton Fountain in Piazza Barberini made by Bernini in 1643. Bernini also designed Palazzo Montecitorio. Noteworthy is the Palazzo Barberini, one of the first buildings in Baroque style in Rome. Do not forget Piazza Navona. It was built on the ruins of the ancient stadium wanted the emperor Domitian. In the center of the square there is the beautiful Fountain of the Four Rivers: the Nile, the Ganges, the Danube and the Río de la Plata. Baroque is also the Church of St. Agnes with its beautiful sculptures. Nearby you can admire the church of S. Ivo alla Sapienza by Borromini and the spire of the Palazzo Spada. Another example of a square built in Baroque style is St. Peter's Square. It was made by Bernini between 1657 and 1667. It is an oval plaza with two oblique arms, placed at the edge of a trapezoidal shape. The square is surrounded by massive columns arranged in different rows. A special stage is the Galleria Borghese, in which are preserved some of the most famous sculptures by Bernini and paintings by Caravaggio and Domenichino. Among the Baroque churches are the Church of Jesus, the church of San Carlo alle Quattro Fontane, the church of Sant'Andrea della Valle and the churches of Santa Maria in Montesanto and Santa Maria dei Miracoli in Piazza del Popolo.
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Baths of Caracalla
The Roman Baths are the buildings which anticipated today's spa. They were crowded places. The access was almost always free. It was envisaged the division between men and women in different times and spaces. In these places it was possible to swim in hot or cold water. It was possible to do massage and gymnastic exercises. Here the Romans listened to lectures and readings, singing performances and music. The spa opened at noon and closed at sunset. The thermal path began with gymnastics in the gym or with the wrestling contests in outdoor spaces. Later, the Romans went into the tepidarium and calidarium. Finally entered the room warmer, the laconicum. After cleaning the body did a swim in the pool of frigidarium. Later, the Romans were engaged in the care of the spirit through the study of Greek and Latin libraries or seeing poetry readings and musical attractions. Every day from 9 am until one hour before sunset, you can book a guided tour of the Baths of Caracalla. You'll be amazed before the most impressive and best preserved building public baths of ancient Rome. For information and reservations, please contact our tour guides. The Baths of Caracalla are located near the Aventine Hill, near the Circus Maximus. They were made by Emperor Caracalla in 212 BC. They were powered by one of the most ancient Roman aqueducts, the Aqua Marcia. Could accommodate up to 1500 people. They have a rectangular shape, typical of the "great imperial baths." Four gates were located on the north eastern facade. On the central axis can be observed in the sequence caldarium, tepidarium, frigidarium and natatio. The Baths of Caracalla in 537 AD ceased to function. Today, the baths are the backdrop for numerous concerts including the one held on July 7, 1990 by The Three Tenors: Plácido Domingo, José Carreras and Luciano Pavarotti.
Rome Tour Guide
Underground Rome
In Rome, everyone knows the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, St. Peter's Basilica, the Trevi Fountain, Castel Sant'Angelo, the Vatican Museums and the numerous art galleries, but there is also a secret underground Rome. Would you like to visit the underground city of Rome? There are hundreds of archaeological groundwater sites, water works, underground passages between the historic buildings, underground churches and basilicas. There are very special places like mitrei, places of worship of the Roman period dedicated to the god Mithras. In the guided tours that are proposed will have the chance to get in underground places not normally accessible. Nearby the Roman Forum you can visit the Cloaca Maxima, a masterpiece of Roman engineering and architecture that dates back to the Kings of Rome. After 2500 years it still works well. Descend to a depth of 12 meters above street level of modern Rome. Below Piazza Navona is the Stadium of Domitian, which in Roman times housed curious athletics events and poetry readings. A must is a visit to the Auditorium of Maecenas, large underground area below via Merulana. Extraordinary is the Mithraeum of Ara Massima of Hercules near the Basilica of Santa Maria in Cosmedin, known for the famous Bocca della Verità. The archaeological site of San Clemente is one of the most interesting in Rome for his ability to cross the ages, thanks to the various underground levels. You can visit the Roman Houses of Celio, beneath the Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo, rich domus with spa and well-preserved frescoes. Below the Basilica of St. Grisogono in Trastevere and San Clemente al Celio is possible to go deeper and deeper to learn about the origins, the paintings and decorations of these sacred sites, visited by pilgrims from all over the world. Is the world of the dead, the protagonist of Rome Underground and secret. Do not miss the Tombs of Via Latina, a vast underground area consists of beautifully decorated tombs with frescoes and stucco. Near the Basilica of St. Poalo Outside the Walls will be escorted to the amazing necropolis Ostiense. In the Park of Scipio is a small underground room decorated with colorful mosaics and stucco called Columbarium of Pomponius Hylas.
Rome Tour guide
Castel Sant'Angelo
Guided tour of Castel Sant'Angelo. It is one of the oldest and most characteristic monuments of the city of Rome. The appointment with our tour guides is opposite the entrance to the Castle. We are located on the right bank of the Tiber River, not very far from the Vatican. We are in front of the fortified corridor called in Roman dialect "Er Corridore". Castel Sant'Angelo has a long history. It was the mausoleum of Emperor Hadrian, a fortress prison and a papal residence. The Mausoleum of Hadrian was begun in 125 AD and terminated in 139 AD by emperor Antoninus Pius. It stood in front of the Campus Martius and the Bridge. This bridge, perfectly preserved, today is known as the Ponte Sant'Angelo. The original work was very different from what you can see today. It was initially commissioned by the Roman Emperor Hadrian as a mausoleum for himself and his family. Hadrian's ashes were placed here a year after his death in Baiae in 138 AD, together with those of his wife Sabina, and his first adopted son, Lucius Aelius. Following this, the remains of succeeding emperors were also placed here, the last recorded deposition being Caracalla in 217 AD. Originally the mausoleum was a decorated cylinder, with a garden top and golden quadriga. It was covered by dense vegetation of trees and surrounded by marble statues. It was similar to Mausoleum of Augustus. The external facade was covered with marble and on it appeared the inscriptions of the people buried inside. Subsequently the building lost its original function of tomb becoming a fortress for the defense of Rome. In the tenth century it was transformed into a castle. Over the years it was used as a place of refuge for popes and imprisonment. In 1277 it became the property of the Vatican. Today it houses the National Museum of Castel Sant'Angelo. The Angel of the eighteenth century bronze which gives its name to the castle comes from an old legend that dates back to the terrible plague of 590. According to the history of the plague ended thanks to the appearance of an angel, later identified as Saint Michael. He rested on the mausoleum and put his sword back into its sheath. This was the symbol of grace granted. Still preserved in the Museum is a circular stone with the footprints left by the Archangel when he stopped to announce the end of the plague.
Rome Tour guide
Ara Pacis
Alternate Text: In the historical center of Rome, a few steps from the Spanish Steps, is the Ara Pacis: marble altar dedicated to Peace Emperor Augustus in 9 AD
Rome, Ancient Rome Tour, Tour of Campus Martius, Tiber, Piazza Navona, Pantheon, Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain
The Ara Pacis is one of the most important examples of the Augustan. It is a marble altar dedicated in 9 BC by emperor Augustus to Peace to commemorate the glorious exploits of the provinces of Spain and Gaul. It was built along the Via Flaminia, on the border of the Campo Marzio, but the flood of the river Tiber, soon led to the burial of the Ara, whose memory was. In 1938, in view of the anniversary of the two thousandth anniversary of the birth of Augustus, it was decided the reconstruction entrusting archaeologist Giuseppe Moretti. Mussolini himself decided to put the Ara Pacis in a pavilion and place it near the Mausoleum of Augustus, between Ripetta and the Tiber in Augusta. The Ara Pacis is made up of a fence almost square marble, high on low podium, in the long sides of which two gates. The surface of the enclosure is fully embellished with relief decorations. Inside of the walls there were wreaths in relief while all' outside the wall is decorated on two levels: the lower one shows plant motifs, the top shows reliefs with allegorical figures. In the side walls depicts the Emperor Augustus that participates in a procession with all his family, during the day of 'inauguration of the Ara Pacis. The two panels of the main side represent the Lupercal and the Sacrifice of Aeneas Penates. Of this scene there are only a few fragments, but that allow us to reconstruct the legendary founding of Rome. Today the Museum of Pacis is the first work of architecture built in the historic center of Rome since the fall of fascism in our day. The project was entrusted to the American Richard Meier & Partners Architects. On 21 April 2006, on the occasion of the birth of Rome, the complex steel, travertine, glass and stucco was shown to the public. The Ara Pacis Museum is designed in view of the preservation of the monument, both from the environmental point of view and in the earthquake-proof system. It 'located on the left bank of the Tiber River, just halfway between the Vatican and the main tourist attractions of the city of Rome, such as Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, the Spanish Steps, the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain. A perfect starting point for exploring the wonders that Rome offers its visitors.
Pantheon and environs
You can book tours to the Pantheon. The guided tour of the Pantheon and its surroundings will wind through the Basilica of Santa Maria ad Martyrs, Piazza della Rotonda, the Basilica of Neptune, Piazza della Minerva and the facade of Santa Maria sopra Minerva. The appointment with our tour guide will be in front of the Basilica of Santa Maria ad Martyrs. The route will be curious and unusual. A journey through the history, legends and fantasy. The history of the Pantheon is tied to supernatural events. According to legend, the temple stands at the place where Romulus was seized by an eagle and taken to heaven among the gods. The Pantheon is dedicated to all the Roman gods, past, present and future. The name derives from two Greek words pan, "all" and theon "gods". It is the best preserved Roman temple. The temple has the largest dome in the history of architecture and is considered the forerunner of all modern places of worship. In antiquity it was the work most imitated. The building is inscribed in a perfect sphere. The Romans called it the “Rotonna”. The height is equal to its diameter and measuring 43,44 m to 43,44 m. Upon entering you will be struck by a beam of light that illuminates the entire building. It filters through the circular opening on the top of the dome. In case of rain, the water enters the building and then disappears in the 22 holes of the floor. The first construction of the Pantheon is due to Agrippa. It was built between 27 and 25 BD. The current phase is due to Emperor Hadrian between 118 and 125 AD. On the lintel we read: M•AGRIPPA•L•F•COS•TERTIVM•FECIT, namely Marcus Agrippa Lucii filius consul tertium fecit. "Marcus Agrippa, son of Lucius, consul for the third time, built." A second inscription records the restoration of the emperors Septimius Severus and Caracalla in 202 AD. The dome had to call up the sky. Inside, the space is divided into three naves. When the Roman Empire fell the Pantheon was abandoned. In 608 Phocas, Emperor of Byzantium, sold it to Boniface IV, who turned it in the Basilica of Santa Maria ad Martyrs. Subsequently also had the function of fort. Later it had the function of the shrine of the king of Italy.
Rome Tour guide
Piazza Venezia
Visit the famous sights of the city of Rome. Book your guided tour. Start your tour at Piazza Venezia and discover the history of the capital of the Roman Empire. Along the way the tour guide will tell you stories and historical anecdotes of the many fountains, palaces and squares hidden in every corner of the city. You will begin your visit to Piazza Venezia. It is one of the most famous squares of the city of Rome. It is located at the foot of Capitol Hill, at the intersection of Via dei Fori Imperiali, Via del Corso and Via del Plebiscito. The current appearance of the square dates from the late '800 and early '900. At the center of the square stands the Complesso del Vittoriano, a colossal monument in honor of King Vittorio Emanuele II, also known as the Altar of the Fatherland. This monument was built in 1885 by Giuseppe Sacconi. It is not very pleasing to the Romans. Here are the remains of the Unknown Soldier, in memory of the fallen soldiers during the First World War have never been identified. The monument has a neoclassic style. It is inspired by Pergamon Altar and the Temple of Palestrina. The space is designed as a setting that celebrates the period of the Italian Renaissance. For the realization of the complex were demolished older buildings including the monastery dell'Aracoeli, the Tower of Paul III, and the splendid residence of the Torlonia. The square is also home to the Palazzo Venezia, the former papal seat, from which during Carnival, Pope Julius II watched the horse race barbs, which took place along the Via del Corso. Up to 1914 served as the embassy of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, later the building was confiscated by the state. In 1929 Benito Mussolini chose it as the seat of government. Just in the raised platform in the center of the square Alberto Sordi played the role of finicky policeman Othello Collar in the movie The Fighter.
Rome Tour guide
Circus Maximus
Valle Murcia, located between the Palatine Hill and the Aventine Hill, was designed for chariot races. Here was built the Circus Maximus. It is the greatest of Roman circus. Book your guided tour of the Circus Maximus! You will enter one of the most famous places of the city Rome. The Circus Maximus is one of the greatest buildings of all time. He has exceptional size. He was one of the places most frequented by the Romans coming to contain up to 250,000 people. Today looks like a large lawn in the center of the city of Rome. Formerly it was a rectangular building with two short sides curved. It was surrounded by bleachers. Shops, taverns and stalls surrounded the area of racing. At the center there was a plug, longitudinal structure around which the chariots raced. The plug was embellished with two Egyptian obelisks, shrines and temples. Seven eggs and seven bronze dolphins were used to count the laps. Twelve four-horse chariots were making seven laps around the area to ride. The departure took place on the short side. Here were placed the starting gate. Four teams participated in the competition. The races could get up to 100 per day. The Circus Maximus is connected to the origins of the city of Rome. According to legend, here would come the rape of the Sabine Women. The first wooden building was built by King Tarquinius Priscus in the seventh century. Julius Caesar built the brick building. Emperor Augustus moved there the obelisk of Ramesses II. He built the "imperial stage" and a shrine dedicated to the deity who presided over the shows. After the fire of 64 AD, the Circus Maximus was rebuilt by the Emperor Nero. It was enlarged by Emperor Caracalla and then restored from Emperor Constantine. Emperor Constantius II moved there the the obelisk of Thutmose III. Today, it is visible in Piazza San Giovanni. The last games were held in 549 AD by Totila, king of the Goths.
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The Colosseum and gladiators
Avoid long waiting in front of the ticket office and enjoy your time visiting ancient Rome. Book your guided tour of the Colosseum! You will not regret! The Colosseum is the largest amphitheater in the Roman Empire. It is the most important symbol of Rome and each year welcomes thousands of visitors. In ancient times it was called the Flavian Amphitheatre. The name Colosseum is widespread in the Middle Ages for its proximity to the statue of the Colossus of Nero. It stands on the pond dried up the Domus Aurea. To the east of the Roman Forum. This amphitheater was able to accommodate up to 70,000 spectators. Its construction was started by Emperor Vespasian in 72 AD It was inaugurated by his son Titus in 80 AD. Structure built with blocks of travertine from the quarries of Tivoli has an elliptical shape. It has a circumference of 527 meters and it is 57 meters high. The arena was 76 meters x 46 meters. The exterior is composed of four levels, the first three consisting of arches framed by half-columns, the fourth floor is characterized by pilasters. Above there were inserted the poles that supported the large curtain to protect the spectators from the sun. The Colosseum was opened to the public with a grand opening duration hundred days. Admission was free for all Roman citizens and the place was assigned based on social status. The lowest sector was reserved for senators and their families, the second sector to the knights, the third and the fourth to the plebs. The Colosseum was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles such as mock sea battles, animal hunts, executions, re-enactments of famous battles, and dramas based on Classical mythology. The gladiator fights were eagerly awaited by the whole Roman people. The gladiators could be prisoners of war, criminals, convicts, slaves or convicts. They could only redeem their freedom by fighting in the arena. The strongest and most successful were the idols of the public and especially the Roman matrons, fascinated by their strength and their courage. Even women were fighting but they were very rare and therefore also in great demand. At noon the trumpet and shouting inciting welcomed the triumphal entry of the gladiators in the Colosseum. The gladiators came from an underground tunnel connected directly to the Ludus Magnus, where he learned the art of gladiatura. After completing a tour of the arena greet the emperor saying, "Ave Caesar Morituri te salutant", "Ave Caesar, those who are about to die salute you." The winning gladiator turned to the public to ask the fate of the defeated. The crowd with a hand sign decided for death or for life. The thumb pointing up meant life. The thumb facing down death. In the end, though, it was the emperor who with his thumb determined the fate of the defeated gladiator.
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The Roman Forum
The guided tour of the Roman Forum allows a lovely walk in the heart of ancient Rome. The itinerary winds its way around the Via Sacra, the oldest street where they spent triumphant generals and emperors victorious. It is not easy to find among the ancient ruins so it is advisable the help of an experienced guide. The ticket also gives access to the archaeological site of the Palatine and lasts for two consecutive days. An archaeological tour evocative and exciting. We will enter the Roman Forum from Via dei Fori Imperiali, continue to the Capitol hill and then we drive to the Palatine and the Arch of Titus. Originally the court of Rome was an area of the market but with the growing power of the city commercial activities had been moved next to the river Tiber. The court thus becomes the center of the political life of the city of Rome. Here were concentrated the most important public and religious buildings. The large square in a square shape was a symbol of the idea of the Roman Republic, and each console, general or emperor wished to be remembered. In the sixth century B.C. are erected the Comice, home of the assemblies of the people, the Curia, seat of the Senate. In the same period were built the Temple of Saturn, Temple of Vulcan, the Temple of Mars and the Temple of Vesta. In front of the Curia is the Lapis Niger, an area paved with black marble identified as the point where Romulus was killed or disappeared in the sky. In the fourth century B.C. were built the great tribune called the Rostra and Tabularium, headquarters of the State. Around 50 BC Caesar demolished the Comice and moved the Curia to build his court. Augustus built the Temple of Caesar deified. In imperial times the court has lost its political function in favor of the Imperial Forums monumental squares, including the Forum of Augustus, Vespasian, Nerva and Trajan. The Roman Forum became the stage on which stage the deification of the emperor after his death. The last intervention was that monumental of Maxentius at the beginning of the fourth century AD. With the fall of the Western Empire, the Roman Forum was abandoned.
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Piazza Bocca della Verità
The square lies in the ancient area of the Forum Boarium, just in front of the Tiber Island. It is one of the most famous squares of the city of Rome. Piazza Bocca della Verità takes its name from the Mouth of Truth. The guided tour to Piazza Bocca della Verità will allow you to admire the Temple of Hercules and the Temple of Portunus. The Temple of Hercules, circular in shape, is the oldest marble building remained in Rome. It dates back to the second century BC. It was built by the Roman merchant M. Octavius Herrenus. It is dedicated to the god Hercules Olivario. The Temple of Portunus is dedicated to the patron of rivers and harbors. In ancient times it was directly connected to the bridge Emilio. In front of the two temples is the beautiful Fountain of the Tritons. It was built by Charles Bizzaccheri at the request of Pope Clement XI. Piazza Bocca della Verità is the ideal place for romantic walks. Our tour guides will accompany you in the beautiful church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin. The church was built on the ruins High Altar of Hercules, roman sanctuary for the protection of trade. In the sixth century A.D. Pope Gregory I built the first church. In the eighth century A.D. Pope Hadrian rebuilt. The church was run by the Greek monks and took the name of Santa Maria in Schola Greek. Later it was called Santa Maria in Cosmedin. In the ninth century D. Pope Nicholas I added the vestry, the chapel and a residence deacons. In 1120 Pope Callistus II built the porch. The restoration of Giuseppe Sardi in 1718 gave the rococo style. In 1899 Giovenale brought it back to its original Romanesque appearance. The church is divided into three naves. The Cosmatesque pavement is beautiful. Off-center stands the Romanesque bell tower dating from the twelfth century. On the left side of the portico admire the very famous Mouth of Truth embedded in the wall from 1632. Everyday many tourists waiting to be photographed with his hand inside the slit of his mouth. The Mouth of Truth is known throughout the world for the legend that when the liars who will introduce the hand would remain maimed. Probably in Roman times the Mouth of Truth was simply a manhole cover depicting a river god. Looking at it, you notice a bearded male face with eyes, nose and mouth holes to drain the water.
Rome Tour guide
The Catacombs of Rome
The Catacombs of Rome are ancient Jewish and Christian underground cemeteries, dug in the rock. They are located outside the ancient city walls, as regards the latter, it was not possible to bury the dead. Three are the most important and largest catacombs in the capital: the Catacombs of San Callisto, the Catacombs of San Sebastiano and the St. Domitilla catacombs. All three are included in the Appia Antica area between Via Appia and Via Ardeatina. The Catacombs of San Callisto are among the most famous and important of the city of Rome. In it were buried more than 500,000 Christians, including dozens of martyrs and 16 popes. They occupy an area of 15 hectares and account for almost 20 km of underground tunnels. The oldest part, dating from the late second and early third centuries. A.D., consists of the "Crypts of Lucina". The most sacred place is known as the "Little Vatican" or the "Crypt of the Popes" which houses nine popes, the successors of Callistus, and eight dignitaries of the Church. Another very important core is the Crypt of St. Cecilia, a Christian martyr of a noble Roman family. The Catacombs of San Sebastiano is located between the second and third miles of the Via Appia Antica. They were the first to be called "catacombs". San Sebastian, which gives its name to the cemetery complex, was a soldier who converted to Christianity, was martyred in Rome during the persecution of Emperor Diocletian. In the Basilica of San Sebastian, one of the seven places of pilgrimage in Rome, his relics are preserved. Not far from the previous ones are the Catacombs of St. Domitilla. They are well preserved and are more than 150,000 burials. Admirable is a small brick church is dedicated to Saints Nereus and Achilleus, martyred by the Emperor Diocletian and placed in a crypt transformed into a place of worship. Valuable is the tomb of St. Petronilla. At the convent of the Sisters of Priscilla on the Via Salaria, the Catacombs of Priscilla is considered the queen of the catacombs.
Basilica of San Clemente
A journey into Christian Rome certainly brings us to the discovery of the Basilica of San Clemente. It is located in the Monti district, between the Esquiline Hill and Caelian Hill, on the road which connects the Colosseum to the Lateran. It is dedicated to Pope Clement I, martyred under the Emperor Domitian. The archaeological site of San Clemente is one of the most interesting in Rome for his ability to cross the ages, thanks to the different levels that allow you to visit two churches, Roman constructions and a mithraeum. We'll get to touch the water of a water of the river Tiber. The archaeological site of San Clemente is divided into three levels: the first is a Roman Domus, the second is an early Christian basilica of the fourth century and the last one visible in the open, is the Basilica of San Clemente. Built under Pope Siricius at the end of the fourth century, was devastated by the invasion of the Normans in 1084, buried and rebuilt by Paschal II. The beautiful Cosmati floor, a choir, the ciborium and candelabra dating from the twelfth century are obscured by one of the oldest mosaics in Rome: "Christ crucified between the Virgin and St. John the Evangelist". The Basilica of San Clemente is home to the fresco of the "Legend of Sisinno", dated between 1084 and 1100. The opera tells of a miracle of San Clemente and is a very important witness for the study of the Italian language. Sisinno instructs three slaves chained Clement and lead to death. His crime was that he had converted his wife. In the fresco the slaves realize that the prisoner is returned free. His place was taken by a heavy stone column. You read the words in the vernacular spoken by Sisinno and moral conclusive in Latin spoken by San Clemente. The fresco of the "Legend of Sisinno" alludes to the distinction between the Latin language, used by men of the Church, and the vernacular used by the working classes.
Tour of the Basilica of Saint Perter:Pietà
The Pieta is a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture. It is a marble sculpture 174 cm high, 195 cm wide, 69 cm deep. It is preserved in the Basilica of St. Peter in the Vatican in Rome. It was built by Michelangelo between 1498 and 1499. It is the second work commissioned by the Vatican to the Florentine sculptor. The first was Bacchus. The statue was commissioned by the French cardinal Jean de Billheres, for his tomb. The sculpture was installed in 1499 in the Chapel of Santa Petronilla in St. Peter's. Here it remained until 1517. Later it was moved to the Old Sacristy. Since 1789 the work deals with the current location. He dropped out of St. Peter's Basilica, only to be welcomed to the New York World from 1962 to 1964. Following the act of a madman, who in 1972 damaged the work with several hammer blows, after the restoration, it was decided to protect the sculpture with a glass wall. The sculpture depicts the body of Jesus Christ on the lap of his mother Mary after the Crucifixion. The two figures seem to merge into a moment of touching intimacy. Is also highly expressive gesture of the left hand, which seems to invite the viewer to meditate. The sculpture has a pyramidal composition. One of the things that most surprises on the sculpture is extremely youthful appearance that the artist wanted to give to the Virgin Mary. Michelangelo Madonna is probably the whole of humanity. By the figure of Christ are absent signs of the Passion. The Son's face is serene. The marks of the crucifixion are limited to small wounds on his hands and side. Michelangelo did not want his pity represent death, but a religious vision of abandonment. The Vatican Pieta is the only work signed by Michelangelo. It is said that the artist does not usually sign their works, after hearing some visitors say that the Pieta was the work of Hunchback of Milan, has entered the same night in St. Peter's Basilica, and has had an impact on the sling that holding the mantle of the Virgin: "Angelus Bonarotus Florentinus faciebat" or "He did the Florentine Michelangelo Buonarroti." Book your guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica you will enjoy this unique masterpiece to the world.
Rome Tour guide
St. Peter's Square
St. Peter's Square is the most famous square of the city of Rome. It is the square in front of the Basilica of St. Peter. The square is part of the Vatican City and is bounded by the border with the Italian state. It is the best example of Baroque architecture. It is dedicated to St. Peter and is the meeting point for thousands of Catholic faithful from around the world. Every Sunday at noon, a large crowd gathers in the square to be present at the Angelus and receive the blessing of the Pope, who appears at the window of his study. The square consists of two parts. The first trapezoid whose larger side corresponds to the facade. The second, larger, oval-shaped with the Vatican obelisk in the center. The two large spaces are unified by an imposing colonnade. Today, in front of the square there is another space that serves as a vestibule: Piazza Pio XII. Here ends the twentieth century Way of Reconciliation. Upon entering St. Peter's Square is the beautiful colonnade of 284 columns and 88 pilasters in travertine of Tivoli. The colonnade surrounding St. Peter's Basilica, as you would receive in a symbolic embrace the faithful alike. The splendid architecture of the colonnade was commissioned by Pope Alexander VII Chigi to Bernini. The artist arranged radially four rows of 284 columns and gradually increase the diameter. Thanks to this arrangement, the viewer sees the columns as composed of a single row of columns. At the center of St. Peter's Square we can see the Vatican obelisk, which expresses the human desire to get closer to the Divine. It was brought to Rome from Emperor Caligula in 36 AD. In 1586 it was placed in front of the Basilica of Saint Peter by Pope Sixtus V. On the sides of the obelisk, there are two fountains: one on the right is the work of Carlo Moderno while the left is the work of Bernini. Between the obelisk and fountains, a circle of stones in the pavement marks the focal points of an ellipse. Our tour guides are aiming to take visitors and pilgrims on a journey into the heart of Christianity. Admire artistic and architectural masterpieces of masters such as Michelangelo and Bernini. The tours take place daily in Italian, Spanish, English, French, Portuguese and Romanian.
Rome Tour guide
St. Peter's Basilica
Our guided tours are intended to illustrate the main places of cultural and religious interest of the Vatican Museums. The itinerary includes: the Pio Clementino Museum, the Gallery of the Candelabra, of the Tapestries and of Maps, Raphael Rooms, the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica. You can book tickets for admission to museums with tourist guide for groups and individuals. The ticket includes the entrance to the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica. A guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica is consistent with that of the Holy Father's liturgical celebrations and other events of the Holy See or of the State of Vatican City. The visit will end in spectacular St. Peter's Square, urban masterpiece by Bernini. It will be a journey into the heart of Christianity to discover the artistic and architectural masterpieces of great artists such as Michelangelo and Bernini. Our tour guides will show you the colonnade of St. Peter's Square, the obelisk Vatican, Michelangelo's Pieta, the majestic dome of the great Master and the interior of the great Basilica. Guests enjoy a privileged entry without queuing. The entrance to St. Peter's Basilica is permitted only to visitors with proper attire. It is one of the largest churches in the world. The original St. Peter's Basilica was built in 320 by the Emperor Constantine in the place where, according to tradition, the apostle Peter was buried. It was embellished and restored during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. The current building was started in 1506 under Pope Julius II and was concluded in 1626 under Pope Urban VIII Barberini. It houses masterpieces such as Michelangelo's Pietà, the bronze baldachin by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, the statue of St. Peter by Arnolfo di Cambio. In recent centuries St. Peter's Basilica was the seat of the most important events in the history of the Church. In the years 1869-70 and 1962-65 were held in the Basilica two Ecumenical Councils: Vatican I and Vatican II. What are you waiting to book your guided tour of the Basilica of St. Peter. Driving along the stories of one of the most important monuments of Christianity and we will enjoy the beautiful view from the top of the dome.
Rome Tour guide
Vatican Tour Apollo Belvedere
The Apollo Belvedere is a famous marble statue dating from the second century BC. It is a copy of a bronze statue created by the Greek sculptor Leocares. It is one of the greatest masterpieces of art and model of aesthetic perfection. The famous German neo-classicist Johann Joachim Wickelmann says "The statue of Apollo represents the highest ideal of art among all the works of antiquity which have escaped destruction". It is kept in the Octagonal Courtyard of the Museo Pio Clementino, Vatican City . The guided tour of the Museo Pio Clementino is included in the path of the Vatican Museums. Here together with our guides you can admire the masterpieces of Greek and Roman art such as the famous Laocoon group, the Perseus with Medusa's head between two Boxers and the Apollo Belvedere. This statue was found at Anzio in the late fifteenth century. It was purchased by Cardinal Giuliano della Rovere and placed in his palace at Santi Apostoli. Become Pope Julius II (1503-1513), the sculpture was transferred to the Vatican at the backyard of Belvedere. The name comes from the place where the statue was placed by Pope Julius II. The white marble statue is 224 cm high. It is perfectly preserved. The lower part of the right arm and left hand, missing at the time of the discovery, were rebuilt by Giovanni Angelo Montorsoli, sculptor and collaborator of Michelangelo. The Apollo Belvedere represents the Greek god Apollo who has just killed Python. The god is naked. It has a coat leaning against the right shoulder. He tensed muscles due to the effort of the battle against Python. The hair in curls falling on the neck fluids. An ornamental band symbolizing a god or a king is collected smartly on his head, surrounded by strophium. The elegance of the figure and the harmony of proportions show the majesty and power of the character. These elements have led Apollo to become a model of ideal male, noble and pure.
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Vatican Tour Laocoon
Laocoon is one of the famous characters in Greek mythology. He lived in Troy and was the son of Antenor and brother of Anchises. He married Antiope and had two children: Antifate and Timbreo. He was a visionary and important priest of Poseidon. It is said that when the Trojans brought the famous Trojan Horse into the city, he ran towards it and told crying "O fools, never trust the Greeks and even less their gifts!", and to convince his fellow citizens to destroy the horse, he threw a spear against himself. Athena, who sided with the Greeks, brought out two huge sea serpents from the sea: Porcete and Caribea. They choked Laocoon and his two sons. The Trojans took this as a sign, so they decided to take the horse within their walls. The Laocoon group is a marble sculpture dating back to the first century AD. The artists who worked were Agesander, Atanodoro and Polidoro. It is preserved in the Museo Pio-Clementino at the Vatican Museums in Rome. It was discovered in Rome in a vineyard on Opium Hill in 1506, near the Domus Aurea. Famous artists such as Michelangelo and the architect Giuliano da Sangallo participated in the excavation. Then the statue was acquired by Pope Julius II and was placed in the courtyard of the statues designed by Bramante inside the complex of the Belvedere garden. The octagonal courtyard was intended to accommodate the papal collection of ancient sculptures. This exhibition is considered the founding document of the Vatican Museums. Since then, the Laocoon is considered the most important piece of the collection. The sculptural group depicting the famous episode narrated in the Aeneid shows the Trojan Laocoon and his sons attacked by the sea serpents. We can admire Laocoon and his two sons and Antifante and Timbreo while they are crushed by Porcete and Caribea. Laocoon, in an attempt to break free from the grip of the snake, draws all its power. The painful expression on his face expresses the physical and spiritual suffering. What is most striking about this work is the great technical mastery of the sculptor. He respects both the formal requirements that those narratives. Booking your guided tour of the Vatican Museums you will enjoy this unique masterpiece to the world.
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Vatican Tour Belvedere Torso
The Belvedere Torso is one of the most admired ancient sculptures by artists nowadays. Along with the Laocoon and the Apollo Belvedere influenced European art of the Renaissance. It is the symbol of muscle power and extreme inner strength. The Belvedere Torso is preserved in the Vatican City, at the vestibule of the Pio Clementino Museum. The marble statue, dating to the first century BC, is signed by the Athenian Apollonios. It was found in Rome in the Campo dei Fiori, during the pontificate of Pope Julius II (1503-1513). With Pope Clement VII (1523-34), the sculpture was moved to the Vatican and placed in the courtyard of the Belvedere. It became subject of study and admiration by the great masters, such as Michelangelo and Raphael. For Michelangelo the Torso was the best of beauty. He spent hours in front of this sculpture in complete ecstasy. It is said that Pope Julius II asked the artist to deal with the restoration of the statue by adding the head and arms. Michelangelo refused judging the torso too good to be altered. He used the work as a source of inspiration for some of the figures of the Sistine Chapel . The Belvedere Torso is presented as an extraordinary male nude seated on a panther skin resting on a rock. The figure is in the act of rise. It has no head, arms and legs from the knee down. Soon discussions began about the character represented. Someone came up with the idea that it could be Philoctetes abandoned on the island of Lemnos by the Greeks from Troy. Others identified him with the satyr Marsyas or the cyclops Polyphemus. Many scholars believe that the Torso represents Hercules in repose at the end of his twelve labors. The hypothesis identifies with the hero greek Ajax Telamon in the act of meditating suicide. It is said that, during the Trojan War, the warrior was seized with madness when Odysseus escaped the arms of Achilles. His head was resting on his hand and the right hand, who held the sword with which the hero would have taken his own life. When booking your guided tour of the Vatican Museums you will have the opportunity to admire this masterpiece of Greek-Roman times. Do not miss it!
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Vatican Tour Museo Pio Clementino
The Museo Pio Clementino is the largest complex of the Vatican Museums. It was commissioned by the popes Clement XIV and Pius VI to collect the most important Greek and Roman masterpieces kept in the Vatican. The Museum was inaugurated in 1771 by Pope Clement XIV. The successive enlargements including the monumental entrance to the lobby of the Four Gates and the scale Simonetti are due to Pope Pius VI. The tour of the museum is divided into twelve rooms. The first room is the room in the Greek Cross. The room takes its name from its shape: a Greek cross. It was built around 1780 by the architect Michelangelo Simonetti. Stand here, the central mosaic dating from the third century AD and two colossal porphyry sarcophagi: the left one is of St. Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine; the right one is of Constantina, daughter of the Emperor Constantine. The second room is the Sala Rotonda designed by the architect Michelangelo Simonetti around 1780. At the center is a large round tub monolithic porphyry, nearly five feet wide, from the Domus Aurea. Beautiful are the Hercules in gilded bronze of the late second century AD found near the Theatre of Pompey, and the third-century mosaic from the Baths of Otricoli. The third room is the Hall of the Muses. It was built by Michelangelo Simonetti around 1780. In the hall are statues of muses and poets. At the center is the famous Belvedere Torso, signed by Athenian sculptor Apollonius. The fourth room is the Hall of Animals that collects animal statues from the Roman period. The fifth room is the Gallery of Statues. Contains precious Roman statues: among these the Apollo "Sauroktonos" and the famous "Sleeping Ariadne". The Sala dei Busti collects mostly portraits of Roman emperors. We then move on to the Cabinet Room of the masks in which you indicate the Venus of Cnidus, the Statue of crouching Venus and the Three Graces Group. The heart of the museum is the Octagonal Courtyard, courtyard of the Belvedere Palace, originally square in shape and planted with orange trees. Among the most famous statues: the Apollo Belvedere, the famous group of Laocoon and Perseus with Medusa's head between two Boxers. Through the hallway you enter the room dell'Apoxyomenos. The room takes its name from the Statue dell'Apoxyomenos. The sculpture depicts an athlete who, out of the gym, with the strigil cleanses left in the dust mixed with sweat from his right arm outstretched. From the next room you can see the staircase of Bramante, commissioned by Pope Julius II in 1512 to create a link between the Palace and the city of Rome. Then we arrive at the Vestibule Square. On display is the Sarcophagus of Lucius Cornelius Scipio Barbato from the Tomb of the Scipios on the Appian Way.
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Vatican Tour The Raphael Rooms
During your guided visit to the Vatican Museums our tour guides will accompany you in the Raphael Rooms. The four rooms were part of the apartment located on the second floor of the Papal Palace, chosen by Pope Julius II Della Rovere (1503-1513), as his residence and also used by his successors. The pictorial decoration was executed by Raphael and his pupils between 1508 and 1524. Rooms are named after the frescoes located. They were painted in the following chronological order: 1508-1511 Stanza della Segnatura, 1511-1514 Stanza di Eliodoro, 1514-1517 Stanza dell’Incendio di Borgo, 1517-1524 Sala di Costantino. During the tour we will do the reverse route, passing through a balcony on the sixteenth century Cortile del Belvedere. The Hall of Constantine was intended for official ceremonies. It was largely achieved by the pupils of Raphael, because the master died suddenly on April 6, 1520. Some famous episodes are narrated: "The Baptism of Constantine" in the Basilica of St. John Lateran; "Apparition of the Cross to Constantine " and "The Battle of the Milvian Bridge". The ceiling is the "Triumph of Christianity" against paganism, symbolized by the statue shattered on the ground. The frescoes of the church seek the exaltation of the emperor who recognized the Christian religion and granted freedom of worship. After passing through the Hall of Chiaroscuri and the Chapel of Nicholas V we will be in the Room of Heliodorus. It was intended for audiences of the Pope. Here the spiritual and temporal power of the Church is exalted, with God's interventions in favor of men. Inspired by the action of Julius II to liberate Italy from the French, the scenes show the protection of God to the Church threatened in faith (Mass of Bolsena), in the figure of the Pope (release of St Peter), its possessions (Meeting Leo the Great with Attila) and its shareholders (Expulsion of Heliodorus from the temple). Following, we move in the "Room of the Signatura", the first room painted by Raphael. The name is derived from the function of this environment, intended to papal library where he signed official acts. Here are represented the three categories: Neoplatonic of Truth, Goodness and Beauty. The Real is illustrated by the dispute of theology with philosophy (School of Athens), the Good is expressed by the Cardinal and Theological Virtues and the Law, the Fair is the Parnassus with Apollo and the Muses. The last room, painted on commission from the Medici Pope Leo X, shows the great historical events that took place under Pope Leo IV. The "The Room of the Fire in the Borgo" was named for the Fire in the Borgo which depicts Pope Leo IV making the sign of the cross to extinguish a raging fire in the Borgo district of Rome near the Vatican. The other frescoes are the "Oath of Leo III", "Coronation of Charlemagne" and the "Battle of Ostia”.
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Vatican Tour The Last Judgement
Book your guided tour of the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. Enjoy the splendid masterpiece of Last Judgement. It is a fresco by Michelangelo Buonarroti, made between 1536 and 1541, to decorate the wall behind the altar of the Sistine Chapel. The artist was commissioned by Pope Clement VII, twenty years later he finished his work on time. The work was begun and completed under Pope Paul III Farnese. The fresco "The Last Judgement", known and loved throughout the world, marked the end of an era and constituted a watershed in the history of art and of human thought. Man strong and sure of Humanism and the Renaissance was opposed by a chaotic vision of the new era . It follows the tragic philosophical vision of the artist. The masterpiece is also the symbol of newfound supremacy of the Papacy. Michelangelo was inspired by biblical texts, especially the book of Revelation, and the Divine Comedy of Dante Alighieri. Looking at the time we see the middle figure of Christ flanked by the Virgin Mary. He with a simple movement of the arms decides the eternal destiny of men. For some there will be salvation: the figures on the left going up towards the sky. For most damnation: the naked right that precipitate into Hell. The Virgin turns her head in a gesture of resignation. Even the saints and blessed, arranged around the two figures of the Mother and the Son, anxiously await the verdict. To the left of Christ are recognized: Saint Andrew with his cross; St. John the Baptist which could represent Adam. Below are San Lorenzo and St. Bartholomew. He holds a human skin devoid of meat. Is the skin of Michelangelo, symbol of sin which is now private. On the right you can distinguish: St. Peter's, with the face of Pope Paul III that gives the buyer the keys, one silver and the other gold; San Biagio, which shows the iron combs his torture, and Saint Catherine of Alexandria, with a crescent-toothed, alluding to the way in which she was martyred; to the left is San Sebastian, kneeling and with arrows in hand. At the bottom there is Charon, the mythical ferryman present in Virgil's Aeneid and Dante's Divine Comedy. He pushes the souls of sinners out of the boat into Hell abandoning them to their fate dramatic. The sinners will be brought before the infernal judge Minos, his body wrapped in the coils of the snake. In the high fresco, finally, are represented the symbols of Christ's Passion: the cross, the crown of thorns, dice with which the guards played , the column of the Flagellation, the towel with which he had been watered.
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Vatican Tour Michelangelo's masterpiece
The Sistine Chapel was built between 1475 and 1481. Originally known as the Cappella Magna, the chapel takes its name from Pope Sixtus IV. It is one of the most famous treasures of the Vatican City and it is inserted into the path of the Vatican Museums. The Sistine Chapel is the great masterpiece of Michelangelo Buonarroti and one of the most important cycles of world painting. As part of a grand renovation project of the city of Rome, Pope Julius II summoned the famous Florentine artist to complete the decoration of the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. The work was started in May 1508. Chapel was solemnly inaugurated by Pope Julius II in November 1512. The frescoes shows the history of humanity in the period before the coming of Christ. Michelangelo was originally commissioned to paint only twelve figures, the Apostles, but when the work was finished, there were more than three hundred. The iconographic program reconnects to the themes painted on the side walls. All figures are set in a monumental painted architectural structure that is superimposed on the real time. The reading of the paintings can be articulated in three parts. In the first part are presented the Ancestors of Christ. They are waiting, with different poses and attitudes, the big event of Revelation. Our tour guides will show you, starting from the ancient entrance, the episode of "Judith and Holofernes", the episode of "David and Goliath", the episode of "Brazen Serpent" and the episode of "Punishment of Haman" In the second part there are the splendid figures of the seven Biblical Prophets and five Sibyls. Everyone is caught in the act of reading a book or unrolling a scroll. Among the most beautiful figures are the Delphic Sibyl and the prophets Ezekiel and Jonah. In the third section Michelangelo painted nine stories, taken from the book of Genesis Episodes: three episodes illustrate the "Creation of the World" three "the story of Adam" and three "story of Noah". The three creations begin with the boundary of the "Separation of Light from Darkness" characterized by the figure of the Creator who, wrapped in pink drapery, occupies almost the entire space. It follows: The "Creation of the stars", the "separation of water from the earth", the "Creation of Adam", the "Creation of Eve", the "Original Sin and Expulsion from Paradise on Earth", "The Sacrifice of Noah", "the Great Flood "and " Drunkenness of Noah ". The scenes of Genesis are surrounded by Ignudi, extraordinary male figures, which may allude to the beauty of man created in the image and likeness of God.
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Vatican Tour The wall decorations of the Sistine Chapel
The Sistine Chapel is one of the most famous places in the world. It is located inside the Vatican Museums and is the place where we celebrate the conclave for the election of popes. It is very busy but we are nonetheless able to admire all the frescoes in an optimal way. It is strongly recommended a guided tour of the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums. There is a special atmosphere that you will remember for a lifetime. It is an absolute must! The Sistine Chapel is not only a temple of spirituality but also the center of the Renaissance. His patron Pope Sixtus IV della Rovere. Famous Florentine and Umbrian artists worked here. Recall Botticelli, Ghirlandaio, Cosimo Rosselli, Signorelli, Perugino and Pinturicchio. They decorated the side walls, divided into three horizontal strips and scanned vertically with elegant pilasters. At the bottom were made in fresco faux damask drapes with the insignia of the pope. Above them were hung tapestries. In the mid range, the most important, were painted with biblical scenes stories from the life of Moses and Christ, both conceived as liberators of mankind. On the left we see the stories of Moses, the savior of the Jewish people. Sequence: the "Journey of Moses in Egypt," the "Trials of Moses," The "Passage of the Red Sea", The "Delivery of the Tables of the Law", the "Punishment of Korah, Dathan and Abiram" and "Testament and the death of Moses. " On the right we see the life of Christ, the savior of all mankind. Sequence: The "Baptism of Christ", "Temptation of Christ", the "Cleansing of the Leper," "Calling of the Apostles," "Sermon on the Mount", "Delivery of the Keys" and L '"Last Supper". The stories of Moses and Christ can be read in parallel. The cycle ends in the wall of the main entrance with the "Contest for the body of Moses" and the "Resurrection of Christ." At the top you will see the writing. They are called tituli and relate to the scenes depicted. At the top were made to realize by Sixtus IV the portraits of the first popes, to demonstrate the continuity of its mandate with its predecessors.
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The Sistine Chapel is one of the most famous and visited sacred places in the world. It is a masterpiece that leaves everyone breathless. The guided tour of the Sistine Chapel is included in the path of the Vatican Museums and is open daily from 8.30 to 16.00. The Sistine Chapel conclude a fabulous route that winds through seven miles of amazing museums and ancient sculptures and Renaissance frescoes. The last Sunday of the month the entrance to the Vatican Museums is free. Given the great demand for a guided tour of the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel is recommended that ample notice for booking. Our tour guides will introduce you to the wonderful cycle of frescoes painted in the sixteenth century by the famous Michelangelo and other artists of the time. The Sistine Chapel was built in the sixteenth century by Pope Sixtus IV della Rovere. Its construction began in 1475, the year of Jubilee proclaimed by Pope Sixtus IV, and ended August 15, 1483. Was dedicated to the Virgin. It was intended to accommodate the meetings of the papal court. The architect who worked there was Baccio Pontelli. The size of the classroom are 40.23 meters long, 13.40 meters wide and 20.70 meters high. The main entrance to the Sistine Chapel is preceded by the magnificent Royal Hall for papal audiences. The fine fifteenth-century balustrade topped by candelabra divides the area to the clergy than for the public. On the right side there is the choir for the members of the choir. The stone seat placed on three sides of the hall was bound to the papal court. Admire the beautiful mosaic pavement dating back to 1400 and still intact. Pope Sixtus IV summoned to decorate the walls of the Sistine Chapel famous painters . At the head of the yard there was the teacher of Raphael, Perugino. The other artists involved were Ghirlandaio, Sandro Botticelli, Cosimo Rosselli, Pinturicchio and Biagio d'Antonio. The theme of the decoration are the lives of Moses and Christ. Noteworthy are famous the Delivery of the Keys by Perugino and The Punishment of the Rebels by Botticelli. Between 1508 and 1512 Michelangelo Buonarroti realized the decoration of the Sistine Chapel with important episodes of the Old Testament. Among them is the famous Creation of Adam with the two fingers touching. The same Michelangelo Buonarroti between 1536 and 1541, realized on the back wall of the chapel of The Last Judgement. The subject represented is the inevitable fate that hangs over all men. The work aroused criticism for too many nudes present. Today, the Sistine Chapel is home to many celebrations. It is the place where the Conclave meets to elect a new Pope.
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Do you want to see the most famous masterpieces of ancient and Renaissance art? Well! The Vatican Museums are waiting for you. Millions of visitors flock from all over the world to visit them. Booking with us your guided tour you will have the opportunity to make a long and mysterious journey through twenty centuries of history. The book also allows you to skip the long queues at the entrance. The Vatican Museums appear as one big museum but they are actually the fruit of the union of the various collections. The complex of the Vatican Museums encloses several museums: Museo Pio Clementino, Museum Chiaramonti, Gregorian Etruscan Museum, Gregorian Egyptian Museum, Gregorian Profane Museum, Museum Pio Cristiano, Ethnological Missionary Museum, Collection of Modern Religious Art, Upper Galleries, Museum the Vatican Library, Art Gallery and of course the incomparable Sistine Chapel. Passing through the beautiful entrance door in bronze, you will be led by our tour guides outside the city of Rome and Italy. You will enter into the smallest country in the world: the Vatican. Inside there are the Vatican Museums. They are spread over a large are. The path goes up to 7 km! The long courtyards and galleries connecting the Belvedere Palace of Innocent VIII to other buildings, were designed by Bramante for Julius II. The Vatican Museums were inaugurated in 1506 with the discovery of the Laocoon sculpture. It is only in the second half of the eighteenth century, however, that the museums open to the public. The Vatican Museums will find exposed about 70,000 works of inestimable value, collected by the popes during their life or often commissioned by themselves. Among them, in addition to the Laocoon, remember the Apollo Belvedere and the famous Etruscan bronze known as the Mars of Todi. During the Renaissance some of the rooms of the palaces were decorated with unique frescoes, like the Sistine Chapel, the Raphael Rooms and the Borgia Apartment. See all in one visit is simply impossible. The proposed route of our tour guides includes a guided visit to:
• Guided Tours: Cortile della Pigna
• Guided Tours: Cabinet dell'Apoxyomenos
• Guided Tours: Octagonal Courtyard (Group of the Laocoon, Apollo Belvedere)
• Guided Tours: Museo Pio-Clementino (Greek Cross Room, Round Hall, Hall of the Muses, Animal Room)
• Guided Tours: Gallery of the Candelabra
• Guided Tours: Gallery of the Tapestries
• Guided Tours: Gallery of Maps
• Guided Tours: Gallery and Chapel of St. Pius V
• Guided Tours: Sobieski Room
• Guided Tours: Raphael Rooms
• : Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel.
Rome Tour guide
Roman rationalism
The Italian Rationalism is an architectural movement that developed in conjunction with the Modern Movement International, one of the most important movements in the history of architecture. The Italian Rationalism, originated from Futurism, has marked the development of Italian architecture of the twentieth century. In 1926 a group of architects from Milan Polytechnic formed the Group of Seven and shortly thereafter was born MIAR Italian Movement for Rational Architecture. In rationalism prefer bare and bright surfaces, large windows, free plants for increased availability of space. Among the most significant works of Italian Rationalism include: The casa del Fascio in Como, designed by Giuseppe Terragni and considered a masterpiece of Italian rationalism; The Torre Littoria in the center of Turin; The palazzo dell'ex collegio aeronautico and the ex casa del Balilla in Forli; The railway station of Santa Maria Novella in Florence designed by Giovanni Michelucci; The city of Sabaudia built in 253 days, and was inaugurated in 1935. In Rome, with fascism, rationalism became the architecture of the regime, as we understand in the neighborhoods of the EUR and the University City. The EUR was built for the Universal Exhibition in 1942 that was supposed to celebrate the twentieth anniversary of the fascist march on Rome. The project was inspired by Marcello Piacentini classical Roman city planning, a road network with orthogonal axes; majestic buildings, square, white marble and travertine. Example the Colosseo Quadrato, the Palace of the Italian Civilization by Guerrini, La Padula and Romano in 1940. Also of interest are the Congress Palace by Adalberto Libera, the Palaces of Ina and INPS, the Central State Archives and the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul. The scheme of the university campus, designed by Piacentini, should remember a Roman fort, with orthogonal axes and "forum" in the center. The most interesting building is the Institute of Physics, by Giuseppe Pagano.
Rome Tour guide
The city of Rome is home to many historic buildings, the seat of the popes and of the families who exercised their power in the city. One of the finest Renaissance palaces in Rome is Palazzo Farnese. It is located in Piazza Farnese and was built by order of Cardinal Alessandro Farnese, the future Pope Paul III. Between Via del Corso Vittorio Emanuele II and the Campo de 'Fiori is the Palazzo della Cancelleria, venue of the courts of the Holy See, the Roman Rota and the Apostolic Signatura. Palazzo Chigi-Odescalchi, located in Piazza Santi Apostoli, was the residence of the families Colonna, Ludovisi, Odescalchi Chigi. Palazzo Venezia, located between Piazza Venezia and Via del Plebiscito, was ordered by Pope Paul II. Over the centuries was the seat of the Pope and now houses the National Museum of Palazzo Venezia and the Library of Archaeology and History. Another historic building in Rome is Palazzo Doria Pamphili, in an area between Via del Corso, Piazza del Collegio Romano, Via della Gatta and Via del Plebiscito. It is home to the Galleria Doria Pamphili, dated to the early sixteenth century. The building should not be confused with the Palazzo Pamphili in Piazza Navona. Palazzo Barberini, located in Via Quattro Fontane in Rome's historic center, is home to the National Gallery of Ancient Art and the Italian Institute of Numismatics. The palace was built between 1625 and 1633 by Carlo Maderno, assisted by Francesco Borromini. Palazzo Colonna is one of the oldest and largest private palaces of Rome. It was built in the fourteenth century by the Colonna family, who lived for eight centuries. The Colonna Gallery exhibits priceless masterpieces by the greatest artists such as Pinturicchio, Cosmè Tura, Carracci, Guido Reni, Tintoretto, Salvator Rosa, Bronzino, Guercino, Veronese and Vanvitelli. The city of Rome is also home to numerous institutional buildings. Worth a visit to the Quirinal Palace, the summer residence of the popes for centuries, then passed to the Savoy and since 1946 the official residence of the President of the Republic. Within walking distance you can throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain, the beautiful setting of a scene from the famous film La vita è bella of Fellini. At Piazza Colonna is Palazzo Chigi, seat of the Italian Government. The square is also famous for its towering column of Marcus Aurelius in the center. Continuing on, you come to Piazza Montecitorio where is the seat of the Chamber of Deputies: Palazzo Montecitorio. Continuing in the direction of Piazza Navona arrive at Palazzo Madama, the seat of the Italian Senate, built in the late fifteenth century and was the residence of the Medici family.
Guided tour at the Quirinal Palace and its gardens
Book your guided tour to one of the most important monuments in Italy: the Quirinal Palace. The Quirinal Palace is located in the city of Rome. It is located on the Quirinal Hill. It is the official residence of the President of the Italian Republic. It is open to the public every Sunday from 8.30 to 12.00. The entrance is free for children under 18 and over 65 years of age. Your tour guide is waiting for you at Piazza del Quirinale before at the Fountain of Dioscuri. The Palace was built in 1583 as a summer residence of the Pope to the top of the hill. Its construction worked masters of Italian art. The facade was made by Domenico Fontana. Fontana was also responsible for the arrangement of Piazza del Quirinale, the restoration of the statues of the Dioscuri attributed to Phidias and Praxiteles, and the erection of the Fountain of Dioscuri. The chapel and the main entrance were made by Carlo Maderno. The beautiful wing of the building that runs along Via del Quirinale was made by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. The interior decoration was entrusted to Pietro da Cortona. He as well as the design of the pictorial series with episodes from the Old Testament deals with the recruitment of the most celebrated artists of those times. In 1870 Quirinal Palace became the royal palace of the Savoy. During their stay, the Savoy restructured different environments to suit the changing needs of the Court. Since 1946 it is the seat of the President of the Italian Republic. The Quirinale Palace is not only the landmark of the Italian nation, but also a museum open to the citizens of the world. It 'a treasure of art. Not to be missed is the wonderful gallery of Alexander VII. You will enter its three rooms called "Hall of the Ambassadors", "Hall of Augustus" and "Yellow Room". Inside you admire furniture, tapestries and porcelain. The Quirinale encloses a garden of about four acres. Our tour guides will tell you the story, which is closely connected with the evolution of the building. The Gardens are open June 2, National Unity Day, and March 17, Constitution and Flag Day. At the end of the tour you can relax by listening to the concerts of the Quirinal taking place in the Pauline Chapel. The repertoire ranges from classical to medieval, from baroque to contemporary and popular. You will also witness the changing of the guard.
Villa Torlonia is a villa and surrounding gardens in Rome. It is entered from the via Nomentana. From the seventeenth century until the mid-eighteenth Villa Torlonia is owned by the Pamphili family and is used as a working farm. The construction of the house began in 1806 by the architect Giuseppe Valadier for the banker Giovanni Raimondo Torlonia who had bought the estate from the Colonna family. Villa Torlonia is entered in the 'collective imagination as the "home of Mussolini". In the twenties in fact, Giovanni Torlonia Junior gives the residence of Benito Mussolini, who pays a symbolic annual rent of a penny. Once through the entrance of Nomentana, stands the first of two Egyptian obelisks in the Villa. A little farther on to dominate the scene is the Casino Nobile, residence of Benito Mussolini from 1925 to 1943. This building will amaze you with the splendor of its halls, such as the Ballroom, where the reception was held in 1931 for the visit of the Mahatma Gandhi. On the second floor there is the Museum of the Roman School, which offers a panoramic view. Inside Villa Torlonia, you can admire the Art Nouveau architecture of the Casina delle Civette. At first glance the feeling is amazing because it is a northern building in the context of a Roman villa. The building began to be called Casina delle Civette for the presence of the glass with two stylized owls. The Casina delle Civette is now a museum where you can admire stained glass, ceramics and furniture. In the bedroom of the Prince Giovanni Torlonia., you seem to be finished in the villa of Bruce Wayne. On the ceiling are in fact depicted bats in flight. The architectural complex is also part of the Library of Applied Arts. Nearby are the Ruins False and the Temple of Saturn which the model is the Temple of Aesculapius built in 1786 for the Villa Borghese. Admire the Moorish Serra and Theater You can make a stop at Limonaia where once there Istituto Luce staged an elegant movie theater. Next to limonaia, is the Medieval Cottage, home of Technotown: an educational workshop for children aged 8 to 17 years. In the villa you can enjoy a little relaxation, jogging and attend high level exhibitions that are organized in the Casino dei Principi, a fine building in the Renaissance style. Not far away is the Porta Pia, one of the gates of the Aurelian Walls built by the great artist Michelangelo Buonarroti . It is known for the breach of Porta Pia, the battle took place September 20, 1870.
Rome Tour guide
Rome Tour guide
Palazzo Barberini
Barberini Palace, located in Via Quattro Fontane, in Rome's historic center, is home to the National Gallery of Ancient Art and the Italian Institute of Numismatics. The palace was built between 1625 and 1633 by Carlo Maderno, assisted by Francesco Borromini. Admire the façade with three levels of arches supported by Doric, Ionic and Corinthian columns. Upon entering you can enjoy a elliptical atrium flanked by two staircases on the sides and in which, centrally opens a staircase leading to the gardens. Spiral staircase by Borromini. Square staircase by Bernini. Yet another comparison between the two genes of the Baroque, as in a short distance of San Carlo alle Quattro Fontane by Borromini and S. Andrea al Quirinale by Bernini. Palazzo Barberini is also enhanced by the garden and the gate with the telamons carved on Via delle Quattro Fontane. The garden was originally a real park: the space was organized as an Italian garden full of secret garden and populated by exotic animals. The Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Antica in Barberini Palace was founded in 1895 to collect works from private collections and from the Monte di Pietà. It houses works by Caravaggio as Judith beheading Holofernes, Narciso and San Francisco; El Greek as the Adoration of the Shepherds and the Baptism of Christ; Hans Holbein the Younger as a portrait of Henry VIII. You can admire the Madonna and Child by Filippo Lippi, La Fornarina byRaphael , Christ and the Adulteress by Tintoretto and Venus and Adoni by Titian. The Barberini were one of the most influential families of the Italian Middle Ages. In Palestrina we can observe one of their most admirable residences: Palazzo Barberini Colonna, placed over the remains of the Sanctuary of Fortuna of Praeneste. Here is the famous Nile Mosaic, one of the most beautiful mosaics of the Hellenistic era depicting the Nile.
Rome Tour guide
Colonna Palace is one of the oldest and largest private palaces of Rome. The building covers an area between Piazza Santi Apostoli, Via Nazionale, Via IV Novembre and Via della Pilotta. It was built in the fourteenth century by the Colonna family, who lived for eight centuries. The Colonna family was one of the most important families of Rome and Italy during the Middle Ages. In the genealogy of the Colonna appearing Gaius Marius and Julius Caesar and then consequently Aeneas, son of Anchises and Venus. It is said that their name comes from Trajan's column, in which they would have a home. Oddone Colonna, elected pope 's November 11, 1417 and assumed the name of Martin V, allocates the Palazzo Colonna to the Papal See. In the 1600s, the building takes the form of a grand Baroque palace on the orders of Philip I, Cardinal Girolamo and Lorenzo Onofrio, who rely on architects and artists of great skill and reputation. Recall Gian Lorenzo Bernini, Antonio del Grande, Carlo Fontana and Paul Schor. From this period dates the beautiful Galleria Colonna, a jewel of the Roman Baroque. The Galleria Colonna looks out for 76 meters on Via IV Novembre and is open to the public on Saturday morning. It exhibits priceless masterpieces by the greatest artists such as Pinturicchio, Cosme Tura, Carracci, Guido Reni, Tintoretto, Salvator Rosa, Bronzino, Guercino, Veronese and Vanvitelli. Among the many works of art in the Column Hall of Relics, we point out the remarkable painting by Bronzino depicting Venus, Cupid and Satyr. In the Great Hall, you should see the four large mirrors painted by Mario de Fiori, John Tired and Carlo Maratta. In the Hall of the landscapes do not miss the big treasure chest in ebony and ivory, by brothers Austrian Steinhart. It depicts scenes from the life of Jesus and in the central part, plays the Michelangelo's Last Judgment in the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican. The Hall of the Apotheosis of Martin V is rich in masterpieces such as the Mangiafagioli Annibale Carracci, who certainly impressionist painters such as Van Gogh and Degas.
Rome Tour guide
Palazzo Doria Pamphili is a historic building in Rome. It occupies an area between Via del Corso, Piazza del Collegio Romano, Via della Gatta and Via del Plebiscito. The building should not be confused with the Pamphili Palace located in the Piazza Navona, and other buildings Doria Pamphili located in Valmontone and Viterbo. The Palazzo Doria Pamphili originally owned by the Della Rovere family, became the Aldobrandini family and, in the seventeenth century, it passed to the family Doria Pamphili Landi who enlarged it designed by Carlo Maderno. The fortunes of the Pamphili, originating in Gubbio, binds to Pope Innocent X (1644-1655). The pope became popular in Spain for the portrait done by Velázquez in 1649. The painting is kept in the building. With the rise in the fortunes of the family, the palace was extended almost continuously and is still the largest in Rome. Palazzo Doria Pamphili is home to the Galleria Doria Pamphili, dated to the early sixteenth century. Here, the four arms facing the inner courtyard with its beautiful Renaissance arcades, as well as in the Hall of Primitive and the Hall Aldobrandini, focus the majority of masterpieces from the private collection of the Doria Pamphili family. Together with the collections of the Colonna and the Pallavicini-Rospigliosi, this is one of the largest private collections of art in Rome. In the gallery are on display many Renaissance works by Titian, Raphael, Garofalo, Lorenzo Lotto, Pieter Bruegel, Correggio and Parmigianino. It also hosts seventeenth-century masterpieces by Caravaggio, Annibale Carracci, Guido Reni, Guercino, Jan Bruegel, Jusepe Ribera, Velázquez, Claude Lorrain, and Gaspard Dughet. Admirable are the marble busts made by Gian Lorenzo Bernini and Alessandro Algardi. Stroll among ancient sculptures, ranging from the Archaic to the Hellenistic period.
Rome Tour guide
Inside the Villa Borghese, one of the parks most loved by the Romans and the third largest public park in Rome after Villa Doria Pamphili and Villa Ada, is the Villa Borghese Pinciana. It was built in the sixteenth century with the accumulation of possessions of the Borghese family at the beginning of 600 became powerful with the accession to the papal throne of Paul V. The architectural commission was headed by Flaminio Ponzio and John Vasanzio. The house was enlarged by Cardinal Scipione Borghese, nephew of Pope Paul V and patron of Bernini Gianlorenzo, with the intention of creating a "garden of delights" and the largest garden built in ancient Rome. The Villa Borghese Pinciana is home to the Galleria Borghese, a real treasure trove of artistic masterpieces. The Galleria Borghese is the result of the art of Cardinal Scipione Borghese, who in the early 1600 built the villa just for housing his collection. It is a unique museum by the number and importance of the sculptures of Gian Lorenzo Bernini and paintings by Caravaggio hosting. Many artists have enriched the collection of the Borghese Gallery as Agnolo Bronzino, Antonio Canova, Raphael, Peter Paul Rubens and Titian. Among the must-see sculptures include masterpieces by Bernini: Aeneas, The Rape of Proserpina, Apollo and Daphne, and David. Do not miss the Sacred and Profane Love by Titian and Raphael's Deposition Baglioni. Beautiful paintings by Caravaggio: Boy with a Basket of Fruit, Sick Bacchus, Madonna of the Grooms and David with the Head of Goliath. Beautiful is the Princess Pauline Borghese, Napoleon's favorite sister, portrayed by Canova. Since 2006, the Borghese Gallery has launched a major project called "Ten Great Exhibitions" combining the masterpieces of the Borghese collection prestigious loans from major museums of the world.
Rome Tour guide
Rome is the cradle of Christianity. Living in the city two countries: Italy and the Vatican. It is a must visit to the Vatican and the impressive Basilica of St. Peter. Currently Rome is the city with most churches in the world that are home to priceless treasures from artists such as Raphael, Michelangelo, Caravaggio, Bernini and Canova. Rome's cathedral is the Basilica of St. John Lateran. With St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican, the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls and the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore,it is one of the four papal basilicas. Over the centuries, these churches have exercised a considerable influence on the development of architecture in much of the Christian world. They are part of the so-called tour of the seven churches that the faithful come to Rome had to be done on foot and in a single day. The other three churches that are part of this route are the Basilica of St. Lawrence Outside the Walls, the Basilica of Santa Croce in Gerusalemme and San Sebastiano fuori le mura. Very important is the church of San Clemente in Lateran. It is divided into three levels: the first is a Roman Domus, the second an early Christian basilica and the last one visible in the open, the Basilica of San Clemente. Hidden away in the streets of Monti distict, the church of St. Praxedes, maintains some mosaics of the ninth century. Wonderful is the church of Santa Sabina on the Aventine, one of the best preserved early Christian churches ever. Santo Stefano Rotondo al Celio has a unique charm. Baroque in each element is St. Ignatius of Loyola at Campus Martius. Obtained from the ancient Baths of Diocletian's is St. Mary of the Angels and Martyrs. A few steps from the Pantheon is Santa Maria sopra Minerva. Beautiful is Santa Cecilia in Rome Trastevere. The skyline of Rome is characterized by the presence of many domes. The most important is the Dome of St. Peter's Basilica, designed by Michelangelo. The largest of the modern dome is the dome of the Basilica of St. John Bosco Quadraro. Do not forget the twin domes of the Piazza del Popolo and that of the Church of Saint Ivo alla Sapienza.
Rome Tour guide
Pasta Museum
Alternate Text: The National Museum of the pasta is around the Scanderbeg Square 117, in the Palazzo Scanderbeg, the slopes of the Quirinale.
Tags: Rome, Made in Italy, Barilla, Alberto Sordi, Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain, Quirinale.
The paste, called the Queen of the Mediterranean diet, is a food made in Italy known and appreciated throughout the world. In Trevi district in Scanderbeg Square, around the corner from the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon and Piazza Navona discover Pasta Museum housed in the sixteenth century Palazzo Scanderbeg. Previously Scanderbeg Palace was the residence of the Roman prince, champion of Christianity and staunch defender of Western civilization, Skanderbeg of Albania. Wander into this tasty and unusual place opened in 1993 with the help of the Foundation Vincenzo Agnesi! You'll discover the whole Italian invention that made possible the development of pasta worldwide. Walk back through the history of the dough over the past eight centuries, know the real machinery used in the production chain and works of art dedicated to pasta from antiquity to the present day. Among the curiosities stand out the eye-catching photos of celebrities such as Toto, Sofia Loren and Alberto Sordi grappling with the traditional plate of spaghetti. "Macaroni ... hast caused and I will destroy you, macaroni! Said the great Alberto Sordi in the film 'An American in Rome'. In eleven rooms Grain, Ligure, Valeriani, Travaglini, Industrial Archaeology, Rubino Scaglione, Montuschi, Santi Correnti, Cordeglio, PE Taviani, Della Nutrizione, you will know the history of what has been called our "First cultural." Another first museum resides in hosting the only library in the world dedicated to pasta. Pasta Museum is open to the public every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, except holidays, from 9:30 to 12:30. Pasta Museum is therefore a little gem in the history of Italian customs, which can also be tasted in its references fun in the world of film and theater, including two of the rooms are dedicated.
Rome Tour guide
The Montemartini, on the Via Ostiense, is the most recent of the venues of the system of museums in common.
Tags: Rome, Testaccio, Pyramid, Capitoline Museum, Circus Flaminius, Campidoglio, Theatre of Pompey, Largo Argentina.
The former Thermal Power Station, dedicated to Giovanni Montemartini, was the first public facility for the production of electricity. Today the Central Monte Martini is an extraordinary example of industrial archeology converted into a museum. It is located along the Via Ostiense on the left bank of the Tiber River, opposite the former General Market. In 1997 to free up space in the Museum of the Palace of the Conservatives, the New Museum and the New Wing, in the renovated rooms of the former Central was an exhibition entitled "The machines and the gods". Were combined two opposing worlds as classical archeology and industrial archeology. The vast rooms of the building, in particular the engine room with its precious Art Nouveau décor preserve turbines, diesel engines and colossal steam boiler. The Centrale Monte Martini is the second exhibition of the Capitoline Museums and houses masterpieces of classical sculpture, representing the Olympian gods greek and Roman, found during excavations in Rome in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. On the first floor you can admire a magnificent monument rebuilt: the pediment of the temple of Apollo Sosiano. Discover finds from the areas of the circus Flaminio, the Campidoglio, and the theater of Pompey. Will amaze the colossal statue of the goddess Fortuna from Largo Argentina and the pensive figure of the muse Polyhymnia. The Hall of Boilers exhibits masterpieces of horti dell'Esquilino, horti Sallustiani, horti Spei Veteris Porta Maggiore. Unknown to the general public is the splendid mosaic with hunting scenes from Saint Bibiana. The museum Centrale Monte Martini is placed inside of a larger redevelopment project area Ostiense Marconi comprising over to the power station Montemartini, the Slaughterhouse, the Gazometro, port facilities, the former Mira Lanza and the old General Markets.
Rome Tour guide
The Museo Carlo Bilotti is a contemporary art museum of the city of Rome, including paintings, sculptures and watercolors donated by entrepreneur Carlo Bilotti. The Museo Carlo Bilotti is part of the system of "Museums in the City" and the project "Children's Museum" of Villa Borghese. Is set in the Villa Borghese's Orangery known in the eighteenth century as Casino dei Giochi d'Acqua for the presence of fountains and nymphs. Here Borghese princes organized parties and social events. After years of improper Orangery has once again become a place of entertainment, art and culture. The most interesting nucleus consists of 18 works by Giorgio De Chirico: Archaeologists mysterious (Mannequins, Day and Night, 1926); furniture in the room (1927); Archaeologists (1927 approx.) Horses in the sea (1927 -1928); Knight with two ancient characters by the sea (1929 approx.); Blond shoulders (ca. 1930); Archaeologist solitary (ca. 1937); Orestes and Pylades, terracotta sculpture (1940); Horse (watercolor, 1950 ca.); Self-portrait with the head of Minerva (1950 ca.); Historic regattas in Venice (1950 ca.); Warrior regent to bridle a horse (ca. 1953); Ancient knight (watercolor, 1960 ca.); Metaphysical Interior with Biscuits (ca. 1960); Mystery and Melancholy of a Street, girl with circle (watercolor, 1970 ca.); The archaeologist, sculpture (1972); Orpheus solitaire (1973). The Museo Carlo Bilotti also houses masterpieces by Gino Severini, Larry Rivers, Giacomo Manzu and Andy Warhol, master of Pop Art. We also remember the works of Consagra, Dynys, Greenfield-Sanders and Pucci. Outside of the Museum Carlo Bilotti admire the sculpture Hector and Andromeda by Giorgio De Chirico.
Rome Tour guide
Jewish Ghetto
The Jewish Ghetto Tour in Rome was formed in the sixteenth century with the population from Trastevere.
Tags: Rome, Trastevere, Tiber, Largo Argentina, Isola Tiberina, Castel Sant'Angelo, Vatican
In the historic center of Rome, between Largo Argentina and the Tiber Island, you can breathe the atmosphere of the Jewish Quarter. A commemorative plaque in Via del Portico d'Ottavia remembers the deportation took place October 16, 1943 of the Jewish Ghetto. The Jewish Ghetto in Rome is among the oldest in the ghettos of the world. The oldest is that of Venice. The area occupied by the Ghetto occupies about three hectares, the current Via del Portico d'Ottavia to Piazza delle Cinque Scole, the river Tiber. Passing behind the Portico of Octavia, dedicated to the sister of Emperor Augustus, you can take a nice walk through the old Jewish Ghetto. Here the streets are intertwined and branch out to make you lose all sense of direction. Among the surviving columns of the Portico of Octavia was built in the thirteenth century the Church of St. Angelo in Pescheria, site of forced sermons. Behind the Portico of Octavia is observed the apse of S. Maria in Campitelli: here, during the Nazi period, the Israelites of the ghetto often found solace and protection. You will be impressed by the majesty of the Synagogue, one of the largest temples in Europe, built between 1901 and 1904 between the Capitol, seat of the municipality, and the Janiculum, emblem of the battles of the Risorgimento. In the annexes to the Synagogue is located the Jewish Museum of Rome, you will be fascinated by the numerous testimonies. A corner of the Ghetto is extremely suggestive that occupied by the Church of St. Mary the Wailing, built around an icon painted on the wall and connected to a miraculous episode. Nearby are the church of San Tommaso to Cenci, of Santa Caterina dei Funari, St. Stanislaus of the Poles. Continuing we get to Piazza delle Cinque Scole: the name recalls the Palace of the Five Synagogues that was here. The scents of historic trattorias and restaurants kosher Ghetto will guide you to taste typical Roman culinary tradition.
Rome Tour guide
National Museum of Musical Instruments in Santa Croce in Gerusalemme
Alternate Text: The National Museum of Musical Instruments is housed in the building Samoggia in Piazza Santa Croce in Gerusalemme alongside the Church of the Holy Cross of Jerusalem in Rome.
Tags: Rome, Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, the Basilica of St. John Lateran, Porta Maggiore, Aurelian Walls, Esquilino
Next to the Basilica of Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, one of the seven churches of Rome that pilgrims had to visit on foot in a day, the Palazzina Samoggia houses the National Museum of Musical Instruments. We are in the Rione Esquilino, near the Aurelian Walls and the Amphitheatre Castrense, between the Basilica of St. John Lateran and Porta Maggiore. In 1900, this area was built one of the largest barracks in Italy dedicated to Umberto I and then called the "Prince of Piedmont". Consisted of three barracks arranged in a horseshoe and dedicated to three heroic grenadiers fallen: Setti, Capocci and Samoggia. The first was demolished in 1960, while the Barracks Capocci was restored in 2007 and has become the headquarters of the Directorate General for Live Entertainment and Direction for Cinema of the Ministry of Culture. The Casermetta Samoggia was used as a refugee camp Giuliani until 1959 and in 1964 accepted the collection of musical instruments of the tenor Evan Gorga, first deployed in various warehouses. In 1974 it was officially inaugurated the National Museum of Musical Instruments. For wealth and value of the tools stored is the largest European institute of this kind. It consists largely from the private collection of Evan Gorga and now houses about three thousand specimens of different ages and backgrounds. The exhibits are more than a thousand: the Far East to the archaeological sites in southern Etruria, distributed along a time span ranging from the late-Hellenistic period to the twentieth century. Among the examples of exceptional historic and artistic value that you can see here we recall the piano built by Bartolomeo Cristofori in 1723 and the famous Barberini Harp.
Rome Tour guide
Roman aqueducts Tour and the Great Beauty
Alternate Text: The Aqueduct Park is one of the most suitable places for those who love cycling and breathtaking sunsets that go out of the Castelli Romani.
Tags: Rome, Castelli Romani, Appia Antica, Dolce Vita
The film The Great Beauty of Paolo Sorrentino, recently released in theaters, is a big film tour through the places of Rome unusual and very baroque. The surreal sequence with Kravos performer in the role of artistic ultrasensitive interviewed with cynicism by Jep is set in the Park of the Aqueducts. The actress runs to the Claudian aqueduct, one of the seven included in Aqueduct Park. The park was used as a film set for other productions, including The dolce vita, Mamma Roma, The Marquis of Grillo and the television series Rome. Save the Park is part of the Regional Park of Appia Antica and is located in the south-east of Rome in the City Hall VII. It is bordered by Via Capannelle, Via Appia Nuova, via Lemonia and via Quadraro. The name derives from the presence of the Roman aqueducts that supplied the ancient and papal Rome: Anio Vetus, Marcia, Tepula, Iulia, happy, Claudio and Anio Novus. The aqueducts are the most imposing work and original building of ancient Rome. The city was famous for its wide availability of public fountains, spas like those of Diocletian and Caracalla, dams, reservoirs, canals for irrigation so as to be named "Queen of the waters." The guided visit to the Park of the Aqueducts of Rome you past numerous archaeological remains: the overlapping arches of the aqueducts of Claudius and Anio Novus; The arches of the Acqua Felice; The Field Barbarico; Il Casale di Roma Vecchia; The Tomb of the Hundred Steps; The Marrana Water Mariana; Tor Tax, Medieval tower; The Villa Vignacce, attributed to Quintus Servilius Pudens, with nearby cistern; The House of the Seven Bassi, belonged to a console or prefect named Settimio Basso.
Rome Tour guide
Subiaco is a town in the Province of Rome, in Lazio. The architecture, the history and the landscape make the city of Subiaco a destination not to be missed. We propose a route to the discovery of its long history. Our tour guides will accompany you in this beautiful medieval village. We will walk through the narrow streets. We will visit ancient churches. We will stop in pleasant squares. Worthy of note are Piazza Sant'Andrea, Piazzetta Pietra Sprecata e Piazza Santa Maria della Valle. This medieval square is one of the most beautiful places Subiaco. On the square is the Church of Santa Maria della Valle, built in 1798. From here you will climb up the Rocca Orsini. It overlooks the whole territory. Another stop on your tour will be the imposing Rocca dei Borgia. The fortress was built in the eleventh century by the Abbot of St. Scholastica, John V, to establish the rule of the castle monastery of Subiaco. Lucrezia Borgia was born here. Inside the fortress you can visit the Museo delle Attività Cartarie e della Stampa. Are you fond of archeology? In Subiaco are the most important Roman aqueducts: Anio Vetus, Aqua Marcia, Aqua Claudia and Anio Novus. The modern road follows the route of the old way Sublacenseis. This road was built by Emperor Nero to reach his villa at Subiaco. We will cross the bridge St. Francesco on the river Aniene. From here we reach the convent of St. Francesco. It 's the oldest in the area. It was built in the sixteenth century. The church has a wooden triptych of Antoniozzo Romano. Do not miss are the Benedictine monasteries of Subiaco. After the visit to the Convent of San Francesco we drive to the monastery of St. Scholastica. It is the oldest Benedictine monastery in Italy and in the world. It was founded in 520 by St. Benedict. It was originally dedicated to St. Sylvester. The Monastery reached the age of greatest splendor between the tenth and eleventh centuries. It acquired its current name in the late fourteenth century. From St. Scholastica we can make a short stop at the Villa of Nero. The name of Subiaco is due to the three artificial lakes created by Nero for his villa. It consisted of a number of buildings on both sides of the river Aniene. In this villa the Emperor was in danger of being killed by lightning. This was interpreted as a bad omen. After a brief stop at the Chapel of Santa Crocella reach the Sacro Speco. The monastery, the last leg of our journey, was built in the place where the young Benedict of Nursia retired in prayer for three years. Here the saint gave rise to the monastic order of the Benedictines. The monastery of St. Benedict was built in the eleventh century by the Abbot Umberto. The building is decorated with incredible frescoes depicting scenes from the life of the saint. Book your guided tour. Enter the kingdom of peace!
Rome Tour guide
Tour of the archaeological site of Ostia Antica. Discover the monuments of the ancient port of Rome. Book your guided tour. You will be amazed. Ostia may have been Rome's first colonia.The site is noted for the excellent preservation of its ancient buildings, magnificent frescoes and impressive mosaics. Ostia takes its name from the ostium, the mouth of the river. Here the river Tiber ended its course before flowing into the Tyrrhenian Sea. The city was founded by King Anco Marzio in 620 BC. Ostia was built as a fortified camp in the fourth century BC. It was implanted on two main streets that crossed at right angles to the center: the cardine and the maximum decumano. Subsequently developed as a naval base. The port of Ostia was built by the Emperor Claudius, in the vicinity of the international airport of Fiumicino. Later the port was expanded by Emperor Trajan with the beautiful hexagonal basin. Ostia was the hub of commercial goods to Rome. The city grew in wealth and prestige, reaching a climax with the urban renewal of the Emperor Hadrian, when it had more than 100,000 inhabitants. Following the Barbarian invasions, when the port was abandoned and was covered in mud, began the decline of Ostia. The archaeological excavations undertaken at the beginning of the nineteenth century have brought to light the ancient city. Our tour guides will be happy to take you on an unforgettable ride. The route will start in Via delle Tombe leading to Porta Romana. It is one of the three entrances to the city. We will admire the "Decuman maximus", the main road that crosses the city from northeast to southwest. Then we will head to the Baths of Neptune. You will be fascinated by the beautiful mosaics whites and blacks representing Neptune and Amphitrite. We will visit the theater built by Agrippa. We arrive then at the heart of the ancient city: the Forum. Here you will discover the main public buildings: the "Capitolium", the temple of Rome and Augustus, the Basilica and the large thermal baths. Do not miss the House of Diana and the "Thermopolium", an ancient Roman bar with a marble case and a fresco depicting the fruit and foodstuffs that were sold. As a last step we propose the Museo Ostiense.
Rome Tour guide
The Castelli Romani is a group of comunes in the province of Rome. They are located on the Alban Hills, a few miles from Rome, south-easterly direction. The name dates back to the fourteenth century, when many of the inhabitants of Rome, to escape the economic and political difficulties, took refuge in the castles of the feudal roman families of the Savelli, Annibaldi, Orsini and Colonna. The Castelli Romani are: Albano Laziale, Ariccia, Castel Gandolfo, Ciampino, Colonna,Frascati, Genzano di Roma, Grottaferrata, Lanuvio,Lariano, Marino,Monte Compatri, Monte Porzio Catone,Nemi, Rocca di Papa, Rocca Priora,Velletri. The countries are rich in attractions . Book your guided tour of the Castelli Romani. You will not regret! Every corner of the Castelli Romani is a small paradise! Do not miss it Frascati, the city of wine. Here worthy of note is the Villa Aldobrandini. You'll be impressed by its beautiful gardens. Visit Nemi, the most beautiful country of the Castelli Romani. Taste the typical strawberries with whipped cream in one of the cafes overlooking the lake. Here you will find the famous Roman Ship Museum and the Temple of Diana. Ariccia must visit are the Palace and Park Chigi. You will have lunch in the famous "fraschette", local characteristic derived from the old cellars. Rocca Priora is the highest of the Castelli Romani. Here you can enjoy the most beautiful panorama of Rome and Lake Albano. Book the tour on the ancient Via Sacra leading, since the time of the Romans, to the temple of Jupiter Latin Monte Cavo. In Grottaferrata can visit the Greek Abbey of St. Nile, founded in 1004 by monks from Calabria. Castel Gandolfo is the summer residence of the Pope, it is located close to the lake of Castel Gandolfo. When the weather permits, it is worth making here a nice relaxing bath. Other country is no less Genzano di Roma, famous for the Flower Festival. The Castelli Romani are known for cooking and for white wine that is produced in these areas. Enjoy the typical products of the Castelli Romani. Among the best known are the Ariccia pork, bread and mushrooms to Larian, chestnuts in Rocca di Papa, Nemi strawberries and wine in Frascati.
Rome Tour guide
Ariccia is one of the best known and most popular of the Castelli Romani. In ancient times it was called Curly. Ariccia has ancient origins. Aricia was one of the most important Roman communities, a favorite holiday destination of emperors and magistrates. Recall the villa of Emperor Vitellius. Its inhabitants were very devoted to the goddess Diana. His temple, located in the woods of Ariccia (now Nemi), was one of the main shrines of the Roman era. During the Middle Ages, Ariccia was sacked by barbarians. In 1473 it passed to the Savelli family. They rebuilt the town and began construction of the Baronial Palace. In the seventeenth century the city came to the Chigi. Chigi Pope Alexander was responsible for the radical transformation of the village. The village was completely redesigned by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, who availed himself of his best collaborators among which Carlo Fontana. Beautiful are the Church of the Assumption and the square that faces the Palazzo Chigi. The church was consecrated on May 16, 1664, with a Mass celebrated by Pope Alexander VII. Bernini was inspired by the architecture of the Pantheon. The Chigi Palace is a unique example of baroque residence. It has an extension of approximately 2000 m2. Between 1664 and 1672, commissioned by Alessandro Chigi worked there Bernini and Fontana. You can visit: the rooms of Cardinal Flavio Chigi on the ground floor, the main floor to the first floor, and museum areas on the second floor. The palace has an important collection of paintings, sculptures and furniture, mostly dating from the seventeenth century. Palazzo Chigi is attached to the large park of 28 hectares, dating from the sixteenth century. It recalls the romantic gardens. It is rich in vegetation, archaeological and fountains. The park was designed by Bernini and Fontana and was one of the prime goals of the Grand Tour of Italy. Among the most important monuments, the Aviary was built in 1628 by the Savelli and the impressive Roman monument of Tiberius propraetor Latinio Pandusa, coming from the Appia Antica.
Every corner of the Castelli Romani is a little paradise. Do not miss it Frascati, "City of Wine and villas". You'll be impressed by booking your guided tour in Frascati. The town is situated at 320 meters above sea level, in a dominant position in Rome. It is about 20 km from Rome which is easily accessible. Our tour guides will propose an itinerary that will allow you to enjoy the most beautiful places in Frascati. The town is famous for Tusculum Villas. The mild climate, the abundance of water and the proximity of Rome attracted many wealthy Romans who established his residence in Frascati. We organize itineraries Twelve villas in Tusculum. Some of these villas can be visited through the Regional Park of Castelli Romani. The villas were a "status symbol" of the Roman aristocracy. Initially they were simple country house, surrounded by farmland and woods. In the sixteenth century were intended for representation activities and the summer residence of the papal court. In the sixteenth and seventeenth century villas Tusculum became real palaces. We worked the most famous architects of the time. Here, schools classicist and baroque had the place to their highest expression, both in sculpture and painting. The artists were inspired by the setting of the Imperial Roman villas. Beautiful are the nymphs that adorn the gardens. They were places of leisure and meditation. The water, combined with the sculpture and all 'architecture, was a source of amusement. Currently the villas are in good conditions. The twelve Tusculum, which fall in the town of Frascati and in the territories of neighboring and Grottaferrata Monte Porzio Catone, are: Villa Aldobrandini, Villa Falconieri, Villa Torlonia, Villa Parisi, Villa Lancellotti, Villa Tuscolana o Rufinella, Villa Sora, Villa Sciarra,Villa Mondragone,Villa Grazioli, Villa Muti,Villa Vecchia.
Frascati Tour Villa Aldobrandini
Villa Aldobrandini is located in Frascati . It is easily visible from a distance for anyone who is heading to the town. At the entrance of the villa, in the main square of Frascati, we can admire the monumental entrance of the architect Carlo Francesco Bizzaccheri of the eighteenth century. The bombing of the war have devastated the hopelessly villa. Villa Aldobrandini is the most popular Tusculum, built in the sixteenth century in the territory. The villa enjoys a magnificent panoramic position, hence the name Villa Belvedere. It is surrounded by a beautiful park where you can admire centuries old oaks and plantains. It was built for Cardinal Pietro Aldobrandini, nephew of Pope Clement VIII, on an existing building in 1550 belonged to Monsignor Alessandro Rufino. Initially, the villa was characterized by a rectangular shape with a central hall surrounded by several rooms. Probably the building consisted of a basement, a ground floor and a first floor. In 1607 the villa was sold to Cardinal Scipione Borghese, who built the fountains and the aqueduct needed to power them. With family Borghese, Villa Aldobrandini, was to be divided into three floors, with a large terrace in front. The project worked Giovanni Fontana, Carlo Maderno and Flaminio Ponzio. They realized the waterfall in the park. It then went to the Ludovisi with whom underwent important transformations. They asked their friend Pontius to complete the grand fountain in the Park with the so-called "Theatre of the waters", decorated with statues and vases. Between 1661 and 1680 the house passed to the Colonna , then to the Conti until 1820. During the period in which the villa belonged to the Conti had produced the stairs four flights crossed in the Park. Then passed to the Sforza in 1841 and to the Torlonia family. The garden was replaced by rows of trees that still create a dense network of trails. Inside the villa there are frescoes of Mannerist and Baroque artists such as Zuccari brothers, Cavalier d'Arpino and Domenichino. Book your guided tour of Villa Aldobrandini.
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Cerveteri is only 40 km from Rome, overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. It is accessible from Via Aurelia and from the Rome-Civitavecchia. Discover Cerveteri! Book your guided tour! You will enter a magical atmosphere. Previously known as Caere. The town is famous throughout the world for its illustrious past as a center of the Etruscan civilization. Do not miss the Etruscan Necropolis of Banditaccia. It is one of the most important necropolis in the Mediterranean Sea. In 2004, it declared, together with the necropolis of Tarquinia, UNESCO World Heritage Site. The necropolis extends for about 10 hectares and consists of nearly 400 burials. Walking through the streets of the ancient necropolis admire burials, houses, tombs and places of social life. The symbol of the necropolis of Banditaccia is the beautiful Tomb of the Reliefs. The guided tour allows you to get access to the Etruscan necropolis of Sorbo. There are numerous other tombs of Etruscan origin, including that of the Capitelli, the Capanna, of Vasi greci, the Rilievi, the Casetta e the Cornici. They also remember the mounds of Colonello and Mengarelli. The itinerary includes a guided visit to the National Museum Cerite. It is located inside the Castle Ruspoli, located in the center of the town. The Museum displays archaeological finds coming from ancient Caere. On display are a number of sarcophagi from the Hellenistic period found in the Tomb of Tasmie and the Tomb of Sarcofagi . Stands the small urn with the reproduction of the couple at a banquet, fine copy of the famous sarcophagus stored at Villa Giulia. Also famous is the crater of the Painter Eptacordo, an artist working in Caere in the early decades of the seventh century BC. The visit to the churches is an important event for the tourist. You can visit Santa Maria Maggiore, Saint Anthony, Saint Michael the Archangel, Holy Trinity, Our Lady of the Reeds, Our Lady of the Candles, Holy Cross, St. Francis of Assisi and St. Eugene. These churches hold works of particular value. Interesting to visit are the Castle of the Middle Ages, the renaissance Palazzo Ruspoli and the Rock. A Cerveteri history blends with nature. The town is ideal for those wishing to spend a few days in the hills and go for long walks in direct contact with nature. If you love the sea, you can end the day by going into the black sand beach. You will spend unforgettable moments. Among the many festivals that are held in Cerveteri stands the beautiful parade that is held in late August on the occasion of the Festival of Grapes and Wine. Cerveteri is a very interesting country, to explore!
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Tuscania Guided Tour
Tuscania is an ancient Etruscan city. It is 24 km from Viterbo. We have two legends about the origin of the city. The first says that the city was founded by the son of Aeneas, Ascanius, on the site of the discovery of twelve puppies. Hence the Latin name Tuscana. The second legend indicates that the city was founded by the son of Hercules, Tuscus. The guided tour in Tuscania offers a pleasant stroll through the historic center of ancient churches, palaces and noble alleys. The symbol of the town is the hill of San Pietro, inhabited since the ninth century BC. There are numerous remains from the Etruscan and Roman periods. The hill coincides with the area of the acropolis of the Etruscan period. Today you can see the overlap of three major civilization: Etruscan, Roman and Middle Ages. Famous are the Necropolis of Our Lady of the Olive and Necropolis of Pian di Mola. Suggestive underground Etruscan tombs with carved facades. On the hill of San Pietro is the imposing Romanesque Basilica of St. Peter. Book a guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica, one of the most important examples of Romanesque church in Italy. Majestic is the thirteenth-century facade with large central rose window and the great bas-reliefs. Great is the three-nave interior. Worthy of note are the remains of the mosaic floor and the frescoes of the twelfth-thirteenth century. You can visit the crypt. At the foot of the hill of San Pietro is the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. It is the oldest cathedral in the city. The interior is decorated with medieval frescoes and rich marble furnishings from various periods. You cannot leave without visiting the Tuscania old town protected by the walls of tufa. It is a beautiful medieval village. Here you will find the church of Santa Maria della Rosa, a masterpiece of Romanesque art, and the Cathedral of St. James in with a fine altarpiece by Andrea di Bartolo. The itinerary includes a visit to the Archaeological Museum, housed in the Renaissance building of St. Mary's Rest. The museum displays fine sarcophagi and other artifacts from the Etruscan necropolis of the town. There are many green areas: Natural Reserve Tuscania, Park Tower Basin, Park Umberto II or "Casacce" and the Garden City.
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Visit Viterbo. Book your guided tour in the beautiful City of the Popes. The tour guides will tell you about its ancient Etruscan origins up to the most glorious period of the Middle Ages when it was chosen as the seat of the Pope. The symbol of the city is the Palace of the Popes. It was erected in 1266 at the behest of Raniero Gatti. Its function was to receive the papal court decision to move away from the Vatican. In this hall of residence five conclaves were held, including one which lasted 33 months and ended with the election as pope in 1271 GregorioX. It is said that the cardinals gathered for a long time, they failed to reach an agreement for the election of the Pope. The public, tired of waiting, forced Raniero Gatti to shut the gate "cum clave" (hence the word "conclave"), to reduce the food and to open the roof. The Palace of the Popes has an austere appearance with a beautiful arched loggia. Beautiful is the district of San Pellegrino, an example of a completely preserved thirteenth district. Here you can admire the towers, houses and squares that will allow you to capture the charm of medieval Viterbo. Walking through the main street you will reach Piazza San Pellegrino, the most suggestive of the district, which is overlooked by the church San Pellegrino, and the Palazzo degli Alessandri. Not to be forgotten is the Romanesque church of S. Maria Nuova (XI cent.), with the original cloister Lombard. The next stop is the Piazza del Plebiscito, dominated by the Clock tower 44 meters high. On the square facing the Apostolic Palace, the Palace of the Podestà and the Palace of the Priori. Inside the Palace of the Priori, you can admire the frescoes of the Sala Regia (XVI cent.), which illustrate the legends and history of the city. Viterbo has an abundance of water. The source of the Bullicame has been known since ancient times for its healing properties and even mentioned by Dante in his Divine Comedy. Recall the sources of Bagnaccio, where was an important station of the Roman Aquae Passeris reported in Table Peutingeriana, an ancient map which included all Roman military roads. The squares of Viterbo are characterized by beautiful fountains of various ages. The most monumental is the Great Fountain. Do not miss the Rocca Albornoz, home of the National Museum. The itinerary includes a visit to the spa. The spa was the most important of Viterbo Terme Bacucco. They also appear in two drawings by Michelangelo Buonarroti. The tour ends with a visit to Viterbo Underground.
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Coming in Civita di Bagnoregio find a dreamscape. A nucleus of a few houses perched and isolated on a tufa rock. The country resists the gradual subsidence of the land. The old village is doomed. A few more years, maybe ten, maybe twenty, maybe a few months, and then the end is secure. Civita di Banoregio is called the "Dying city". The landscape surrounding the cliff is a unique spectacle. You can admire the beautiful scenery of the Valle dei Calanchi. Civita di Bagnoregio is accessible only on foot via a narrow bridge about 300 meters long. Only this bridge connects the village to the outside world. You will walk suspended in the air. The country remained unchanged, it is one of the last medieval Italian scenarios. In ancient times it was an important political and religious center. Here in 1217 was born Franciscan philosopher St. Bonaventure. The guided tour will make you travel back in time to the Middle Ages. After having walked in the door you will enter the village in the heart of the town. Do not miss are St. Peter's Square and Piazza S. Donato. Walking through the ancient streets you can admire the Municipal Building, the Palace of Justice with the old prison, the former Bishopric, the Palace Mazzocchi-Alemanni. We will focus on the beautiful Cathedral of San Donato, which houses a wooden crucifix by Donatello school and the fresco of the Madonna Liberator attributed to the workshop of Perugia. The route continues via the Madonna of Majesty. Here was an ancient gate collapsed in the earthquake of 1695. The last leg of your wonderful day will be the spectacular view of the Valle dei Calanchi. Testimony of a slow but inexorable erosion process began millions of years ago and still in the making. You will see the hills alternating with ravines, valleys alternating with impressive cliffs.
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Located at 22 km from Viterbo is situated in the famous park of Monsters of Bomarzo. The park was originally called Sacro Bosco. It was built in the second half of the century. XVI on a series of artificial terraces. The owner was Pier Francesco Orsini, called Vicino, eccentric scholar and man of arms. He commissioned the architect Pirro Ligorio to create a Sacred Forest, in memory of his wife Julia, who died prematurely. The park is currently owned by the family Bettini, while the Orsini Palace, the heart of the town of Bomarzo, is the seat of the Municipal Administration. The Monster Park is one of the most original artistic creations of Tuscia, in response to the taste of the grotesque and the bizarre late sixteenth century. It is one of the most important works of Italian Mannerism. The guided tour is divided into a fascinating literary and philosophical journey. The visitor is led into a fascinating journey through the maze of the human soul. The monumental complex develops into a natural slope. The terraces are carved with gigantic figures of grotesque animals. These are realized by exploiting the huge volcanic boulders present. Among the numerous works depicting characters and mythological epics are: Orlando Furioso, Pegasus, Fame, Venus, Pluto, Proserpina, the sorceress Armida, the Dragon, the Elephant, Cerberus. You will be struck by the awesome Mouth of Hades. Inside its gaping mouth is a room. Stands the Casina pendent that causes a feeling of dizziness. Mention must be also devoted to the Temple Giulia Farnese and the Gigantic elephant in battle. The path was marked with a series of inscriptions in verse, the first of which gives us so welcome: Voi che pel mondo gite errando vaghi - di veder maraviglie alte et stupende - venite qua dove son faccie horrende - elefanti leoni orsi orche et draghi. The park of Monsters of Bomarzo is absolutely unique in its kind. Do not miss it!
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Bagnaia is a characteristic medieval village on the outskirts of the city of Viterbo. After the bridge entrance to the main square you can go to visit the famous Villa Lante. The garden of Villa Lante is the winner of the "Most Beautiful Garden Italia2011". Come and discover the history and curiosities of the wonderful garden of Villa Lante. You can admire the fountains, decorated tanks, waterfalls and fountains that the highest terrace of the park, go down to the garden below. Main element is water, from a source of the Cimini mountains. When the city of Viterbo became a bishopric, was built not far from the city, a summer residence for the bishops properly. It was chosen the quiet village of Bagnaia. The location was ideal for the stop, rest and hunting. Pope Leo X was one of his most frequent visitors. Villa Lante was built in the sixteenth century, at the behest of the card. De Gambara likely on a project of Vignola. It is a spectacular composition of residential, park and Italian garden. From the highest terrace, water, following the slope, feeds the fountains below. Striking is the Fountain of the Flood, housed in a rock covered with a luxuriant vegetation. Not least are the Dolphin Fountain and the Fountain of the Giants (symbolizing the Arno and the Tiber). Worthy of note is the fountain of Cardinal table. It has spacious edges to allow the support of food during the outdoor boarding. Coming to the Fountain of Tealights you can enjoy a splendid view of the garden. At the center of the garden there is the Fountain Square, dominated by the group of the Four Moors. In the palaces of Villa Lante are interesting frescoes. The building on the right, built by Cardinal Gambara, houses the paintings of the Mannerist school of the Zuccari and Antonio Tempesta. Walls and ceilings are decorated with religious and mythological stories, hunting scenes and landscapes. The building Montalto, left, was completed around 1590 and decorated at the beginning of the seventeenth century by Agostino Tassi and the Cavalier d'Arpino.
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Bolsena is situated north of Viterbo, near Umbria. It is known for its beautiful lake in front of it Bolsena is a place where you can still breathe an atmosphere of spirituality. It is located on the route of the ancient Via Francigena. Book a guided tour of Bolsena and its treasures. You will know the history of those who have inhabited this beautiful land: the Etruscans, the Goths, the Lombards and the Farnese. The itinerary includes a visit to the historic center and the Collegiate Church of Santa Cristina. This consists of three churches side by side, two chapels and a system of underground catacombs. Preserves the remains of Santa Cristina, lived and martyred in Bolsena beginning of the century IV, and the altar on which, in 1263, came the Eucharistic miracle of Corpus Christi. With our guides walk back through the life of Santa Cristina, the miracle of wet stones from the blood and Corpus Christi. We will visit the Church of S. Cristina of the fourth century, and the Miracle Cave, which houses the stone with the mark of the Saint. You'll marvel at the Chapel of the Eucharistic Miracle, with wet stones from the blood of SS. The castle Modaneschi was built in the Middle Ages. It is placed on top of the medieval village and has a square plan with towers that turn a blind corners. Inside today houses the territorial museum of Lake Bolsena. From the castle Monaldeschi, opens a picturesque view of the lake. Not to be missed is the exploration of the Bolsena lake by boat, and the circumnavigation of the island Bisentina. Forests of oaks, poplars, cedars of Lebanon, oaks and maples inhabit the islands. You will be seduced by the lush vegetation. The lake has some of the most fascinating and beautiful landscapes of the area, that only an exploration tour allows you to discover. Lake Bolsena is completely bathing and recognized as one of the cleanest in Europe. The waters are crystal clear. Bolsena has a fully equipped marina where there is also a renowned sailing school.
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Caprarola is located 16 km from Viterbo. It owes its fame to the link with the Farnese family. Here the family built his imposing residence. The Farnese Palace is an architectural gem, famous throughout the world. The guided tour of the Palazzo Farnese is a journey into history, specifically in the late Renaissance. The palace was built by architects, who changed the logical design of the era. Recall Sangallo, Peruzzi and Vignola. The Farnese Palace was built and designed by Vignola at the behest of Cardinal Alessandro Farnese, on the foundations of a pentagonal fortress of Antonio da Sangallo the Younger. Admire spectacular sixteenth-century residence which is spread over five levels taking advantage of the natural slope. Beautiful is the facade that overlooks the entire town of Caprarola. With our guides you enter the building along a double flight of stairs, located on a large trapezoidal square. You can admire the magnificent Scala Regia, a spiral staircase from the steps so broad as to be climbed on horseback by Alessandro Farnese. We access from the stairway to the main floor. Here we find the Sala dei Fasti of Hercules with the depiction of the mythological creation of Lake Vico, decorated by Zuccari. Beautiful are the Hall of the Council of Trent and the Hall of Dawn. To remember is the Hall of the Globe. It shows the known world from the descriptions of travelers. In the Hall of the Eco occurring special sound effects. Inside the Palazzo Farnese is the Circular Courtyard, where even today there are concerts and events. From the Farnese Palace, you can see Mount Soratte, Mount Terminillo, the Sabatini Mountains, valleys and forests. The Palazzo Farnese is certainly one of the most visited in the province of Viterbo. It is one of the most important monuments of the Renaissance in Europe. The itinerary also includes the old village and the ancient churches of the Church of St. Teresa and St. Mary of Consolation both by the Farnese.
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Bracciano is located only 35 km from Rome. It is a very nice country that overlooks the lake of Bracciano. It is 20 minutes drive from the sea. It is an enchanting place where nature has remained intact. The city, once a small village of fishermen and farmers, in 1419 bequeathed his name to the powerful Orsini family. The Orsini turned it into a thriving town characterized by the wonderful Odescalchi Castle. In 1470, Napoleon began the construction of the castle. In the second half of 1500, a restoration ordered by Paolo Giordano, had the aim of adapting the building to the most powerful artillery. In 1696 the castle passed to the Odescalchi family and, from 1803 to 1848 to the Torlonia family. Then it regained possession of the Odescalchi, who still hold the property. The last restoration was carried out at the end of the nineteenth century designed by the architect. Raffaele Ojetti. The famous Odescalchi Castle overlooking Bracciano. It is very well preserved. When booking your guided tour you will admire a beautiful feudal residences in Europe. In the Castle Odescalchi blend military architecture and civil architecture. Administrative center and representation of the important families who have owned. Our guide will welcome you to come inside the castle to admire the rooms, the furniture, the paintings, books and manuscripts, decorations and frescoes. The tour includes the beautiful medieval village. You will enjoy a pleasant walk in the streets of downtown. The typical restaurants of the old town offer prized dishes of Roman cuisine at affordable costs. From the city center you will reach the Museum of the Air Force. Here the guide will explain the large hangar that preserve the aircraft warfare used during the war. Do not miss the guided tour by boat on Lake Bracciano. You will know the atmosphere of the people who lived along the shores of the ancient lake. You will discover places and stories that the waters have flooded over the centuries. The lake is beautiful and surrounded by a beautiful natural park where you can relax. What are you waiting book your guided tour.
Rome Tour Guide
Sperlonga is a small town in the province of Latina, in southern Lazio. It is a picturesque fishing village perched on a rocky outcrop. According to tradition, the city of Amyclae, founded by the Spartans, stood here. The town developed around a castle on the promontory of San Magno, defense from the incursions of the Saracens by sea. The castle consisted of a small church dedicated to St. Peter, the patron saint of fishermen. In the eleventh century the town was surrounded by walls, of which traces remain of two ports: "Portella" and "Porta Marina". Over the centuries, the little village was continually threatened by pirates. Sperlonga was destroyed in 1534 by an attack of the Saracen pirate Khair ad-Din, called Barbarossa. The remaining three towers: Torre Truglia, built on a rock at 'extreme tip of the promontory of Sperlonga in 1532, Torre Capovento and Torre del Nibbio, included in the baronial castle dating back to 1500. The town took its present shape with the reconstruction of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Beautiful are the churches and palaces. Among them, the Palazzo Sabella that housed the antipope Clement VII in 1379, fleeing from Anagni after the defeat of Marino. Among the churches remind the church of Santa Maria di Sperlonga, dating back to 1135. Inside, the church contains a painting of the "Assumption" and a wooden statue of St. Leo the Great. Characteristic is the village characterized by narrow streets, stairways, arches and whitewashed houses typically Mediterranean. In recent decades Sperlonga has become one of the main tourist centers in the Lazio coast. The beauty of its beaches did not escape the Romans. Sperlonga is an important archaeological site. The Emperor Tiberius built his summer residence. The villa of Tiberius stood on a cavity at the level of the sea which is precisely known as the "Cave of Tiberius". The emperor Tiberius liked to spend a long time in the cool quiet of the cave. The "Cave of Tiberius" is the great attraction of Sperlonga. A must-visit is the National Archaeological Museum. It is located on Flacca and is visited by many tourists. The museum was created as a result of the discoveries made in the "Cave of Tiberius". Inside you can admire the sculptures found in the cave in 1957. They represent the blinding of Polyphemus, the assault of Scylla to the ship of Ulysses, the rats of the Palladium and Odysseus the body of Achilles.
Rome Tour Guide
Fondi is located halfway between Rome and Naples. According to legend, the city was founded by Hercules. It was an important commercial center for the Greeks and the Etruscans. He obtained the Roman citizenship in 338 BC. Fondi is mentioned in ancient sources for the important wine Cecubo production . The most prestigious red wine from the Roman era, enhanced by Horace, Martial and Pliny the Elder. Fondi was reduced to poverty as a result of the barbarian invasions and attacks of the Saracens. In 1534, the notorious pirate Kair-Ed-Din, called Barbarossa, attacked the city to kidnap the beautiful Giulia Gonzaga and donate her to the Sultan Suleiman II. Giulia, however, managed to escape the pirate who vented his anger looting and burning the city. Fondi reached its peak in the Caetani family (1299-1504). With the beautiful Giulia Gonzaga, wife of Vespasian Colonna, the city experienced a period of cultural revival. The dominant landmark is the. The first phase of construction dates back to the thirteenth century. The square tower and corner towers are attributable to the fourteenth century. The Castello Baronale was the site of many cultural events. In the nineteenth century there were arranged prisons. Even today you can see the graffiti of prisoners. Today the castle houses the Museo Civico. Beautiful is the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle. The gothic monument is divided into three naves. The portal of the cathedral is still the original. Admirable is the pulpit of the church, decorated with mosaics and geometric shapes. Worth seeing is the mausoleum Caetani. Interesting is the church of San Francesco, built in the fourteenth century. The church has two naves decorated in Romanesque and Gothic style. It is adjacent to the convent, built in the same era. The Convent of St. Francis, preceded by a portico, is structured around a cloister. At the center of the cloister there are three citrus trees and a well. The restoration of the complex was built by Onorato Gaetani II, as we read about the lintel on the gateway.
Rome Tour Guide
You can book tours to Gaeta. Gaeta is an ancient town in the province of Latina, in southern Lazio. The name comes from the nurse of Aeneas. Ancient legends of pirates are mixed with stories of saints. The city was an independent Duchy and glorious maritime republic. Incorporated in the United Bourbon, will be the last bastion before the unification of Italy. Everything is wrapped in a palpable aura of mystery. Suggestive context is the sanctuary of the Split Mountain and the church of SS. Trinity, founded in the eleventh century by Benedictine monks. The complex is mounted in the rock. Its impressive central staircase leads to the deep cleft, which, according to Christian tradition, would have formed the death of Christ. Along the narrow cleft of the rock you can see the so-called "Hand of the Turkish". According to legend, the hand would have formed when an unbeliever turkish sailor was leaning to the rock that miraculously became softer, forming the imprint of the hand. Another legend says that St. Philip Blacks lived inside the mountain. You can see the bed of stone called "The bed of St. Philip Blacks". Do not miss a visit to the Cave of Turkish. A stairway of 300 steps descend to the level of the sea to enjoy the beautiful green hues and turquoise. It is said that at the time of the Duchy of Gaeta, the ships of the Saracens took refuge in the Cave of Turkish and from there attacked by surprise transiting ships to plunder their cargoes. Our tour guides will accompany you on the road overlooking the beautiful beach of the Serapeum. From here you can admire a breathtaking landscape of the Mediterranean Sea. Famous is the military prison. Admirable is the old city with its gates and its churches. The itinerary includes the Church of the Olive Tree, Church of the Rosary , the Church of St. Dominic and the Aragonese Castle. Not to be missed is the Diocesan Museum, which represents the largest collection of art from around the southern Lazio.
Rome Tour Guide
The Garden of Ninfa is included in the territory of Cisterna di Latina and Sermoneta. It was built in 1920 by Gelasius Caetani, on the ruins of the medieval town of Ninfa. The name comes from a small temple from Roman times, dedicated to the Naiad nymphs, gods of spring water. Among the various families who ruled the town remember the Counts Tusculum, related to papal Rome. Under the Frangipani family architecture town flourished and grew the economic and political consideration of Ninfa. In 1298 Peter II Caetani bought Ninfa and other neighboring cities, marking the beginning of the presence of the Caetani in the pontine territory. The baronial mansion was built and expanded the Caetani castle. On your road map cannot find directions to Ninfa. This town no longer exists. Today only ruins remain. We recall the ruins of St. John, St. Blaise, St. Peter's Outside the Walls, San Salvatore and Santa Maria Maggiore. In 1382 Ninfa was plundered and destroyed by Onorato Caetani supporter of the antipope Clement VII in the Great Schism and against the branch of the Caetani family who owned Nymph. The city was never rebuilt, partly due to the malaria infested Pontine plain. The territory was recovered and offered for tourism. When booking your guided tour of the garden of Ninfa step into the historic garden of international renown. Here Virgina Woolf, Truman Capote, Ungaretti, Moravia, found the inspiration for their creations. It is a romantic landscape garden of about eight hectares. Medieval ruins, water features and plants from every continent will immerse you in a world of rare beauty. Among the 1300 species that you can see the holly remember the dogwoods, ornamental apple trees and the tulip tree. Many varieties of roses that climb on trees and ruins, border the river and streams. In the spring ornamental cherry trees bloom in spectacular fashion.
Rome Tour Guide
The town of Sabaudia is located in the heart of the Pontine region, 90 km from Rome and 25 from Latina. The city was founded in 1933, after the draining of the Pontine Marshes. The guided tour in Sabaudia will allow you to immerse yourself in a mysterious reality. There are stories of witches and Roman emperors. The appointment is in Piazza Regina Margherita. Here we will visit the church of SS. Annunziata, which opened February 24, 1935. Mosaic on the facade that you will see is the scene of the Annunciation with images related to the environment and the life of the remediation period. We will continue with a visit to the Royal Chapel, built by Queen Margaret and dedicated to Umberto I. Inside an altar carved in walnut. On the ceiling is carved the coat of arms of the House of Savoy. Along the way we will reach the promenade in Torre Paola. This is located at the bridge called Canale Romano. Then will follow a path, characterized by a beautiful grove of oaks, and arrive at the peak of Circe. Here we look at the buildings that made up the temple complex of Circe. On clear days you can enjoy a spectacular panorama of the Pontine plain. The itinerary offers the opportunity to visit the Civic Tower. From high you can contemplate a beautiful view. Not to be missed is the Municipal Museum of the Sea and Coast “Marcello Zei”, established in 1992. Museum is divided into two main thematic sections. The first section focuses on marine biology and evolution of the Pontine coast from prehistoric times until the present day. The second section deals with the history of Sabaudia, from Roman times until today. If you love nature, you can walk along a beautiful nature trail, admire cork trees and continue to the Lake of Paola. You will be fascinated by the ancient dunes that characterize the landscape. This environment is a paradise for bird watchers. The lake is also accessible via the bike path. On the shores of Lake of Paola, stands the villa of Domitian. The villa is a very interesting archaeological complex. It dates to the first century A.D. and extends over 4 hectares. Your tour guide will explain the thermal baths, the huge tanks and building resort. Very famous is the source of Lucullus. The source was known since Roman times. Always near the Lake of Paola, you can see the remains of a small medieval convent and the Sanctuary of Santa Maria della Sorresca, built by Benedictine monks in the sixth century. d C. Another leg of your itinerary will be the cave Guattari in the territory of Circeo. Here in 1939 was discovered the famous Neanderthal.
Rome Tour Guide
Terracina is situated in Agro pontino on the Tyrrhenian coast of the Gulf of Gaeta. It is easily accessible for those coming from Rome and Naples. The town is a popular tourist destination and seaside resort. It offers the visitor an immense artistic, cultural and natural. Do not forget the great food. The city is divided into Old Town High and Old Town Low. The first corresponds to the ancient city center with the acropolis. The second is the result of expansion occurred following the reclamation of the Pontine marshes by Mussolini. In Old Town High admire the ancient Forum Emiliano, center of the Roman city, the seat of the cathedral of San Cesareo. On the right side we see the building of the cathedral Venditti, of the thirteenth century. In the city center there is also the church of St. John, the castle of the Frangipani, Palazzo Braschi and the Episcopal Palace. Outside the city, on top of Mount Sant'Angelo, is the ancient sanctuary of Jupiter Anxur. Nearby there is the National Park of Circeo, located a few kilometers from the city. Terracina is an open-air museum. Our tour guides will accompany you from the extraordinary evidence of its history. The temple of Giove Anxur is one of the ideal destinations for lovers of archeology. The temple, also known as the Sanctuary of Mount Angel, was inspired by the great scenic Hellenistic architecture. It is one of the oldest shrines of ancient Rome Lazio. The archaeological site includes two temples, an oracle, a cryptoporticus and twelve arches visible from the plain and the sea. The guide will narrate the construction and the life that took place in the Temple in Roman times. The temple of Giove Anxur was home to a major military facility and later a monastery. From the temple you will enjoy an amazing view that goes from the promontory of Circeo to Punta di Gaeta. On a clear day you can see the volcanic Flegree islands. The temple is entered in the Regional Natural Park and Lake Ausoni Funds, which has an impressive heritage of Mediterranean flora and fauna.
Rome Tour Guide
Minturno is located in the province of Latina in the Lazio region. The town overlooks the Gulf of Gaeta. It was founded in 590 B.C. and surrounded by a wall with square and circular towers. There were three main gateways: "La Portella," "Santo Stefano" and "Porta Nova". Minturno offers its visitors the opportunity to admire many monuments and works of art. In the historical center of the village of Minturno, you can visit the beautiful square with the baronial castle and churches. The Baronial castle was built at the behest of Bishop Leo. In the thirteenth century it was the residence of the Caetani and hosted celebrities such as Thomas Aquinas. In the sixteenth century it belonged to one of the most beautiful women of Italy, Giulia Gonzaga. Today it belongs to the municipality. Among the notable churches are the Church of the Annunciation in the Gothic style, built around 1300 at the behest of the family Minutilli; the Church of St. Peter the Apostle, built between the ninth and twelfth centuries; and the Church of San Francesco, built by built in 1320, by Roffredo III Caetani. In the historic center were filmed many scenes in the film Toto the Third Man. Admirable is also the bridge Bourbon called "Hanging Bridge" built by order of Ferdinand II between 1828 and 1832. Nearby is the ancient Minturnae Roman times. It’s possible to organize guided tours in the archaeological area. Are visible the aqueduct, the theater, the hole with his, the walls and the amphitheater. Our tour guides will accompany you in the Archaeological Museum of Minturnae. If you love the sea, the town beach resorts are very well organized. Minturno offers wonderful walks along the promenade. If it's a nice day you can organize excursions in the Park of Gianola and Mount Scauri.
Rome Tour Guide
Fondi is a town in the province of Latina, in southern Lazio. It is close to Terracina and Sperlonga. The city is bordered by the mountain range Ausoni. The landscape consists of broad plains characterized by numerous rivers which descend from the mountains and go to feed the large lakes before emptying into the Tyrrhenian Sea. According to legend, the city was founded by Hercules after killing the giant Cacus. Cacus lived on the Aventine Hill in Rome and terrorizing its neighbors. Among its actions, there was also the theft of the herd of oxen of Hercules. The hero became very angry and began to look for the animals. The research proved very difficult because Cacus had dragged the oxen by the tail, so that the footsteps reversed would indicate the opposite direction. One of the beasts felt the lure of Hercules and bellowed. The hero was then able to find the cache and flush out the thief. Just the place where Hercules killed Cacus, lies the town of Fondi. Fondi was an important commercial center for the Greeks and the Etruscans. The city obtained the Roman citizenship in 338 BC and later became a Roman prefecture. In imperial times a part of its territory became part of the imperial property. Livia Drusilla, wife of the Emperor Augustus and mother of Tiberius, who was born in Fondi, possessed a lot of land here. The historic center of Fondi presents the classic Roman scheme to two orthogonal axes: decumano and cardo. It is enclosed in a square the circle of walls, large tracts of which are visible in opus polygonal and uncertain. The main decumano coincides with the urban stretch of the Appian Way. The forum is preserved by the current square of the Collegiate. Fondi is mentioned in ancient sources for the important wine Cecubo production . The most prestigious red wine from the Roman era, enhanced by Horace, Martial and Pliny the Elder.
Rome Tour Guide
Fossanuova, hamlet of Priverno, is a charming medieval village. The town is easily explored on foot, presents ancient buildings of local limestone. It is very nice. In its narrow streets you can breathe a particular atmosphere, almost mystical. The Cathedral, dedicated to the Assumption, was built at the end of the thirteenth century Gothic-Cistercian. The church was rebuilt in later periods. Not far off is the famous Abbey of Casamari. Of particular interest is Abbey Fossanuova. It was founded by Benedictine monks in the ninth century. It is a place of peace and serenity. The complex is mostly travertine. Perfect example of the first Italian Gothic style, the church has three naves feature on pillars, with a transept and choir rectangular. The interior has frescoes, according to the memento mori of the austere Cistercian monks. From the right of the church leads to the cloister, the refectory and the chapter room. All places rich in architectural elements of great charm. Died at the “home of the Abbot” St. Thomas Aquinas. On the altar of the cell, now converted into a chapel, there is a bas-relief depicting the saint's death. The cloister was built between 1280 and 1300 in Gothic style. Inside you will find a kiosk in a transitional style between Romanesque and Gothic. A Fossanuova is also the Medieval Museum, housed in the ancient Cistercian Forestiera. Exposes material from recent excavations in the area. Booking a guided tour to Fossanuova you can experience medieval life. A blast from the past. You will be charmed by this enchanting place. Do not miss, in August, the Medieval Festival. It is a beautiful reenactment of ancient traditions and dances of the period. There are also many local products. Recall mozzarella di bufala ricotta, caciotta first salt and meat, such as stews, sausages and hams.
Rome Tour Guide
Siena is located in central Tuscany in the middle of a vast hilly landscape. Siena offers its visitors an unforgettable experience. It's like taking a dip in the Middle Ages! The city is known worldwide for its immense historical, artistic and landscape, but especially for the famous Palio. The Palio of Siena dates back to 1644, when the territory of the city was divided into 17 districts. At the Palio race involving ten districts. The horse is assigned by lottery. The "Carriera" as it is traditionally called the race is usually held twice a year: July 2 there is the Palio of July in honor of the Madonna of Provenzano, and August 16, the Palio of Mid-August, in honor of Our Lady of the Assumption. On the occasion of exceptional events, the Sienese community may decide to conduct an extraordinary Palio between May and September. In 1995, the historic center of Siena has been honored by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Walking through the alleys and streets of the old town will know the most secret and fascinating aspects of this splendid city. There are many hidden corners, outside the usual tourist routes, which can be discovered and enjoyed. Siena is the capital of the Gothic. Most of its most famous monuments were built between 1200 and the first half of 1300. Gaze by booking a guided tour of the historic center of Siena. We offer several itineraries that touch on the most significant places in Siena. From the church of San Domenico, where the relics of St. Catherine, at Piazza del Campo, the heart of the city in the shape of a shell that seems to embrace the tourists. We will admire the magnificent Cathedral, and discover its exceptional treasures, including works by Donatello and Michelangelo. Following the route of the ancient Via Francigena, we will come to the Holy Historical Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena, the oldest bank in Europe. The religious itinerary of Siena you will also conduct in Casa-Santuario di Santa Caterina da Siena, in medieval Fonte Branda and in the splendid Gothic Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. With our guides you will have the opportunity to visit the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo, the Ancient hospital of Santa Maria della Scala, the Palazzo Pubblico, the Terzo di San Martino, with its picturesque medieval streets and its wonderful panoramic views over the green valley of Porta Giustizia. You will experience magical sunsets and romantic atmosphere in Siena by night. You can delight your palate by tasting the wines of Siena in the best wine bars in the city and pork sausages at breeders of the Sienese countryside.
Siena Tour Guide
According to legend, Siena was founded by Senio, one of them the son of Remus, brother of Romulus, the founder of Rome. It is said that Aschio and his brother Senio fled to Rome to escape his uncle Romulus, who wanted them dead. In the escape stole a wolf marble and took the wolf as a trophy in the place where they took refuge, and where Aschio founded the new city. The wolf is still the symbol of the city. Although previous news indicate the presence of an Etruscan community, tradition has it that Siena was founded in Roman times under the name of Julia Saena. The traces of the Etruscan settlement can be seen in the Archaeological Museum. Archaeological evidence suggests that the Etruscans were grouped in small settlements arranged in the territory of the future city. On the setting of the Etruscan was created a Roman military colony in the time of Augustus. The city was at the center of important trade routes and pilgrimage that led to Rome, in the south, and consequently to the Holy Land, the first of the famous Via Francigena. Siena in the following years became a small trading center. In the twelfth century, Siena became a city of bankers (Monte dei Paschi di Siena is the oldest bank in the world), popes (Pius II - Enea Silvio Piccolomini was part of the Sienese nobility) and saints (St. Catherine of Siena is the patroness of Italy). The war between the Guelphs and Ghibellines see Siena opposed Guelph Florence, which led to several clashes among them the battle of Montaperti. Still celebrated in the famous Palio. The events that led to the decline of the city, were the failure of the School of Buonsignori, the famine of 1326 and the severe outbreak of the Black Death in 1348. In 1555 Siena surrenders to Florence after three centuries of supremacy. Between 1799 and 1800, when the first French occupation, Siena became the protagonist of the motions antigiacobini Viva Maria. Siena took an active part in the wars of the Risorgimento. In 1859 he was the first city in Tuscany to vote in favor of annexation to the Kingdom of Italy.
Siena Tour Guide
We organize guided tours of the Cathedral of Siena. The visits are carried out on request throughout the year. The complex of the Cathedral of Siena is in Piazza Siena and includes a number of the most significant monuments in the European art scene. The Cathedral, with more than a million visitors each year, it is undoubtedly the fulcrum. It is one of the most important examples of Italian Romanesque-Gothic cathedral. According to tradition, the cathedral replaces an earlier church dedicated to Mary, erected around sec. IX, built on the site where he was offered a temple to Minerva. The building was consecrated in 1179, in the presence of the Sienese Pope Alexander III Bandinelli, which took place after the peace with Barbarossa. They are a crucial part of the complex even the Crypt, the Baptistery and the Museo dell'Opera placed in the same large mass consisting of the "Old Cathedral" and the "New Cathedral". Admire the treasures inside the cathedral, masterpieces by the greatest masters of all time. Recall Nicola Pisano, Donatello, Michelangelo, Pinturicchio, Beccafumi and Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Inside, the church has a wonderful floor inlaid with marble and semi-precious stones. You can see the whole floor just for 2 months a year. The rest of the time is partially covered to save it from degradation. Giorgio Vasari called the floor "... the most beautiful, grand and magnificent ... that had never been done," Come and discover the secrets that lie behind this extraordinary work! You will know the stories of the Old Testament prophecies of the Sibyls, allegories and their representations of Western culture. The floor of the cathedral is a "Bible for pictures" with 56 panels of inlaid marble and graffiti carried out between 1369 and 1547 at the hands of great artists such as Matteo di Giovanni and Domenico Beccafumi. On the left side of the floor there is the "Piccolomini Library". This is unique to the cycle of frescoes by Pinturicchio in the first decade of the sixteenth century. Beautiful is the thirteenth-century pulpit by Nicola Pisano with stories from the New Testament. During the path that winds around the museum complex of the Cathedral you will be taken inside of the right aisle of the New Cathedral. Here is the Museum of the Opera, one of the oldest established private museums in Italy. From here climbing 130 steps, you will be offered a beautiful view of the city.
Siena Tour Guide
The treasures of Siena are jealously guarded in its splendid palaces. For each type of route can be combined with a guided tour of one or more museums. The museums of Siena home to fine examples of painting and sculpture of the Romanesque, Gothic and pre-Renaissance. Not to be missed is the complex of the Cathedral of Siena: cathedral with the Piccolomini Library, the crypt with its frescoes of the thirteenth century, Baptistery, choral work of the fifteenth century by Jacopo della Quercia, Donatello and Ghiberti, the Museo dell' Opera with the precious stained glass window by Duccio and his superb majesty of 1311. Another must-visit is the museum complex of Santa Maria della Scala. It was one of the oldest hospitals in the world built along the Via Francigena to give assistance to the pilgrims who came to Rome. According to legend, was built by Sorore shoemaker who died in 898 AD. Beautiful frescoes in the Hall of the Pilgrims. The hospital was responsible for providing medical care and provide assistance to abandoned children called "foundlings." In the basement of the Santa Maria della Scala is the Oratory of Santa Caterina della Notte, where, according to tradition, St. Catherine went after witnessing the sick, to rest on a bed, visible through a window on the left wall. In the basement you can also visit the Archaeological Museum features a labyrinth of rooms and tunnels dug into the tuff. Very important is the visit of the Museo Civico. The museum is housed in the Palazzo Pubblico, a symbol of independence and wealth of Siena, one of the most important examples of Gothic civil architecture in the world. The Museo Civico exhibits masterpieces of the Sienese school. We remember the room of the Globe with the conquest of the castle of Giuncarico last work of Duccio di Buoninsegna (1315 - 1320), Majesty (1315-1321) and the Guidoriccio (1328 - 1329) by Simone Martini. There are inside the Chapel, the Consistory Hall and the Hall of Peace with images of Good and Bad Government by Ambrogio Lorenzetti where you can see the medieval town with its shops and its craftsmen. At the center of the Allegory of Good Government, a woman dressed in white lying on armor. It is the universal emblem of Peace chosen by UNESCO. Not to be missed is a visit to the majestic Torre del Mangia, which is the most famous part of the Palazzo Pubblico of Siena.
Siena Tour Guide
There are many things to see in Siena. The city has a very interesting stage for all types of travelers. Lovers of art and history, to those of music, nature lovers and sports to those of good food. Siena is also a city of saints and religious. The inhabitants of Siena have a special devotion to the Blessed Virgin and for two local saints, San Bernardino and Santa Caterina. The religious tours of Siena are among the most interesting. We propose the itinerary dedicated to St. Bernardine of Siena. Are inserted in the path places that have marked the life of the saint as the Church of St. Francis, where the saint took his vows, and the convent of the Observance, which he founded in 1404. The Church of St. Francis has a plant in T. It is characterized by a single large nave and a wooden roof. After the fire of 1600 the church was violently damaged, but some survivors of the Lorenzetti frescoes are still visible in the transept. In a chapel are preserved the sacred particles since 1730. Just outside the walls of the city stands the majestic convent of the Observance, linked to the figure of San Bernardino, founder of the Franciscan movement observant. Another very interesting itinerary is the one dedicated to St. Catherine of Siena. You will be driven in the Basilica of San Domenico. It is one of the most important churches of Siena and is located between the square of San Domenico and way della Sapienza . Built in the thirteenth century, was enlarged in the following century. The church houses the head of the saint and the chapel of the time has been the scene of some of his miracles. Other religious itinerary is dedicated to the Virgin Mary that takes tourists to places of Marian veneration in Siena. For centuries the center of Marian devotion in Siena is the cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, with the chapel of the Vow. Built in Romanesque-Gothic style Italian, is one of the most important churches built in this style in Italy.
Siena Tour Guide
Siena is the capital of the Gothic. You will discover the true essence of Gothic architecture and art of Siena visiting the museums and palaces of the city or taking a walk through the historic center. Siena is divided into three main areas called "Terzi": Terzo di Città, Terzo di Camollia and Terzo di San Martino. The Terzo di Città extends into the southwestern sector and includes Contradas: the Eagle, the Snail, Wave, Panther, the Forest and the Tortoise. Constitutes the highest and oldest of the city. In the fourteenth century it was still the third richest and most populous city, who was participating in the Palio with twice the number of participants. Legend has it that in 700 BC the sons of Remus, Aschio and Senio, fled from Rome after the murder of his father by his uncle Romulus. They arrived at the highest point of the hill and built a castle around which arose the city of Siena. In the Terzo di Città can admire the Cathedral, the church of Sant'Agostino, the Botanical Garden, the source of the Nuns, Porta San Marco, Palazzo Chigi Saracini where is the Chigi Academy and the wonderful museum of Santa Maria della Scala. The Terzo di Camollia extends into the northern sector of Siena and includes Contradas: the Caterpillar, Dragon, Giraffe, Porcupine, the Wolf and the Goose. It takes its name from Porta Camollia. In the thirteenth century it was occupied by the two most important mendicant orders, the Franciscans and the Dominicans, whose respective basilicas are today among the largest in the city. In the Terzo di Camollia you can admire Porta Camollia, the Chiesa di San Pietro alla Magione, the Medici Fortress, the Basilica of San Domenico, Fontebranda, the Sanctuary of Santa Caterina, Palazzo Tolomei, the Basilica of Santa Maria in Provenzano, the Basilica of San Francesco and Rocca Salimbeni, the headquarters of the bank Monte dei Paschi di Siena. The Terzo di San Martino extends into the southeastern sector and includes Contradas: the Owl, the Unicorn, the Shell, the Tower, Valdimontone. Developed around the Via Francigena, the road to strong transit of merchants and pilgrims. The name of this third comes from the fact that St. Martin is the patron saint of pilgrims and travelers. Within it are the Piazza del Campo, the Torre del Mangia and the Palazzo Publico, Fonte Gaia, Palazzo Piccolomini, the Lodges of the Pope, Porta Pispini giving access to the neighborhood that also contains the Basilica dei Servi, the Piazza del Mercato and Valle di Porta Giustizia.
Siena Tour Guide
At each corner of the city of Siena is possible to admire the beautiful fountains and elegant sources. A very particular itinerary is the one that leads visitors to discover the fountain of Siena. Not being situated on the banks of a river, the city has always had a special relationship with the water, which is considered a valuable asset. Siena had no natural water sources such complexes were built aqueducts and irrigation systems. The Sienese dug the "booties", underground aqueducts that collected seepage of rain water and brought to the fountains of the city. Under the Piazza del Campo, but not only that, it stretches a network of tunnels that you can visit. The most important fountains of Siena were built between the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries. Initially, the fountains, located at the entrance of the city, were water basins multi-function, protected by canopies to prevent water pollution. Each district has its own fountain bearing the symbol of that part of the city. These medieval fountains are usually composed of 3 bowls: the highest was reserved to the drinking water, the intermediate water to quench the thirst of the animals and the lowest was used to do the laundry. The districts were taking care of the maintenance of the water and on some occasions took charge of their construction. The route of the fountains of Siena will let you know the seven Public Fountains of Siena, perfectly preserved.
• Fontebranda is the oldest and most famous fountain in Siena. It dates back to the twelfth century and is mentioned in the Divine Comedy. The source is associated with St. Catherine of Siena, who grew up here and this is often called the "Holy Fontebranda."
• Fonte Gaia is the most important fountain of Siena. It is located in Piazza del Campo. It was sculpted by Jacopo della Quercia in the fifteenth century. It is one of the greatest masterpieces of sculpture of the Middle Ages.
• Fonte d’Ovile dating from the twelfth century.
• Fonte Nuova d’Ovile replaced Fonte d’Ovile. Built in the fourteenth century it was particularly used for agricultural purposes and craft.
• Fonte del Casato built in a secluded location so that many are unaware of its existence.
• Fonte di Follonica or the " Fontana maledetta " because of the many terrible events that took place in its vicinity and for its tendency to sink into the ground.
Fonte di Pescaia used to supply water to the fish tanks.
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The Palio is the largest and most important festival in the city of Siena. The Palio race is named after the prize: the Palio, from the Latin pallium (woolen cloak). This was generally a cloth of very fine cloth that was used for different purposes. In Siena, in general, was intended for the church of the district winner. The Palio is as old as Siena. In the golden age of the Republic of Siena, between the beginning of the thirteenth century and the middle of the fourteenth century, the Palio was the solemn and final time to celebrate the Assumption feast days in mid-August. The first Palio in the Piazza del Campo is the heir of horse racing that passed through Siena, ending in Piazza del Duomo. It dates back to 1633. Siena is divided into seventeen districts or areas of the city. Each district collides with the other during the Palio. Ten districts are selected for each race, each of them is assigned a horse, by drawing lots. The fitness tests and the assignment of horses occur 3 days before the Palio. They take place 6 test runs during which the jockey, chosen by the Contrada, get comfortable with the horse. The race consists of running three times around the Piazza del Campo by mounting the horse bareback. The ride takes less than two minutes but everyone wants to witness this great event. The "Carriera" as it is traditionally called the race is usually held twice a year: July 2 there is the Palio of July in honor of the Madonna of Provenzano, and August 16, the Palio of Mid-August, in honor of Our Lady of the Assumption. On the occasion of exceptional events, the Sienese community may decide to conduct an extraordinary Palio between May and September. You can watch the Palio race in Siena accessing payment to the stands arranged around the Piazza del Campo or windows and balconies that overlook it, or free from the inside of the square. The Palio race is preceded by a historical procession in which more than 600 people taking part in the representation of the 17 Contradas and institutions of the ancient Republic of Siena. The procession starts from the Piazza del Duomo and winds through some streets of the old town before taking off in the Piazza del Campo. The winning contrada celebrates for weeks, while the districts losers can only hope to win the next race with more preparation and luck.
Siena Tour Guide
Siena food Tour
During your stay in Siena not give up the simple but tasty cuisine of Siena. It is said that when Catherine de Medici married the future King of France, King Henry of Orleans, wanted to bring to the court of France, only cooks of Siena. Siena has always produced excellent products. The unspoiled area offers venison, vegetables and herbs. Big specialties are meats: sopressata, salami, sausages and pork sausages boar. The classic appetizer along with meats, which characterize the table Siena, are the toast of the spleen: slices of toasted bread soaked in broth, covered with a compound made from calf spleen cooked on a bed of fried onions and anchovies , capers, pepper and a drizzle of good extra virgin olive oil. Basic cuisine of Siena are also the bread-based dishes, soups, beans, onions and mushrooms, the traditional "pici", the ancestors of modern Etruscan spaghetti, topped with meat sauce or mushrooms, and many varieties of wild , and of course the steak, which is used for high-quality beef produced from a race, Chianina, which after a period of crisis is finding a significant recovery in the markets. If you want to try another dish that sums up the culinary identity of Siena try the cut of beef, usually a steak cooked rare to match with porcini mushrooms and roasted potatoes, a kind of tender flesh with a delicate flavor ideal to be accompanied by a good red wine. The hills around Siena offer two main landscapes: olive trees and vines. By screws born 5 DOCG and 12 DOC wines. Brunello di Montalcino is the absolute master. Chianti is the most famous but are no less Nobile di Montepulciano. Among whites remember Vernaccia di San Gimigano while the king of the end of the meal is the Vin Santo. Siena is renowned especially for sweets. Among these are: the Panforte, made with almond paste, nutmeg, marzipan and cedar; Ricciarelli, who arrived from the East at the time of the Crusades; the Cantucci very often paired with Vin Santo
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The Via Francigena is part of a bundle of routes, also called Romee streets, which led from central Europe, especially from France, to Rome. The origin of the Via Francigena is closely linked to the Lombard King Rothari who needed a road system to control the northern part of the Italian peninsula. It was Sigerico, archbishop of Canterbury, who described it in 990 on his return from his pilgrimage to Rome in the famous "Itinerarium". The Via Francigena connecting Canterbury to Rome. However, it was with the great Jubilee launched in 1300 by Pope Boniface VIII who became the Francigena way peregrinalis for excellence. The axis linking the major places of pilgrimage of Christianity: Rome, Jerusalem and Santiago de Compostela. The stretch of the Via Francigena, which crosses the province of Siena is one of the most evocative. The Via Francigena passes of churches, abbeys, castles and medieval towns to be rediscovered. The Via Francigena connects the medieval villages, such as San Gimignano, Poggibonsi, Colle Val d'Elsa, Monteriggioni, Siena and Bagno Vignoni. Along the way we also find evidence of the Knights Templar that guaranteed the safety of the pilgrims. Following the path of ancient Via Francigena, as pilgrims and travelers of ancient times, in the company of an experienced guide, you will spend an unforgettable day. We'll go to Porta Camollia spotting the Torre del Mangia that will guide us along the route of the Via Francigena around the walls. We can walk on the walls mentioned by Dante Alighieri in the Divine Comedy. We will pass in front of the Santa Maria della Scala, the oldest hospital in Europe built along the Via Francigena to give assistance to the pilgrims who came to Rome. According to legend, was built by Sorore shoemaker who died in 898 AD. The hospital provided medical care and assistance to abandoned children called "foundlings." The path continues up to the Porta Romana, which concludes the section of the Via Francigena in the city.
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Certaldo is a unique Tuscan village, 40 km from Siena. Fief of the Counts Alberti and then Vicariate of Florence has a typical medieval appearance. Arriving at the village you will find a wonderful example of a medieval village with red brick and terracotta flooring. The historic center of Certaldo still well preserved offers many artistic and historical. Certaldo Alta is the home of Giovanni Boccaccio, famous author of the Decameron. Visit the picturesque birthplace of Boccaccio. It is a unique city museum that preserves intact its medieval appearance. Do not miss the entrance to Casa del Boccaccio, where the artist lived the last years of his life, and now the seat of the National Giovanni Boccaccio. It overlooks the main street of the village, Via Boccaccio. It is the seat of an important library that contains documents of the sixteenth, seventeenth and eighteenth centuries and the study center on Boccaccio. Beautiful is the Palazzo dei Vicari with the tabernacle of the Executed by Benozzo Gozzoli. The building is strategically located at the intersection of Via Del Boccaccio e Via Revellino. It was the former residence of the Counts Alberti. The facade of the building is full of crests and plaques. Each of them represents the arms of the family that owned the Vicar. On the right you can see the clock tower place in 1484. Of particular interest is the church of SS. Jacopo and Filippo with frescoes and ceramics from the fifteenth century. Built in the thirteenth century houses inside the remains of Blessed Giulia Della Rena and of Boccaccio. In the square outside there is access to the Museo di Arte Sacra della Propositura di Certaldo, surprisingly rich in works of art. Here it is exposed to the Christ Petrognano, a wooden crucifix of the twelfth century. Given the proximity of the sites, all located in Val d'Elsa, you can combine a visit to San Gimignano, Colle Val d'Elsa, or, with the ability to make a stop in Monteriggioni.
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Colle Val D'Elsa: City of the crystal
Colle Val D'Elsa is an Italian town in the province of Siena in Tuscany. It occupies a strategic position, near the cities of Florence, Siena and Volterra. It lies on the route of ancient Via Francigena. It was formerly divided into three parts: il Borgo di Santa Caterina, il Castello di Piticciano e il Piano. Today the village is divided into "Colle Alto" and "Colle Basso". The city was mentioned for the first time in the tenth century. In the twelfth century acquires autonomy and identity politics. It was long disputed between Florence and Siena. Fell under the dominion of Siena in the middle of the fourteenth century when its economic power was at its height. Colle Val D' Elsa is famous for being the birthplace of Arnolfo di Cambio, sculptor, architect and urban planner Italian active in Rome and Florence at the end of the thirteenth century. He is dedicated to the main square of Colle Val D' Elsa. Do not miss to visit the ancient house-tower of Arnolfo di Cambio. The entrance is from Via del Castello in front of the Torre dei Pasci. The Cathedral of Saints Albert and Martial is the main place of Catholic worship in Colle Val D'Elsa. One of the most striking monuments of Colle Val d'Elsa is the Palazzo Campana. Facing onto the bridge is an excellent example of mannerist architecture of the sixteenth century Tuscany. Also interesting is the Palazzo del Comune dei Priori, dating from the thirteenth or fourteenth century. The building houses the Museo Civico and sacred art, which is accessed by a staircase side. Today the town is famous for the production of crystal. Dates back to 1820 the first crystal factory, led by the French Mathis. It is possible to organize guided tours of the Museum of Glass. The museum, opened in 2001, illustrates the history of glass production. They exposed the ancient machinery, tools, prints and signed pieces by designers and artists. It is possible to visit a workshop production of the crystal. A further attraction is the Museo Archeologico Ranuccio Bianchi Bandinelli.
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San Galgano and the sword in the stone
The Abbey of San Galgano is situated in Chiusino, about 30 km from Siena between two important roads: the "Massetana" that connects Siena with the sea and the ancient road "Maremma" that combines the heart of Tuscany with Grosseto. The Abbey of San Galgano has represented over the centuries a very important point of reference for travelers and pilgrims. It is famous worldwide for its roofless church, in the Gothic style. The history of this area dates back to the twelfth century. It is said that Galgano, a young noble of the place, a lover of adventure and the good life, dreamed the Archangel Michael, who converted him. As a sign of renunciation of the past life, Galgano thrust his sword into a rock. He loved to the hilt as the cross of Christ. It is also said that the devil, trying to dismantle the strong faith, he sent three men to destroy the rock not succeeding, the sword broke into three pieces. Galgano, sorrowful, and began to pray trying to reassemble the weapon, miraculously, the sword regained her composure. The San Galgano Abbey was founded by Cistercian monks in 1218 to accommodate the numerous pilgrims who flocked to the nearby hermitage of Montesiepi. The great church, 72 meters long and 21 wide, in Cistercian Gothic style, was completed in 1262. In the fourteenth century the abbey enjoyed great power and glory, thanks to the privileges granted by various emperors and popes, including Federico II and Pope Innocent III. In 500 began the decline. The property remained in complete abandon and became the quarry of stones and columns for the construction of homes in the area. Thanks to the efficient maintenance and restoration works of the nineteenth century can still be seen today. A few hundred meters on a hill, stands the hermitage of Montesiepi where is kept the "Sword in the Stone". The hermitage has a circular shape reminiscent of the Roman mausoleums. On the outside walls alternate with bands of white stone and brick. The parallels with the story of King Arthur , the knights of the Round Table and the quest for the Grail are many stories that surround San Galgano.
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Buonconvento is a village in the province of Siena in Tuscany. The name comes from the Latin "Bonus Conventus" happy place, lucky. Buonconvento has been named one of the most Beautiful Villages of Italy. You can arrange guided tours of the historic center of Buonconvento closed by medieval walls and features of Art Nouveau decor. Buonconvento has remained untouched for centuries. The construction of the wall began in 1371 and ended in 1383 on the orders of Governor of Siena. The city wall was fitted originally only two entrances along the main street of the town: Porta Senese on the north side, towards Siena, which still has the original wooden doors with ironwork, and Porta Romana, to the south, destroyed in 1944 by the retreating Germans. In medieval times Buonconvento was hospitalization of pilgrims and place of death of Henry VII of Luxembourg, Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire. It is said that the Emperor, was poisoned by a monk during communion, he died shortly afterwards along the Via Cassia, probably near the town of Serravalle. Another legend tells that both Henry VII died in 1313 at the Church of St. Peter and Paul. A small marble stone, on the left side of the facade, carved with a cross, bears the date 1103, which could correspond to the year of its foundation. Inside there are some colorful work of the Sienese school, including a painted panel depicting the Madonna and Child by Matteo di Giovanni of the fifteenth century; a panel painted by Pietro Di Francesco Orioli of the fifteenth century; a fresco by Sano di Pietro of the fifteenth century, depicting the coronation of the Virgin. With the fall of the Republic of Siena in 1559 Buonconvento becomes part of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany under the Medici. The city of Buonconvento houses three very important museums in the area. We recommend visiting the Museo della Mezzadria, il Museo di Arte Sacra della Val d'Arbia, which displays many works by major artists of the pictorial tradition of Siena as Duccio, Pietro Lorenzetti, Andrea di Bartolo, Matteo di Giovanni, Alessandro Casolani, Simondio Salimben. Do not miss is the Oratorio della Confraternita della Misericordia.
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Pienza is a small village in the province of Siena. It is the most renowned of all the Val d'Orcia. The historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. The city is linked to the Piccolomini family. Here was born Enea Silvio Piccolomini, who became Pope Pius II in 1458. He to mark the place where he was born during the exile of his family, transformed Pienza into one of the most beautiful cities of the Renaissance. You enter the old town by the Porta al Prato. Passing the church of San Francesco, which houses frescoes by Cristoforo di Meo and Bindoccio Piero, you reach the main draw of Pienza: the Piazza Pio II. Here you can admire the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the Town hall and the palace of the Piccolomini family. The palace was the summer residence of Enea Silvio Piccolomini and is one of the first examples of Renaissance architecture. It was built in 1459 by architect Bernardo Rossellini. The Piccolomini family lived here until 1962. From the porch on the back side you can enjoy an amazing view of the Val d'Orcia and Mount Amiata. On the ground floor of the building is placed in this landscape a garden square surrounded by walls with a central pit. It is the first roof garden of the Renaissance. The garden was a place of contemplation and meditation in the perfect fusion of man and nature typical of the humanities. Through alleys and streets you get to a vantage point from which you can admire a beautiful landscape to Monte Amiata. Pienza is among the cities decorated for Valor for the War of Liberation for the sacrifices of its people and its activities in the partisan struggle during the Second World War. The Hermitage is a complex of rooms carved in the sandstone by hermit monks and is located near Pienza. Curious, in a cave, is the sculpture of a Madonna with six fingers. For lovers of good food Pienza is famous for its cheese, much appreciated by Pope Pius II. Its flavor is so special due to the special herbs that the sheep graze in the valley.
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Montepulciano is a town of Etruscan origins in the province of Siena. It stands on the "Mons Politianus" overlooking the Val d'Orcia and Val di Chiana. You can book tours at this quaint medieval village. The fatigue of walking uphill will be greatly rewarded. Montepulciano surprises with unexpected panoramas on the streets, with its shops and its hidden nooks. In the lower part of the city you can admire the Temple of San Biagio, Renaissance jewel by Antonio da Sangallo il Vecchio. The heart of Montepulciano is the main square, Piazza Grande, the highest point of the hill. Etruscan times the square was the site of the acropolis. Crossing the two input ports to the medieval village you can reach the square with the Cathedral, the Town Hall, Palazzo Nobili Tarugi and the Palazzo Dal Monte Contucci. The cathedral contains works of art of inestimable value as the altar of the Lilies by Andrea Della Robbia, the triptych of the Assumption of Taddeo di Bartolo and the sweet Virgin of the Pillar of Sano di Pietro. The Town Hall is intended as a tribute to the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence. In the square there is also the beautiful Well of Griffins and the Lions. From Piazza Grande is possible to reach the fourteenth century church of Santa Maria dei Servi to admire the Virgin of Savory. Admiring the church of Sant'Agostino excellent work of Michelozzo, the church of San Francesco and the church of Saint Lucia arrive at Palazzo Bucelli, incredible Etruscan museum in the open air. Leaving the mighty Porta al Prato reinforced by Antonio da Sangallo il Vecchio will see the Romanesque church of St. Agnes. From Porta al Prato you get to the garden Poggiofanti. In many wineries is aged a remarkable red wine, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG, whose origins date back to the fourteenth century. Do not miss a good glass of Vino Nobile.
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Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is red wine DOCG or a Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin. It is ranked among the most prestigious wines in Italy and in the world. It is produced in Montepulciano, a beautiful town in the province of Siena. The history of Montepulciano has always been intimately linked to the fame of its vineyards and its wine. From its origins in the city blends with the wine its history. Important is the discovery in 1868 in an Etruscan tomb of a kylix, or a cup of wine, red-figure production Chiusi. On the cup is represented Flufluns, the Etruscan Bacchus the god of wine, playing along with a maenad to cottabo, a game in which the wine was the protagonist. The ancient sources tell us that the Gauls took to Italy, attracted by its wine produced in Montepulciano. The oldest document referring to the wine of Montepulciano dates back to 789, when the cleric Arnipert offering to the church of San Silvestro in Lanciniano, on a piece of land with vineyards placed in the castle of Policiano. It is 'documented since the Middle Ages that the vineyards of Mons Pulitianus producing excellent wines. In his work, Bacchus in Tuscany (1685) from Arezzo Francesco Redi wrote "Montepulciano of every wine is king". You can book tours at this quaint medieval village and savor fine wine in the numerous cellars dug into the rock. The cellars are home to visit the precious oak barrels in which "rests" Vino Nobile. Examples of historic wineries are visited wineries Contuccis, Gattavecchi, Fanetti, Chick, Crociani, Cantina del Redi. Il Vino Nobile di Montepulciano should not be confused with Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC, which is a wine of Abruzzo. The Noble wine is ruby red in color with orange highlights aging. Delicate, intense and pronounced. The flavor is dry and bitter. Wine served with roasted red meats and poultry.
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Sant 'Antimo is a lovely place where nature, architecture and history intertwine and merge. It is located in Castelnuovo dell’ Abate, in the town of Montalcino, in the province of Siena. The Abbey of St. Antimo is one of the most significant architectural remains of the Romanesque period. The monastery is now the seat of the Premonstratensian Canons Regular. It is an imposing monastic building dating back to the early twelfth century set in a beautiful natural landscape dominated by olive groves. According to tradition, the abbey was founded by Carlo Magno. He after a pilgrimage to Rome received a gift from Pope Adrian I some relics of Saints Sebastian and Antimo. During the return journey a violent epidemic broke out, and to thank the Lord when the plague ended, founded the monastery upon which was built the Abbey. The first document dates back some 814 at the time of his son Louis the Pious. After years of neglect, the Abbey of St. Antimo has risen in 1992 thanks to the small community of Canons Regular Premonstratensian who follow the Rule of St. Augustine. The monks provide a day seven masses sung in Gregorian chant as a thousand years ago. The Abbey of St. Antimo is open all day. It is permitted to visit from 10.30 to 12.30 and from 15.00 to 18.30. During the visits functions are suspended. The church is oriented towards the East, continues in the south side with a cloister around the four sides of which runs a gallery. In the east wing of the cloister are followed sacristy, the treasure, the chapter house, the staircase leading to the upper floor and the desk. Upstairs there is the monks' dormitory. South wing is placed the refectory. In the vicinity of the abbey are the premises for guests or pilgrims, hospital, laundry, bakery and several rooms for the work of the monks.
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The Chiantigiana is one of the most beautiful roads in Italy. As the name suggests, it crosses the Chianti from Florence to Siena. From Florence, passing through Greve in Chianti, Panzano and Castellina then to Radda in Chianti, Gaiole and finally Siena. Carry on, booking with us the tour of the Chiantigiana is a great way to discover the Chianti area. The route offers beautiful scenery made of hills, vineyards, olive groves, villages, castles and great houses producing the famous Chianti wine. You will meet important wineries where you can taste and buy wine DOCG most famous in the world. The first step to do is to Greve in Chianti. The country is the heart of the production area of Chianti Classico and every year hosts "September Greve", shows the famous wine market with stands, folk songs and dances. Continuing on the Chiantigiana meet Panzano where guests can visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, la Pieve di San Leolino e l’Oratorio di Sant’Eufrosino. Continuing, we arrive in Castellina in Chianti. The village was repeatedly contested between Siena and Florence, as evidenced by the ancient medieval fortress. Walking through the narrow streets of this country you have the feeling of being in the heart of Tuscany. Here in 1924 was born the Chianti Classico Consortium which since 1984 has the mark of Denomination of Origin Controlled and Guaranteed DOCG. Definitely worth a visit to the Museo Archeologico del Chianti Senese, which traces the ancient history of this area and preserves the remains of Motecalvario. In Castellina you can enjoy the art of charcuterie Chianti. From here we are 10 minutes in Radda in Chianti. The country retains its original medieval appearance with the ancient walls that still protect the historic center. The Palazzo del Podesta dominates, together with the Chiesa di S. Niccolò of Romanesque origin, the center of the village. On the outskirts of the village there is the old Franciscan convent of Santa Maria in Prato. Not far from Radda, there is Gaiole in Chianti, of medieval origin. Here you can stay in the many farms, wineries and farms that offer their products.
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The truffle, belonging to the genus Tuber, is a highly prized food, very expensive. The typical penetrating aroma develops only after curing and is designed to attract wild animals, despite the coverage of the earth, to spread the spores contained and perpetuate the species. In nature there are four species of truffle. The most valuable is the white truffle, also known as truffle, characterized by a sharp odor and a high digestibility so that it is generally eaten raw. It is the only one that can weigh a pound. In second place is the black truffle. This species is not abundant in Tuscany as in other regions of central Italy. The other species are valued at the local level because of the taste and lower price. They are the truffle marzuolo or whitebait and summer truffle or scorzone. The truffle is located in the province of Siena, but the most famous is that of the Crete Senesi. This is a hilly area with few woods that revolves around the ancient medieval village of San Giovanni d'Asso, real capital of the truffle. The "borghetto" gathered around a castle which dominates the valley of the river Ace is known for its precious truffles. In San Giovanni d'Asso are held fairs and operates the Cooperative truffle of the Crete Senesi. In the dungeons of the Castle of the country, there is a small but original Truffle Museum, the first in Italy. The visitor is asked to recognize the tuber with a simple set-up, but also with the sense of touch, hearing and smell. Every year a festival is held in the country aimed at all lovers of the precious tuber. You can taste, learn and even participate actively in research in the area of the truffle Mabbione. Book a guided tour in San Giovanni d'Asso favorite land of truffles, where their collection has a long tradition.
Siena Tour Guide
San Gimignano is located in the province of Siena in Tuscany. It is famous for the 14 soaring towers that characterize the country. The historic center of San Gimignano, UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1990, has preserved the characteristics of a medieval city almost perfectly. The legend says that in 63 BC two brothers Silvio and Muzio, young nobles fled from Rome because accomplices of Catiline, sought refuge in Val d'Elsa and built two castles: to Mucchio and to Silvia, San Gimignano future. The first historical document attesting to the city's name dates back to 929 when Hugh of Provence gives the bishop of Volterra, the mountain called the Tower "prope Sancto Geminianus adiacente." It is likely that the name San Gimignano derives from the name of the Bishop of Modena. It is said that the saint during the barbarian invasions saved the city from the threat of Totila, miraculously appearing on the walls. From small rural villages of Etruscan and then Roman, ran in the Middle Ages to the formation of the oldest part of the historic center of San Gimignano. In 998 it was still a village at the turn of the Via Francigena, a fief of the Bishop of Volterra, who lived in a castle located on the Tower hill. The development of San Gimignano occurred mainly in the first three centuries after the Mille when the Via Francigena became frequented by pilgrims from France on their way to Rome. Just in San Gimignano was grafted diversion to the port of Pisa. The city, bounded by the first wall, became one of the main places of transit and parking for all travelers. Book your guided tour in San Gimignano. The trail leads from the Porta San Giovanni to Porta San Matteo. Our tour guides will take you to Piazza della Cisterna and the beautiful Piazza della Collegiata with Palazzi del Podestà and the torri dei Salvucci. Climbing the Torre Grossa (54 m.) you will enjoy a splendid view of the surrounding hills. Do not miss the church of Sant'Agostino with frescoes by Benozzo Gozzoli. If you love wine, you can conclude your visit to a farm where you can taste excellent Vernaccia di San Gimignano.
Siena Tour Guide
Volterra is a perfectly preserved medieval town famous for its alabaster. It is part of the Mountain Community of the Val di Cecina. The unspoilt countryside stretching to the sea. It is located in the heart of Tuscany, 70 km from Florence, 47 km from Siena and 63 km from Pisa. The guided tour will take you to admire the historic center of Volterra, surrounded almost entirely within the confines of the thirteenth century. The town has Etruscan origins. The name of the Etruscan Volterra was Velathri. In Roman times, the city took the name of Volaterrae, from which derives the current. It was one of the twelve major cities of the Etruscan League. The city was known for its alabaster. Even today you can admire the Etruscan urns in the Museo Etrusco. Volterra was conquered by the Romans in 260 BC, became part of the Italian confederation. In 90 BC. with the Lex Julia de Civitate, Volterra obtained Roman citizenship and was enrolled in the tribe Sabatini. The city has an extraordinary archaeological heritage. We recall the Museo Etrusco Guarnacci, il Teatro e le Terme romane di Vallebuona, l’Acropoli e l’imponente Porta all’Arco (IV century BC), la necropoli del Portone and the remains of Etruscan walls that overlook the spectacular voragine delle Balze near the church of San Giusto. The guided tour will range Etruscan antiquity to the modern age and will introduce you to the most important monuments related to various eras. Our tour guides will take you to Piazza dei Priori with the medieval Palazzo dei Priori, the Podesta's Palace and Torre del Porcellino. It is included in the itinerary a visit to the Cathedral, the Baptistery and the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo. Not to be missed are: the medieval towers dell'Incrociata Buonparenti, the church of St Francis and Port St Francis, the sources of Porta San Felice, the Renaissance Palazzo Minucci Solaini seat of the Civic Art Gallery; Palazzo Viti-Incontri, a beautiful sixteenth century mansion which preserves décor and furniture of the eighteenth, nineteenth and twentieth century, the casa-Torre Toscano, the Fonti di Docciòla, the Parco E. Fiumi and the Fortezza Medicea.
Pisa is a must-see on any trip to Tuscany. Here Galileo Galilei began his long battle for a new science. The scientist was born in Pisa. He spent his childhood in the district of San Francisco and the district of Santa Maria. Galileo from University of Pisa Galileo will receive his first assignment as a professor of mathematics letters. The city is famous worldwide for its Leaning Tower and its beautiful Piazza dei Miracoli. Struck by the beauty of the Cathedral, the Baptistery, the Monumental Cemetery and the Bell Tower of Pisa, Gabriele D'Annunzio dubbed the Piazza del Duomo of Pisa in the "Field of Miracles". With our tour guide will know the squares and the most important monuments of Pisa. The Cathedral, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. Inside you can admire the pulpit by Giovanni Pisano, the St. John the Evangelist by Cimabue, the tomb of Henry VII of Tino Camaino, the mosaics of the Traini, the Saint Agnes of Andrea del Sarto, the quadroni of the Cathedral and the works that decorate the rich tribune of the Duomo. The Baptistery of San Giovanni with its wonderful echo. Notable here are the pulpit by Nicola Pisano and the baptismal font of fine workmanship. The Tour guide will accompany you in the Monumental Cemetery for the great cycle of frescoes represented the true destination for many travelers to Pisa, so that the city became a stop on the Grand Tour of Italy. In addition to the most famous monuments Pisa offers lesser known wonders as the historical center. Here we find the Renaissance Piazza dei Cavalieri which houses the Scuola Normale Superiore, College of world-renowned; the Borgo Stretto characterized by austere tower houses and elegant arcades. Do not miss the Lungano overlooked by the elegant facades of Renaissance palaces. Do not forget Piazza Dante where was born the Studio Pisano. Beautiful are the surroundings of Pisa. About 5 minutes from Piazza dei Miracoli is the Parco di San Rossore, one of the last and best preserved examples of forest and Mediterranean scrub. From the town, along a beautiful tree-lined avenue that runs along the Arno river, you arrive in Pieve di S. Piero a Grado. St. Peter would have landed here, coming from Palestine, and would have celebrated the first Mass in Italian territory. A few miles away is the town of Marina di Pisa, charm a bit '"retro", with its art nouveau buildings.
Chiusi Tour
Chiusi is one of the landmarks in the province of Siena and beyond. The city had its heyday between the seventh and fifth centuries BC, under the legendary Etruscan king Porsena who challenged the powerful Rome. Archaeologists are searching for his tomb that according to the ancient sources would host a hen and chicks thousand gold. In Roman times Chiusi was called Clusium. The town was superimposed on the Etruscan walls and maintaining the roads. Locked lost its importance in the Middle Ages. It became part of the Republic of Siena, then the Medici state, revived in the nineteenth century, at the time of the great archaeological discoveries. Today you can admire several archaeological monuments that testify to its wealth and its important role within the twelve Etruscan cities. The National Etruscan Museum houses a number of artifacts that testify to the city's development from prehistoric times up to the Lombards. Do not miss a visit to the Underground Museum, opened in 2005, also offers a unique epigraphic collection consists of more than 300 urns placed in evocative underground. The Museum of the Cathedral in Piazza Duomo, contains ancient reliefs, sarcophagi, the art gallery and a rich set of Renaissance choral parchment, from the Abbey of Monte Oliveto Major. From here there is access to an extensive network of underground tunnels called Labyrinth of Porsena. The legend identifies it as the secret path to access the magnificent tomb of the Etruscan king Porsena. The cathedral of Chiusi, the Co-Cathedral of St. Secondiano, lies on the ruins of a Roman pool dating to the first century BC. The church is characterized by its bell tower block, built in 1585, transforming a defense tower. Beautiful is the Etruscan tomb of the Pilgrim which is located outside the town. You can also visit the early Christian catacombs of St. Catherine and St. Mustiola testimony of the importance of Chiusi in Roman times. A must-visit is the lake of Chiusi, site of considerable interest flora and fauna.
Ponte Vecchio is an exceptional artistic architectural work! It is the symbol of the city of Florence and one of the most famous bridges in the world. Over the Ponte Vecchio you can see the beautiful Vasari Corridor. This corridor, built in 1565 by Giorgio Vasari, passing over the shops of goldsmiths who are currently on the sides of the bridge. The guided tour duriong the walking tour of Ponte Vecchio will be a unique experience! The bridge crosses the River Arno at its narrowest. It was built near a crossing of the Roman period and until 1218 it was the only bridge crossing the River Arno in Florence. Repeatedly ruined by the floods including that of 1117. In 1170 it was rebuilt five stone arches. Ponte Vecchio was not able to resist the terrible and tragic floods of November 4, 1333. The bridge, as we see it today was built in 1345 by Taddeo Gaddi and Neri Fioravanti. Beautiful are the two arched arcades. On the sides of the bridge were located less than 43 shops. At the time of Cosimo de Medici had his shop on the Ponte Vecchio 3 butchers, 3 grocers, 5 shoemakers, 2 carpenters, 2 biadaioli, 1 haberdasher and a dozen vendors from different genres. With the Grand Duke Ferdinand I the shops were replaced by workshops of goldsmiths, silversmiths and jewelers. The Ponte Vecchio thus began to be frequented by gentlemen and strangers. Began to have the actual look towards 1700, when the stores began to be embellished with the addition of windows, mirrors, decorations. Beautiful is the square which interrupts the shops in the middle of the bridge. During the Second World War, German troops destroyed all the bridges in Florence, except the Ponte Vecchio. On November 4, 1966, the Ponte Vecchio miraculously endured the huge wave of water from the Arno in flood, which broke its banks causing the flood of Florence.
Uffizi
The Uffizi Gallery in Florence is one of the most famous museums in the world. It boasts impressive collections of paintings, ancient statues and art masterpieces of all time. The guided tour of the Uffizi will allow you to admire the masterpieces of inestimable value. Recall the famous "Madonna on the throne" by Giotto, the "Battle of San Romano" by Paolo Uccello, Piero della Francesca's diptych "Federico da Montefeltro," "The Birth of Venus" by Botticelli. You will be impressed by the works of Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raffaello, Tiziano and Caravaggio. Also important are the collections of German, Dutch and Flemish. Among them: Dürer, Rembrandt and Rubens. The Uffizi Gallery is also home to: the Collection Contini Bonacossi and the Gabinetto dei Disegni e delle Stampe. Noteworthy is the Vasari Corridor, a suspended corridor built by Vasari in 1565, the building connects the Uffizi with the Palazzo Vecchio and Palazzo Pitti. The building of Uffizi was begun by Giorgio Vasari in 1560 for Cosimo I de' Medici so as to accommodate the offices of the Florentine magistrates, hence the name Uffizi, "offices". The construction was later continued by Alfonso Parigi and Bernardo Buontalenti and completed in 1581.Subsequently, the Uffizi was transformed into a private gallery for the pleasure of the ruling family of Florence and their guests. The Medici family, particularly Ferdinand II and his wife Vittoria della Rovere, collected here rare and precious objects, paintings, statues, jewelry, scientific instruments and weapons. The Gallery was rearranged and enlarged by the Lorraine Grand-dukes, who succeeded the Medici, and finally by the Italian State. In 1865, the Uffizi Gallery became a museum and today consist of 50 rooms housing paintings from the thirteenth to the eighteenth century. The paintings are exhibited according to a chronological division, so that you can fully appreciate all the evolutions of art through the centuries.
Corridoio Vasariano
The Vasari Corridor or Corridoio Vasariano, is an elevated enclosed passageway in Florence. The Vasari Corridor is part of the Uffizi Gallery. The Vasari Corridor connects the Palazzo Vecchio with the Pitti Palace passing by the Uffizi Gallery. It is a raised path along more than a kilometer above the Ponte Vecchio. The passage is very narrow. It can be visited by appointment only for the sake of protection of works of art. Inside exposes the largest and most important collection in the world of self-portraits, initiated by the Cardinal Leopoldo de 'Medici in the seventeenth century. Also exhibits paintings of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. Do not miss the guided tour of the Vasari Corridor. You walked into a quiet and almost surreal ambient. You will enjoy lovely views over the Arno River in the direction of the Ponte Santa Trinità. The tour guides will accompany you in the gallery, passing over the Ponte Vecchio, until you get to the Palazzo Pitti. The Corridoio Vasariano was the pride of the Medici family. It was built in 1565 for the Grand Duke Cosimo I on the occasion of the marriage of his son Francesco with Giovanna d'Austria. The work lasted only five months, and was directed by the famous architect Giorgio Vasari. The corridor allowed the grand dukes, to move from their private residence at the palace of the government, without the need of an escort. The corridor passes over the portico of the church of Santa Felicita and with a balcony, protected by a heavy gate, is located directly inside the church. Therefore allowed the Medici family to attend mass without mixing with the people. The meat market that took place on the Ponte Vecchio was moved to avoid unpleasant odors to the passage of the Grand Duke and in its place were placed workshops of goldsmiths and jewelers that even today we can see. Paisà, Rossellini's film, shows how the transition to the Vasari Corridor at the end of the Second World War was the only crossing point north-south of the city of Florence.
Galleria dell’Accademia
The Galleria dell'Accademia di Firenze, or "Gallery of the Academy of Florence", is famous all over the world. After the Uffizi, is the second most visited museum in Italy. It is located in Via Ricasoli and is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 8.15 to 18.50 hours. It is famous for the presence of some very important sculptures by Michelangelo: the Prisoners, the St. Matthew and in particular the famous David, moved here in 1873 after having subtracted from the original location in Piazza della Signoria. The original intention was to create a 'Michelangelo museum', with original sculptures and drawings, to celebrate the fourth centenary of the artist's birth. The architect Emilio De Fabris was commissioned to build a new grandstand spectacularly placed at the end of the Antique Paintings Gallery. On 22 July 1882 the Galleria dell'Accademia di Firenze was finally inaugurated. The gallery is also home to other sections: the largest and most important collection of paintings in the world with a gold background, and the Musical Instrument Museum, which displays many artifacts from the collection of the historical Conservatorio Luigi Cherubini. You can book your guided visit to the Galleria dell'Accademia di Firenze. The path will lead you in the Hall of the Colossus hosting the preparatory model of Giambologna's Rape of the Sabine Women. You will be impressed by the paintings of Perugino, Filippino Lippi, Pontormo, Bronzino and Domenico Ghirlandaio. On the right stands the Cassone Addimari that plays a wedding procession that takes place between the streets and monuments of the center of Florence, where he is recognizable the Baptistery. To the left of Cassone Addimari there is the Madonna del Mare of Botticelli. Walking through the Galleria di Prigioni will observe closely the unfinished colossus and you will arrive at the David of Michelangelo: apex of anatomical perfection. Next to David are exposed floral paintings by Alessandro Allori. The visit will end with the rooms that house the works of Florentine painting of three hundred commissioned Giotto and his followers as Bernardo Daddi and Orcagna.
Boboli Gardens
In the beautiful city of Florence, behind the Palazzo Pitti, the Medici residence first, then Lorraine and Savoy, we can admire the historic Boboli Gardens. The Boboli Gardens is one of the most important examples of Italian garden in the world and is home to thousands of visitors each year. It was built by the Medici in the fifteenth century and occupies an area of about 45,000 m2. The guided tour includes a unique path between art and stunning views of the city. The Boboli Gardens is a veritable open-air museum with antique, renaissance and modern statues, decorated with caves and large fountains. Beautiful is the fountain with the statue of a dwarf riding a tortoise, made in 1560 by Valerio Cigoli. Famous is Grotto of Buontalenti made by Buontalenti for Cosimo de Medici. Going up to the grand amphitheater horseshoe and the Fontana del Carciofo , the large octagonal basin decorated with numerous statues and crowned by a bronze artichoke by Francesco Susini. Driving along the main axis reaches the Basin of Neptune, which is dominated by the bronze statue of Neptune, made by Lorenzi, at the center of a large tub. On the east side of the amphitheater near the Statue of Abundance is the Kaffeehause by Zenobius il Rosso , rococo-style pavilion with a dome exotic. The garden of the museum complex also includes the Museo degli Argenti, the Galleria del Costume, the Porcelain Museum and the Bardini Garden. The Boboli Gardens is accessible from the courtyard of Palazzo Pitti, the Forte di Belvedere, a military outpost for the safety of the king and his family, the Via Romana and the Piazzale di Porta Romana. There is also an entrance on Piazza Pitti. The name of the garden derives from the possessions of the family Borgolo in the territory of the church of Santa Felicita in Oltrarno, Luca Pitti bought as orchards in 1418. With the transfer of ownership to the Medici in 1549 began the expansion and beautification. The work was begun by Nicholas Tribolo. Tribolo is attributed to the amphitheater formed by the excavation of the hill, with the first axis prospective north-west / south-east from the Palazzo Pitti and the future of the Forte di Belvedere. Tribolo died, the direction of the work went to Bartholomeo Ammanati and later Bernardo Buontalenti. In the seventeenth century worked there Giulio Parigi and his son Alfonso. They realized the expansion to the south with the second axis of the garden towards Porta Romana.
Palazzo Pitti
Palazzo Pitti was the former residence of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany, inhabited by the Medici, Lorraine and later by the House of Savoy, kings of Italy. It is one of the most popular and most visited monuments in the city of Florence. The property overlooks the famous Boboli Gardens. Today the Palazzo Pitti is part of the Museums of Florence and houses important collections of paintings, sculptures, objets d'art and porcelain. The building includes the Gallaria Palatina, with works by Raphael, Titian, Caravaggio, Rubens and Van Dyck; the Appartamenti monumentali, consisting of 14 rooms of the Appartamenti Reali and the 6 rooms of the Appartamento degli Arazzi; the Quartiere d'Inverno, known as the Duchess of Aosta apartment and now closed to tourists; the Quartiere del Principe di Napoli, built in 1871 to accommodate the apartment Victor Emmanuel, Prince of Naples and King of Italy between 1900 and 1946; the Galleria d'arte moderna with works of macchiaioli; the Museo degli argenti with an extensive collection of priceless pieces of gold, silver, cameos, crystals, works in ivory and precious stones; the Galleria del costume, the largest museum dedicated to Italian fashion; the Museo delle porcellane located in the so-called "Casino del Cavaliere", in one of the highest points of the Boboli gardens; and the Museo delle Carrozze. Palazzo Pitti was built by the Pitti family in 1457 and designed by Filippo Brunelleschi and built by his pupil Luca Fancelli. The original building included only the central part of the present building. In 1549, the building sold to the Medici, was enlarged and remodeled. In 1560 Bartolomeo Ammannati designed and built the large and luxurious courtyard and added the two side wings. The guided tour of the Palazzo Pitti is a must for those who arrive in Florence to discover this city loved and sung by the greatest poets of the world.
Basilica di Santa Croce
If you want to see something really unique during your stay in Florence, our guides will be happy to accompany you to the Basilica di Santa Croce in the beautiful Piazza Croce. The basilica was built to the order of Franciscan monks in 1294 to a design by Arnolfo di Cambio. It was consecrated in 1443 in the presence of Eugenius IV. The Basilica di Santa Croce is also known as the Temple of the Italian Glories for the numerous tombs of illustrious Florentine and Tuscan. The church and its tombs were sung by Ugo Foscolo in his work "I Sepolcri". There are buried Michelangelo, Rossini, Machiavelli, Alfieri, Galileo Galilei, who was not given a Christian burial until 1737. There is also a monumental tomb of Dante Alighieri, but it is empty. Beautiful is the tomb of the Italian playwright Giovan Battista Niccolini to the left of the entrance, which is said to have inspired the Statue of Liberty. The basilica, divided into three naves, maintains a great artistic heritage. In the Cappella Maggiore we can admire the frescoes of Gaddi (1380) that tell the story of the Basilica di Santa Croce. In the Bardi and Peruzzi Chapels, the walls and the windows are adorned with frescoes depicting the "Life of Saint Francis and Saint John the Evangelist" by Giotto and his pupils. Absolutely to note is the high relief of the Annunciation by Donatello, stone with gold that is on the wall of the right aisle of the church. Donatello wanted to give further testimony in the Basilica di Santa Croce, sculpting the beautiful crucifix (1425). Next to the sacristy is the Cappella del Noviziato built by Michelozzo (1434-1445) and decorated by Andrea della Robbia. In the Chiostro dei Morti is the Cappella dei Pazzi, designed by Brunelleschi. Brunelleschi is also attributable to the design of the Chiostro Grande then built by Bernardo Rossellini. The facade of the Basilica di Santa Croce is colored marble from Carrara and was designed by Cronaca, while the bell tower of the church is Baccani.
Santa Maria Novella
The church of Santa Maria Novella is one of the most important churches of Italy. It is located in Florence's Piazza Santa Maria Novella, where the carriage were running at the time of the Grand Ducal Florence. The care and beauty of the ornaments of Santa Maria Novella can be summed up with the names of Leon Battista Alberti and Michelangelo who called the church 'My Wife'. Inside is the famous fresco entitled 'Trinità', the work of Masaccio, the father of Renaissance painting. The church of Santa Maria Novella belongs to the Dominican order, an order devoted time to the education of young people. It is located on the perimeter of an oratorio called "Santa Maria among the Vineyards" hence the name "Santa Maria Novella". Begun in 1279 by the two friars of the Dominican order, fra' Sisto from Florence and Fra Ristoro from Campi, was completed in 1348 by Jacopo Talenti, a third brother. The church has a Gothic-Tuscan. The facade belongs to the Renaissance and the unmistakable personality of Leon Battista Alberti. The rose window that opens on the facade, depicting the Coronation of the Virgin with the armies of angels dancing and a frame of the Prophets, was made by Andrea Bonaiuto, between 1365 and 1367. Depicted in the scene is also the principal, Tebaldino de 'Ricci. Santa Maria Novella, with the Ruccellai Palace, is the masterpiece of the architect. The church, although already completed towards the middle of the fourteenth century with the construction of the adjacent convent, however, was only officially consecrated in 1420 by Pope Martin V, who resided in the city. After the Council of Trent, between 1565 and 1571 the church was rebuilt by Giorgio Vasari. Inside the Santa Maria Novella is characterized by a plant in the Greek-cross plan, flat chapels in the transept, slender pillars and arches. The guided tour of Santa Maria Novella can be completed with a visit to the Chiostro Verde, with frescoes by Paolo Uccello, and the Cappella degli Spagnoli can be found in the frescoes of Andrea Bonaiuto, striking illustration of the doctrine Dominican.
Florence Baptistery
The Florence Baptistery, also known as the Baptistry of Saint John, is a religious building in Florence, Italy. The baptistery dedicated to Saint John the Baptist stands in front of the cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in the Piazza San Giovanni. The guided tour will take you back in time to the origins of Florence and you will understand and appreciate this monument, a symbol of the city. The Baptistery of San Giovanni is a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture in Tuscany. It has an octagonal plan and a double row of pillars supporting the arches. Here the Florentines became Christians since the days when faith was received in the city. It is one of the oldest buildings in Florence that Dante remembers calling him "my beautiful Saint John" and in which he was baptized. It was the cathedral of Florence until 1128. The building was built on the remains of a large Roman villa dating from the first century AD, considered originally a temple dedicated to the god Mars. Initially it was believed that the Baptistery dated back to the fifth century. Alterations were made in the seventh century during the Lombard domination, possibly due to the conversion to Christianity of Queen Theodolinda. The building we see today dates back to the eleventh-twelfth century. The three access doors, of exceptional interest, are arranged according to the cardinal points. The oldest is the Porta Sud , designed by Andrea Pisano in 1330. On the door there are 28 panels illustrating scenes from the life of John the Baptist. Above the Porta Sud was the famous sculptural group Beheading of St. John of Vincenzo Danti. The Porta Nord, designed by Lorenzo Ghiberti between 1403 and 1424, tells the stories of the Life and Passion of Christ taken from the New Testament. On the Porta Nord was the group of sculptures by Giovanni Francesco Rustici depicting the preaching of John the Baptist. The front door of the Cathedral is instead the beautiful Porta Est or Porta del Paradiso , made by Ghiberti between 1424 and 1452 to represent scenes from the Old Testament. On the Porta del Paradiso was the group of the Baptism of Jesus by Andrea Sansovino (1502) with Angel added in 1792. Baptistery is covered by a dome with eight segments, hidden outside of the attic, covered by a roof flattened pyramid. On the opposite side of the entrance to the apse projecting the rectangular body. The external decoration, in white marble from Carrara and green Prato, is marked by three horizontal bands, decorated with geometric panels, the middle occupied by three arches on each side, which are inserted in the upper windows with pediments. Inside the Baptistery, the triumphal arch and the dome of the apse are a splendor of Byzantine mosaics of the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries, performed by Venetian and Florentine artists. The mosaics of the tribune were initiated in 1225 by Iacopo da Torrita. Those are the dome of the fourteenth century, and they collaborated Cimabue, Andrea Riccio said Tafo and Gaddo Gaddi. In addition, there is a memorial dedicated to Baldassarre Cossa , anti-pope Julius XXIII , made by Donatello and Michelozzo between 1422 and 1428.
Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore
The guided tour of Santa Maria del Fiore will allow you to admire the immense Brunelleschi's Dome, the largest masonry dome ever built. Upon entering you will be struck by the largest surface ever decorated with frescoes: 3600 m², made between 1572-1579 by Giorgio Vasari and Federico Zuccari. The Cathedral is dedicated to Our Lady under the title of "Santa Maria del Fiore". The "flower", according to a document of the first 400, it would be Christ, sprouted on the stem (Mary), which rises from the root of the family of David. The magnificent building was begun by Arnolfo di Cambio in 1296. He had been commissioned by the Republic to perform work in a place where there was the church of Santa Reparata, Florence Cathedral, opposite the Baptistery. On the death of Arnolfo, the work was interrupted and resumed in 1334 under the direction of Giotto, who already supervised to the realization of the bell tower. From 1357 to 1364 the Opera of Duomo entrusted the work to Lapo Ghini and Francesco Talenti. In 1366 came the final project presented by four architects and construction proceeded at a fast pace. In 1436, Pope Eugene IV solemnly consecrated. The facade was built by the Florentine architect Emilio de Fabris, who was inspired by the Gothic-Florentine and expected to work from 1871 to 1883, decorating statues made by contemporary artists. Moving on to interior of the Cathedral is struck by the vastness of space and the simplicity of the furnishings. Impressive is the use of linear perspective by Brunelleschi invented in 1400 in the same Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. The dome and the choir are designed in an octagonal shape, to revive the symbolism of the Baptistery. The cupola is decorated with frescoes. The iconographic theme is the same that we find in the Baptistery: the Last Judgement. The choir, originally adorned with a superstructure with columns and lintels, now remains only the retaining wall carved with depictions of prophets from Bandinelli and his collaborators. The current altar is moved forward compared to the sixteenth century. Beyond the altar you can see "Chair" means the chair of the bishop. Behind the choir open the bronze doors by Luca Della Robbia. The stained glass windows of the cathedral are the most spectacular example of glass art in the Italy of 1300-1400. Depict saints of Old and New Testament scenes from the life of Christ and Mary. Worked here the greatest names in the art of the Florentine Renaissance. Recall Donatello, Ghiberti, Paolo Uccello, Andrea del Castagno. The bell tower of Santa Maria del Fiore was begun by Giotto in 1334, carried on after his death, by Andrea Pisano and completed in 1359 by Francesco Talenti. Is extremely rich sculptural decoration with 56 reliefs in two superimposed with 16 statues by Florentine masters of the '300 and '400, including Andrea Pisano, Donatello and Luca della Robbia. We advise you to climb to the top of the dome of the Duomo to enjoy a magnificent view of the entire Florence!
Basilica di San Miniato al Monte
The Basilica of San Miniato al Monte with the Baptistery, is the most important Romanesque building in Florence and one of the masterpieces of Florence. Situated in a wonderful location in the area of the Viali dei Colli , is preceded by a large square from which you have a magnificent view of the city and the surrounding hills. The guided tour will take you to discover the beautiful green and white marble facade, with a central mosaic depicting St. Miniato the Virgin and Christ, and of its interior with masterpieces of great value. The Basilica of San Miniato al Monte, Florence Romanesque building was begun in the eleventh century and ended in the thirteenth century. The magnificent basilica houses the relics of San Miniato, obtained by Bishop Hildebrand under the current ‘Porta Santa’, in what perhaps can be considered one of the oldest Christian cemeteries in Florence. In the crypt, the relics of San Miniato are protected by a beautiful fourteenth-century gate. Beautiful facade is covered with white marble and dark greens. It has five arches in the lower order, while the upper floor is divided into three pilasters with a central window in the gable surmounted by a mosaic. On the top stands the bronze eagle of the Calimala guild, the guild of merchants tissue, which for centuries has maintained the patronage of the church. On the threshold of the ‘Porta Santa’ , the faithful are warned with these hopeful words: "Haec east Porta Coeli 'or' This is the Gate of Heaven". It is the exclamation of Jacob after he dreamed of the famous stairway resting on the earth, whose top reached to heaven while the angels of God ascending and descending on it. In the interior of exceptional interest are: the small cappella del Crocifisso , designed by Michelozzo; The frescoes in the sacristy performed by Spinello Aretino towards the end of the fourteenth century; the mosaic in the apse vault, and the chapel of the Cardinal of Portugal, built by Antonio Manetti (1461-66) for the Cardinal Archbishop of Lisbon Jacopo di Lusitania, which contains works by Antonio Rossellino, Luca della Robbia and Alessio Baldovinetti.
Museo Nazionale del Bargello
In Florence, do not miss the guided tour of the National Museum of the Bargello, one of the most prestigious museums in the world. The Bargello Museum is part of the group of museums that form the Museums of Florence and is dedicated to the applied arts. The museum is the most important in the world for Renaissance sculpture. Houses masterpieces by Michelangelo, Donatello, Ghiberti, Cellini, Giambologna, Ammannati and other important sculptors. On the upper floors there are: David Giovinetto by Donatello, San Giorgio by Donatello, David Giovinetto by Verrocchio, San Giovannino by Donatello, Athys by Donatello, Bacco by Michelangelo. In the sala delle Maioliche are collected Della Robbia terracottas (Luca, Andrea, Giovanni ) from the house of Medici, as the round of the Madonna and Child with Saints, enclosed in the classic festoon of flowers. The glazing of the pottery of this well-known family of artists, of which the most valuable is always Luke, is still a secret. The Museo Nazionale del Bargello is located in the Palazzo del Bargello, designed in 1255 by architect Lapo German as the town hall. From the eleventh to the nineteenth century, the building housed the police force of the city. Later it became a courthouse and its cross section was used as a prison town. A large section of the Tower Volognana, the Bargello Palace, was the place where it was held the majority of the prisoners. The name of the tower more than 57 meters high, is one of the first prisoner held in its jails, Geri from Volognana. The bell at the top has been used for centuries to bring men to battle or announce an execution. In 1865 was inaugurated the National Museum on the ground floor. Were set up in a hall sculpture Four-Five hundred and two rooms in arms, with objects coming from the armory and from the Guardaroba of Palazzo Vecchio. Today the ground floor, in the shop windows admire muskets, pistols, swords and armor. In the hall of the first floor were placed the sculptures from the salon dei Cinquecento in Palazzo Vecchio. From the Uffizi, came sculptures in bronze and marble, ceramics, wax, amber, ivory, gold, enamels and bronzes. Other materials flowed from private donations and public institutions.
Palazzo Strozzi
Palazzo Strozzi is one of the masterpieces of the Florentine Renaissance. It is located in Via Strozzi, Piazza Strozzi and via Tornabuoni. Palazzo Strozzi was commissioned by the wealthy banker Filippo Strozzi to Benedetto da Majano in 1489, was completed by Cronaca that he realized the culmination of the facade and courtyard porch. The lateral lanterns, beautiful wrought iron work, are of the deposit, the most famous blacksmith active in Florence in the fifteenth century. The Strozzi family, was one of the wealthiest families in Florence, hostile to the faction of the Medici. Palazzo Strozzi was deliberately built of magnitude higher than the Palazzo Medici. Its size is impressive, as many as 15 buildings were destroyed to make room for him. It has a cubic shape developed on three floors around a central courtyard. The ashlar facade gives the appearance of an ancient fort. On the ground floor of the opening rectangular windows, while the upper floors there are two tiers of elegant windows. The torch holders are still well preserved, the candelabra, the flag holders and rings for horses in wrought iron. On each of the three sides facing the street there are three great arched portals identical. In 1937 the Palazzo Strozzi was bought by the National Insurance Institute. In 1999 it was sold to the state. Today it is home to important cultural events and exhibitions, such as Antichità. The Piano Nobile annually hosts two major exhibitions devoted to themes or top artists, ranging from the Renaissance to modern times. It is also home to four major institutions: the Gabinetto G. P. Vieusseux, the Istituto Nazionale di Studi sul Rinascimento, the Istituto Italiano di Scienze Umane, the Fondazione Palazzo Strozzi. We offer guided tours to discover one of the most beautiful Italian Renaissance palaces. In conjunction with the Strozzi Palace you can visit the complex of the Basilica di Santa Croce , Chiesa di Santa Felicita, Complesso and Basilica della Santissima Annunziata, Basilica di San Lorenzo and the Palazzo Vecchio.
Basilica di San Lorenzo
Do not miss the guided tour of the Basilica di San Lorenzo, breathe in the atmosphere of the genius of Brunelleschi. The Basilica di San Lorenzo is one of the main churches in Florence. It is located in Piazza San Lorenzo in the historic center of the city. The church dedicated to San Lorenzo in 393 by Ambrose, Bishop of Milan, it is therefore also known as the Basilica Ambrosiana. For three hundred years it was the cathedral of Florence, before giving status to Santa Reparata, when the relics of Saint Zenobius, Bishop of Florence, were solemnly transferred. It took the final appearance in 1423 when Brunelleschi was called by Giovanni di Bicci de’Medici to direct the work. Brunelleschi was inspired by other works of the medieval Florentine tradition, like Santa Croce, Santa Maria Novella and Santa Trinità, but the outcomes were more revolutionary. Brunelleschi's work is the old sacristy is decorated with frescoes by Donatello. In the cupola of the sacristy is a fresco which depicts a small planetarium in which they are depicted with precision only celestial bodies that made up the sky of Florence in the summer of 1442. Later Michelangelo built the Chapel, burial of the Medici, the library, arranged the internal facade and designed the outside, never performed. The church has a Latin cross with three naves. At the intersection of the arms is a dome. In the new sacristy are the tombs of Lorenzo the Magnificent and Giuliano placed and constructed according to a design by Michelangelo. Of particular interest is the Cappella Medicea; from here it is easy to reach the biblioteca Medicea Laurenziana which houses a prestigious collection of manuscripts. The pulpit on the right is the work of Donatello, terminated by Bertoldo and Bellano. Around the church takes the characteristic mercato di San Lorenzo, built during the period when Florence was the capital (1870). The market, which specializes in clothing, leather goods, gifts and souvenirs, winds through via dell'Ariento, Piazza San Lorenzo, Via del Canto de 'Nelli, Via Sant' Antonino, Via Panicale, Piazza del Mercato Centrale. At the center of the popular market there is a statue of Giovanni delle Bande Nere, built by Baccio Bandinelli in 1540.
Loggia della Signoria
The guided tour of the Piazza della Signoria will let you know one of the most admired and photographed around the world. Your tour guide will take you to discover the majestic grandeur of one of the most fascinating monumental complexes of the city of Florence. Piazza della Signoria of incomparable beauty and solemnity is dominated by the imposing Palazzo Vecchio, the Loggia della Signoria, the great fountain and numerous monuments. The whole creates an unforgettable vision of greatness and power. Here, in fact, for centuries unfolded the great political and historical events and took shape throughout the life of Florence in its internal struggles, in his statements of power and its message of civilization in the world. La Loggia della Signoria is a rare example of late Gothic style with Renaissance influences. It was also called the Loggia dei Lanzi, because in the sixteenth century stopped there Lanzichenecchi made defense of Cosimo I. It was also known as the Loggia of Orcagna, following a supposed drawing of the artist. The construction is due to Benci di Cione, Simone di Francesco Talenti and others. The same architects also worked on the construction of the Cathedral. La Loggia della Signoria was built between 1376-1382 for the election and proclamation of the Priors and the Gonfalonier and other ceremonies of the Signoria. The masterpieces of sculpture under the loggia, belonging to different eras, forming a wonderful open-air museum. Under the first arch on the left admire "Perseus", a masterpiece in bronze by Benvenuto Cellini, executed between 1545 and 1554. Behind "Perseus" see "the Rape of Polyxena", a beautiful nineteenth-century sculpture by Pio Fedi built in 1866. In the middle of the lodge, "Menelaus supporting the body of Patroclus", ancient greek sculpture comes from an original given to the Grand Duke Cosimo I by Pope Pius V and transported to Florence in 1579. It was placed here in 1841. Beneath the arch of the right a masterpiece of the Belgian sculptor Giambologna "Rape of the Sabine Women". Behind another beautiful sculpture by the same artist "Hercules killing the Centaur Nessus" performed in 1599, placed here in 1842.
Loggia della Signoria
The guided tour of the Piazza della Signoria will let you know one of the most admired and photographed around the world. Your tour guide will take you to discover the majestic grandeur of one of the most fascinating monumental complexes of the city of Florence. Piazza della Signoria of incomparable beauty and solemnity is dominated by the imposing Palazzo Vecchio, the Loggia della Signoria, the great fountain and numerous monuments. The whole creates an unforgettable vision of greatness and power. Here, in fact, for centuries unfolded the great political and historical events and took shape throughout the life of Florence in its internal struggles, in his statements of power and its message of civilization in the world. La Loggia della Signoria is a rare example of late Gothic style with Renaissance influences. It was also called the Loggia dei Lanzi, because in the sixteenth century stopped there Lanzichenecchi made defense of Cosimo I. It was also known as the Loggia of Orcagna, following a supposed drawing of the artist. The construction is due to Benci di Cione, Simone di Francesco Talenti and others. The same architects also worked on the construction of the Cathedral. La Loggia della Signoria was built between 1376-1382 for the election and proclamation of the Priors and the Gonfalonier and other ceremonies of the Signoria. The masterpieces of sculpture under the loggia, belonging to different eras, forming a wonderful open-air museum. Under the first arch on the left admire "Perseus", a masterpiece in bronze by Benvenuto Cellini, executed between 1545 and 1554. Behind "Perseus" see "the Rape of Polyxena", a beautiful nineteenth-century sculpture by Pio Fedi built in 1866. In the middle of the lodge, "Menelaus supporting the body of Patroclus", ancient greek sculpture comes from an original given to the Grand Duke Cosimo I by Pope Pius V and transported to Florence in 1579. It was placed here in 1841. Beneath the arch of the right a masterpiece of the Belgian sculptor Giambologna "Rape of the Sabine Women". Behind another beautiful sculpture by the same artist "Hercules killing the Centaur Nessus" performed in 1599, placed here in 1842.
Palazzo Medici Riccardi
Palazzo Medici Riccardi is one of the most beautiful and famous palaces in Florence. The building is the prototype of Renaissance civil architecture. The guided tour of the building will be particularly fascinating, the visitor will have the opportunity to retrace over four centuries of history and architecture of Florence. The route starts on the ground floor, through the courtyard by Michelozzo, one of the most interesting places of the Renaissance in Florence. A true jewel of the building is the Cappella dei Magi, where you can admire the frescoes of Benozzo Gozzoli, famous all over the world. Do not miss the beautiful Galleria dating from the late seventeenth century, in which stands the spectacular fresco by Luca Giordano. Our tour guides will take you also to other splendidly decorated as the Biblioteca Moreniana and the Biblioteca Riccardiana. Palazzo Medici Riccardi hosts temporary exhibitions dedicated to the great protagonists of the Renaissance and Baroque periods. The building expresses the political and cultural primacy of the Medici in Florence. This superb building was commissioned by Cosimo il Vecchio to Michelozzo Michelozzi, a student of Brunelleschi. Here the artist reached its architectural masterpiece. The Palace stood out with its mass to those arriving from the Duomo. The desired effect is fully successful: the loop feels a sense of fear, as in front of a fortress. The heavy door, the rare openings covered with iron bars, not at all invite to join. At the top you can admire the giant arms of the Medici. After a period of neglect, in 1659 the building was sold to the Riccardi who enlarged the building to the north and it restructured in the interior part. The interventions were guided by two principles: the exterior was to respect the tradition set by the Renaissance style of the Medici, the interiors were to be adapted to the baroque splendor in vogue at the time. In 1814 the Riccardi family sold the building to the Lorraine, the rulers of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany. After the Unification of Italy, between 1865 and 1870 while Florence was the capital of the nation, the palace became the headquarters of the Ministry of the Interior. Since 1874 it is owned by the Province of Florence.
Hospital of the Innocents
The Ospedale degli Innocenti, 'Hospital of the Innocents', also known in old Tuscan dialect as the Spedale degli Innocenti, is a historical building in Florence, Italy. The guided tour of the Hospital of the Innocents will be a one of a kind experience. The tour guides will accompany you in the most ancient Italian public institution dedicated to the protection of children and the family. Located in Piazza della Santissima Annunziata, was founded in the fifteenth century by the Arte della Seta in order to decrease the painful phenomenon of infants abandoned. The Hospital helped raise abandoned children and teach them some to offer him a place in society. The project was entrusted to Filippo Brunelleschi, who had the aim of creating "a beautiful place for underprivileged children". On the whole cloisters, arcades, dining halls, dormitories, infirmaries and "nursery" the artist created an elegant hospital. Then it was decorated with frescoes documenting the continuing activities and the favor of the Medici. After the flood of 1966, the entire complex was completely renovated in an attempt to restore the original appearance of the fifteenth century. For over six centuries this Institute is concerned in the hope of changing the plight of disadvantaged children and their families. The structure is characterized by a straight porch with access to a yard square with the church and the hall of the beds. The lower ground floor consists of living rooms used by the school and workshop. The porch acts as a hinge between the orphanage and the square. The facade is characterized by arches supported by corinthian columns. In the loggia above the portico there is a small museum of the works of art collected over the centuries thanks to donations. Here are preserved frescoes and works of Sandro Botticelli, Luca della Robbia, Piero di Cosimo and you can admire the beautiful Adoration of the Shepherds by Domenico Ghirlandaio, the master of Michelangelo. The museum brings together the monumental complex of the Innocents and the historical and artistic heritage, to tell six centuries of history of this extraordinary place and promote the culture of childhood.
Certosa di Firenze
A guided tour very nice to do, especially if it's a nice sunny day, is that the abbey of Certosa di Galluzzo near Florence. It is very famous because it contains priceless works by artists such as Donatello, Pontormo, Andrea and Giovanni della Robbia. Among the main attractions of the Certosa the frescoes of the Passion of Christ by Pontormo. The abbey is located on Monte Acuto also called the "Holy Mountain". The property is surrounded by a high city walls, draws a feudal castle. It was built starting in 1341 by Niccolò Acciaioli, belonging to one of the richest banking families in Florence. The original nucleus of the Certosa abbey was later enlarged in the following centuries until it assumed its present appearance. In 1866 it became the property of the Italian State and since 1958 has once again become a place of faith. The Certosa di Galluzzo is made up of several buildings: church, chapter house, sacristy, refectory, cloisters, workshops and dwellings for the monks and lay brothers. The church of San Lorenzo, built in 1545, has a Renaissance style. Features are the chapels of the convent: Cappella di S. Tobia, Cappella di Santa Andrea and Cappella di S. Maria . The Chiostro Grande built at the beginning of the sixteenth century is very spacious and has at its center a typical old stone well and wrought iron door to the cells of the monks. The Charterhouse was designed to accommodate a maximum of 18 cloistered monks and lay brothers 5. The cloistered monks possessed a cell rather large, because there they had to spend almost all of their existence. They could leave his cell only on special occasions, such as Sundays, for lunch, for prayer and for the one hour weekly interview. All other days, the hermit monks remained in their cell. Beautiful is the Palazzo Acciaiuoli, completed in 1500, is used as a small art gallery and there are important works of art by major artists such as Andrea and Giovanni della Robbia and Donatello Pontormo. The great hall of the Palace houses the splendid frescoes depicting episodes from the Passion of Christ made by Pontormo during the period of his stay in the Abbey (1523-1525).
Villa di Castello
The Villa di Castello is one of the oldest suburban residences of the Medici family. In this villa, Botticelli painted two of his most famous and well known in the world: The "Primavera" and "Birth of Venus". This villa is famous for the magnificent garden, second only to those of Boboli. The garden is the best preserved example of "Italian garden" according to the canons and descriptions of Leon Battista Alberti. It was designed by Niccolò Tribolo in 1538, a year after the rise to power of the young Duke Cosimo I. The purpose was to celebrate the power of the prince through the symbolism of the statues, fountains and caves. Vasari considers the garden as one of the richest in Europe. Preferred by Cosimo I de 'Medici, the villa was owned by the Medici until 147, when it passed to the Savoy. In 1919, Victor Emmanuel III donated to the Italian State. Today the villa, also called Villa Reale, Olmo or Vivaio, is home to the Accademia della Crusca and the Opera del Vocabolario Italiano. The gardens are a site run by the Superintendence for the State Museums of Florence. The guided tour of the Villa Medici at Castello takes you through the rooms of the prestigious Accademia della Crusca and places of the wonderful garden. Of extraordinary charm is the Grotta degli animali. Here the visitor is greeted with amazing water features. The set decoration is very suggestive: the cave, consisting of two rooms, has walls entirely covered with mosaics, limestone concretions, pebbles and shells; the rooms are decorated with tubs decorated with polychrome statues of animals. From the Grotta degli animali you reach the statua dell’Appennino, built by Bartolomeo Ammannati between 1563 and 1565. Suggestive are the two small secret gardens side. The eastern, called "Ortaccio", was characterized by a hut, situated on a large tree. Inside there was a marble table with musical fountain. The garden also hosted the "stufa dei mugherini", pavilion with collections of jasmine, started by Cosimo III. The other small garden is called "Dell'imbrecciato" for paving gravel polychrome. This was connected to the kitchen for the exclusive use of the master.
Fiesole
Fiesole is situated on a gently rolling hills just a few kilometers from the city of Florence. The Etruscan town, famous throughout the world, is an ideal place to spend a day full of art and nature. The guided tour in Fiesole will allow you to immerse yourself in unspoiled woods, through small villages, past castles, shrines, stone quarries and famous villas. These include: Villa Medici, Villa Peyron, Castel di Poggio, Castello di Vincigliata, Villa di Maiano, Villa San Michele, Villa le Balze, Villa Montececeri, Villa Nieuwenkamp and Villa Schifanoia. You will have the opportunity to follow paths that overlook Florence, visit the mysterious source Bury and get on the hill where Leonardo da Vinci, in 1506, he experienced his Flight Machine. Beautiful is the Piazza Mino da Fiesole with the center of the equestrian monument depicting the meeting of Garibaldi and Victor Emmanuel II. At the center of the square we can admire the Cathedral of San Romolo inside with precious works of art. The characteristic Via San Francesco leads steeply uphill, to the piazzale del colle San Francesco. Here in a dominant position on the ancient Etruscan stronghold, admire the beautiful church of San Francesco. The facade of the church has a porch roof surmounted by a rose window. Inside you can admire an "Annunciation" by Raffaellino del Garbo. The convent of San Francisco is home to a Missionary Museum. The old cathedral of Fiesole is the Badia Fiesolana. The splendid facade covered with geometric designs in white and green marble. A must-visit is the Church and Convent of San Domenico. Here lived Giovanni da Fiesole, called Fra Angelico, where he made many of his works exhibited in major museums around the world. The archaeological area of Fiesole is one of the oldest and most impressive sites of Italy, charm and conservation. An area of about 35000 square meters you can admire the remains of a Roman theater in the imperial age on which stands the characteristic bell tower of the cathedral, an Etruscan-Roman temple and a spa facility. Not to be missed is a visit to the Archaeological Museum which houses remains from the Etruscan, Roman and medieval. The tour guides will accompany you in the Museo Bandini and the Museo o Fondazione Primo Conti. The first collects Florentine paintings from the thirteenth to the fifteenth century and glazed ceramics of the great family of the Della Robbia. The second is home to over sixty paintings and more than one hundred and fifty drawings of the Master of Futurism.
The Florentine Renaissance
The city of Florence is the cradle of the Renaissance: the renewal of artistic, architectural and literary began in the early decades of the fifteenth century. The movement is connected with the new Florentine merchant middle class, and just the new class, consisting of the families of the Pitti, Rucellai, Medici, Strozzi. These become promoters of a new culture and new architectural taste. The Florentine Renaissance is done starting with the work of the architect Brunelleschi, whose most famous work is the dome of Santa Maria del Fiore without armor. Other famous works of Brunelleschi in Firenze are: the Hospital of the Innocents, Basilica of San Lorenzo, the Basilica of Santa Maria del Santo Spirito. Between 1429 and 1443, he directed the work of the Pazzi Chapel. Brunelleschi was the creator of the classic type of the Florentine Renaissance palace, one example is the Palazzo Pitti. The merit of the advent of the Renaissance is due to other important characters: Masaccio (painting), Donatello (sculpture) and Leon Battista Alberti. During the years of the "Renaissance", Florence became the center of humanism which finds its foundation and where the literary culture, the sciences and the arts are put in the foreground. The Florentine Renaissance, in opposition to the international Gothic style, is the revival of the classical ancient world. The man needs to be located in a space rational, mathematically measurable, refusing to indefinite of medieval civilization. From here the diffusion of the perspective view, the invention of which is attributed to Brunelleschi. It becomes a tool of knowledge to measure and reproduce reality. In Florence, born artists such as Brunelleschi, Arnolfo, Donatello, Botticelli, Ghiberti, Masaccio, Fra Angelico, Verrocchio, Ghirlandaio, Andrea del Castagno, Lippi, della Robbia and ending with Michelangelo and Leonado da Vinci. From the memory of these great artists memory or the city bears the name of a place or a building, a bridge or a street. The Renaissance spread from Florence to Rimini, Urbino, Venice and Milan, and then throughout Europe until the early decades of the sixteenth century.
Medici
The Medici are one of the most famous families in Europe. The Medici family ruled the city of Florence from the fifteenth to the eighteenth century. The family gave birth to three popes, Leo X, Clement VII, and Leo XI and two queens of France, Caterina and Maria de Medici. The work of Medici distinguished itself for having promoted in an optimal manner and for several generations, the artistic, cultural, spiritual and scientific life . Their extraordinary art collections of precious objects, books and manuscripts, rarities and curiosities are the basis of the assets of many of the most important cultural institutions in Florence. The lineage has its roots in the Tuscan countryside of the Mugello. In the villa of Cafaggiolo identifies their first home. Peasants, the Medici turned into merchants and bankers then. The founder of the family fortune was Giovanni di Bicci that at the beginning of the fifteenth century has amassed a fortune showy. From his marriage with Piccarda Bueri born two children: Cosimo (1389-1464) and Lorenzo (1395-1440), also called "Il Vecchio", which will originate from the two branches of the family. The descendants of Cosimo will be lords of Florence until 1537. Recall Piero said "Il Gottoso " (1416-1469), Lorenzo said "Il Magnifico" (1449-1492), Piero said "Lo Sfortunato" (1471-1503), Lorenzo Duke of Urbino (1492 -1519) and Catherine de Medici (1519-1589) Queen of France. The Medici descended from Lorenzo il Vecchio living in the shadow of the first, sometimes even taking advantage of the misfortunes of the elder branch or provoking them. In Cosimo I de 'Medici (1519-1574), founder of the dynasty of the Medici grand dukes of Tuscany that will hold the state until 1737, will bring together the two branches of the family. Do not miss the Medici Route. The guided tour will be a path through the testimony Medici in Florence. The stages are as follows:
• Medici-Riccardi Palace, built in 1444 by Michelozzo for Cosimo il Vecchio. Passed to the Riccardi, the building was expanded with a seventeenth-century gallery where it is painted the Allegory of the Medici.
•Basilica di San Lorenzo : Old Sacristy, Medici Chapels and the New Sacristy, with the tomb of Lorenzo the Magnificent, and other Medici.
• Piazza della Signoria with the Palazzo Vecchio, the home of Cosimo I, the Medici church of Santa Felicita.
Pitti Palace, the last residence of the family, and the magnificent Boboli garden created behind by Tribolo (1550).
Michelangelo
The name of Michelangelo immediately brings to mind his masterpieces are recognized around the world: the David in Florence, the fresco of the Sistine Chapel in Rome with the great Judgment, the Pietà , the Moses or the monumental complex of the Medici Tombs in the Sacristy new of San Lorenzo. Few artists have left their mark so deep and long-lasting in the history of art as the great Michelangelo Buonarroti (Caprese 1475 - Rome 1564). The city of Florence retains many of his masterpieces, drawings, sculptures, paintings and architecture. The great Renaissance artist, a scholar of the works of Masaccio and Brunelleschi, is formed in the workshops of Florence Ghirlandaio and Bertoldo time of Lorenzo the Magnificent. Moves from Florence to Siena, Bologna, Venice, Lunigiana and especially in Rome, where he later died, far from his home town for the last thirty years of his life. Transferred the remains to Florence, was buried in Basilica of Santa Croce, where Giorgio Vasari him stands the monument. The route of Michelangelo in Florence is designed for lovers of the great genius. The visitor, visiting places which are inextricably linked to his memory, to better understand his artistic experience. The guided tour includes the following stages:
• Accademia Gallery (David, Prisons, St. Matthew, Palestrina Pietà)
• Medici Chapels with the New Sacristy
• Biblioteca Mediceo-Laurenziana
• Museo dell'Opera di Santa Maria del Fiore (Pietà Bandini)
• National Museum of the Bargello (Tondo Pitti, Brutus, Bacchus)
• Casa Buonarroti (Madonna of the Stairs and Battle of the Centaurs)
Basilica of Santa Croce (the tomb of Michelangelo)
Leonardo
Leonardo da Vinci (Vinci, April 15, 1452 - Amboise, May 2, 1519) was a painter, engineer and scientist Italian. One of the most brilliant and eclectic personality that the world has ever had. His knowledge and skills ranged in every field of human knowledge. Men of genius and talent of the universal Renaissance, fully incarnated the spirit of his age. He had his education in the city of Florence, where he became part of Verrocchio's workshop at the age of 17 years. Under the Verrocchio remained for more than ten years, during which he was able to hone their painting skills and where he also studied engineering, mechanical engineering and architecture. In 1482 he moved to Milan, at the court of Ludovico il Moro, where he could engage in the first important works on mechanics. After a period of permanence in various Italian courts (1499-1508), Leonardo returned to Milan, came under the control of the French governor, Charles d'Amboise, his great admirer. The latter's death, after a brief stop in Rome, he moved to France where he remained permanently to devote to their studies and where he died in May 1519. Itinerary dedicated to Leonardo, one of the leading exponents of Renaissance begins with Vinci in the Valdarno, his native country, with the visit of the historic center and the Leonardo Museum, housed in the modern Palazzina Uzielli and halls of the Castello dei Conti Guidi. The tour continues in the nearby Anchiano to visit the birthplace of Leonardo, recently restored and open to the public. Then we will head in the center of Florence, with the visit of the Museo delle macchine di Leonardo in Via Cavour and Museum Leonardesco in Via de 'Servi. The tour ends with a stroll in the heart of Florence's historic center, until you reach Via de 'Gondi, the place where Leonardo lived in the years of his stay in Florence.
Botticelli
He was born in 1445 in Florence, in the township Ognissanti , died in the same city at the age of 65, in 1510. Botticelli was tied Neo-Platonic Academy which revolved around Lorenzo de 'Medici, called the Magnificent, which stood between the philosopher Marsilio Ficino , writers Agnolo Poliziano and Pico della Mirandola or the great artist Leon Battista Alberti. The first commission coming from the Medici family, and it was during this period that he produced his most famous works: Primavera , Birth of Venus, Pallas and the Centaur. In 1481 he went to Rome to execute frescoes on the walls of the Sistine Chapel. Performs three episodes: the Trials of Moses, the Trials of Christ and Punishment of Korah, Dathan and Abiram. Booking a guided tour of the Uffizi in Florence will have the chance to admire some of his masterpieces. Here are shown some of the most important works of Botticelli's genius. Among the most beloved and well-known Renaissance paintings in the world: La Primavera and The Birth of Venus. Botticelli's Primavera was painted for Lorenzo di Pierfrancesco de 'Medici between 1477 and 1482. It is a refined painting. On the right we see Flora and Zephyr chasing the fertile with a puff. Plant turns then in the spring, scattering flowers on the world. Venus, in the center, represents the Humanitas, namely benevolence, which protects men. To the left of the Three Graces and Mercury dance dissipates the clouds. The Birth of Venus is definitely one of the most known and loved the world, a symbol of Italian painting of the 400. It was painted by Botticelli between 1482 and 1485. Venus is portrayed naked on a shell that cuts through the surface of the sea; left flying the winds, to the right a servant (Time) waits for the goddess dress. In the meadow we can see violets, symbol of love. The work represents the birth of love and spiritual beauty as the driving force of life. The work is the first example in Tuscany painting on large canvas. Among the other works in the room remember Annunciation, The fortress, Portrait of a Man with a Medal of Cosimo il Vecchio, The discovery of the body of Holofernes, The Return of Judith to betuli, The Adoration of the Magi, Madonna of the Magnificat.
Orvieto
Orvieto is one of the oldest cities in Italy, a small treasure trove of art, famous throughout the world. It was one of the most important Etruscan cities. It is located in Umbria, in the province of Terni, about 45 km from Viterbo. The ancient city is located on the top of a cliff in tuff which is reached by cable car. For this reason, Orvieto has been called "The city high and strange". From a distance, especially at night, it seems suspended in the sky while during the day, it is just resting on clouds. Orvieto is a must-see during a tour in Umbria. The guided tour will take you to discover its archaeological treasures and its architectural and natural beauties. The tour guides will take you on one of the most famous monuments in Italy: the Pozzo di San Patrizio. This engineering marvel was built in 1527 by Giuliano da Sangallo il Giovane , at the behest of Pope Clement VII. The subsoil of Orvieto still reserves many surprises, tunnels and cavities reveal another world to discover, Orvieto Underground: an underground dug from the ninth century BC. Beautiful is the Rocca Albornoz, fortress of the XIV century, now converted into a public park. Even more amazing is the view from the terrace of the walls. Walking along Corso Cavour you reach the Torre del Moro, at the center of the city. With its 40 meters of height is needless to say that the view from the top is breathtaking! A few steps from the tower is located Piazza del Popolo and the eponymous Palazzo del Popolo, the thirteenth-century town hall, built in tuff and in typical "style of Orvieto". Nearby you can admire the magnificent Cathedral of S. Maria Assunta, a masterpiece of Italian art that blend perfectly architecture, sculpture and painting medieval. It is considered one of the most beautiful Gothic churches in Italy. Breathtaking is the facade, 52 meters high x 40 meters wide, decorated with precious and elegant mosaics . The interior is reminiscent of the Duomo of Siena. In the Chapel of the Corporal are the relics of the Holy Corporal of Bolsena. Worthy of note is the Chapel of San Brizio, with frescoes by Angelico and Signorelli between 1498 and 1501. At the rear of the cathedral are the Palazzi dei Papi, austere buildings thirteenth entitled to Urban IV, Martin IV, Boniface VIII. In the latter, also known as Palazzo Soliano, is the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo. Walking through the medieval district of San Giovenale, we will see the churches of St. Juvenal, St. John and St. Dominic, which contains the marble sarcophagus carved by Arnolfo di Cambio. Do not miss the Temple of Belvedere, dating from the fifth century BC, one of the best preserved Etruscan monuments. The Abbey of Saints Severo and Martirio, just outside the city, offers a unique view of Orvieto and its cliff.
Duomo di Orvieto and the Miracle of the Eucharist
Miracle of art built to guard a miracle of faith, the Cathedral of Orvieto, is one of the greatest artistic achievements of the late Middle Ages. The Cathedral every August 11 celebrates the Corpus Domini. The construction of the Cathedral is linked to the miracle of the Eucharist took place in Bolsena in 1263. It is said that a priest tormented by doubts about the real presence of the body and blood of Christ in the consecrated host, went on a pilgrimage to Rome to atone for his unbelief. Arrived at Bolsena celebrated a mass at the altar of S. Cristina. At the moment of consecration, after asking the Lord to dispel his doubts, he saw drops of blood upon the host, which glistened in the corporal, or the linen cloth used in religious functions. The guided tour of the Cathedral, you can admire the valuable Corporal of the Miracle of Bolsena. The building, begun in 1290 reveals an extraordinary harmony despite having worked there 20 different artists for more than three centuries. Breathtaking is the facade, 52 meters high x 40 meters wide, decorated with precious and elegant mosaics. The most important changes were made by Arnolfo di Cambio, Lorenzo Maitani and Orcagna. Starting from the bottom, you can admire the bas-reliefs with stories from the Old and New Testament and the Last Judgement. At the center is the magnificent rose window and all around the mosaics. The interior "striped" is typically in Tuscan style recalls the Duomo of Siena. In the Chapel of the Corporal are the relics of the Holy Corporal of Bolsena. The corporal and the host are preserved in a reliquary of gold, silver and enamel, a true masterpiece of medieval, carried out in 1337-1338 by the Sienese Ugolino di Vieri. A masterpiece of the Italian Renaissance is the Chapel of San Brizio. It was decorated with frescoes by Beato Angelico and Signorelli between 1498 and 1501. The theme of the chapel is the Last Judgement. Extraordinary scenes with the Preaching of the Antichrist, the Resurrection of the flesh, and the devil's Defeat at the hands of San Michele, the Climb to Paradise and the Damned to Hell.
Orvieto underground
Orvieto, an ancient city almost magically suspended between heaven and earth, reveals another of the aspects that make it unique and exceptional. A maze of caves hidden in the silent darkness of the cliff. In recent years a group of cavers has brought to light a complex maze made up of more than 1,200 caves, tunnels, wells and cisterns. Discovered by chance after a landslide, you can now discover Orvieto underground by booking your guided tour. You will be accompanied to the discovery of this fascinating itinerary. The city of Orvieto has always had an intense life underground. For centuries the people of Orvieto dug into the tuff rock on which the city is built by constructing a new, underground and hidden. Wells, quarries, laboratories, animal shelters and olive presses have ensured the survival of the inhabitants in the area for millennia. Numerous and ubiquitous even the cellars for storing wine and food products. The most magnificent examples are the Pozzo di San Patrizio and the even more ancient Pozzo della Cava. Worthy of note are the tanks of some monumental squares and cloisters: Piazza del Popolo, the Cloister of San Giovanni, and the Cloister of San Francesco in the Biblioteca Comunale in Piazza Febei. A must is a visit to the archaeological site in the basement of St. Andrew's Church. Not to be forgotten is the Cave of the fossilized trees, an artificial cavity of great interest, with paleobotanical remains. An underground place of singular charm and interest is the Museum of Medieval and Renaissance Majolica of Orvieto. The guided tour will allow you to make an extraordinary journey through time, a exciting and easy journey in the heart of Orvieto. You will enter a place where past and present merge. Step by step echoes mysterious and fascinating recount of Etruscan Velzna, while on the shadow shine ghosts of medieval and Renaissance art.
The Pozzo di San Patrizio
One of the most exciting experiences to do in Orvieto is definitely guided tour of the Underground City. The underground city holds many surprises. For centuries the people of Orvieto dug into the tuff rock a city hidden underground. You will be accompanied in a complex maze made up of more than 1,200 caves, tunnels, cisterns and wells. The most well known is certainly the Pozzo di San Patrizio, located near the communal gardens of the Fortress of Albornoz. The name of the well is due to the analogy with the legendary cave which was located on an island in Lough Derg, in Ireland, where the Irish saint loved to retire in prayer and in medieval times it became a place of pilgrimage. The Pozzo di San Patrizio is an extraordinary feat of civil engineering of the sixteenth century. It was excavated by order of Pope Clement VII took refuge in Orvieto during the sack of Rome in 1527. The objective was to ensure the city water at any time of year, especially in anticipation of a siege like that of the sack of Rome by which the Pope had just escaped. Its construction was entrusted to Antonio da Sangallo, assisted by Giovanni Battista da Cortona. The well is entirely carved into the stone. Its dimensions are impressive: 62 meters deep, has a diameter of 13.5 meters. The masterpiece of Sangallo were the twin spiral staircases, spacious and independent, one for the descent and the other for the ascent. This made it possible to make the loading of the water easier, thanks to the possibility of bringing down the pack mules. The two steps, consisting of 248 steps each, receiving light from 72 windows, creating a surreal atmosphere. Going down the stairs you will come down to the bowels of the earth: a long journey in the dark at the end where it meets the water the source of life.
Piazza del Popolo in Orvieto
Once in Orvieto cross the central Piazza del Popolo. The towers, palaces and towers that surround tell the eloquence of its history. The square was built to accommodate the building that would house the captain of the people, a new military-political figure who was joined to that of the consuls and the mayor. Between 1281 and 1284 there arose the largest city square. Over the centuries the square has always been the central place of the civil life of Orvieto. Dominates the skyline of the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo, with the bizarre tower and the beautiful staircase leading to the entrance hall. The palace was built in the early years of the fourteenth century in Romanesque style. It is characterized by an arcaded loggia dominated by a large living room open to the sides elegant mullioned windows. In 1316 the bell was melted down and hoisted the Campana del Popolo, with the symbols of the Arts. Nowadays the palace houses an exhibition area and space for meetings and events. Not to be missed is a visit to the Sala dei Quattrocento , where once met the members who governed the city. Upon entering the Stanza Etrusca , you will see a small archaeological site consisting of a base of an Etruscan temple of the late fifth century, a stretch of aqueduct and a medieval cistern. Near the grand staircase of the Palazzo del Popolo will notice a gentleman who constantly watches over the square. We're talking about Adolfo Cozza (1848-1910), an eclectic character Orvieto: sculptor, restorer, a mechanical engineer and archaeologist. He designed the first funicular in Orvieto, opened in October 1888. Near the Palazzo del Capitano is the church of San Bernardo and the Church of San Carlo. The small church of San Rocco, now deconsecrated, is home to temporary exhibitions. The church contains a chapel with frescoes of the sixteenth century. The square is surrounded by other historical buildings such as the Palace Bracci, designed in the late nineteenth century by Vespignani, and the Palazzo dei Sette with elegant courtyard dominated by the Torre del Moro. To the south of the square is closed by Palazzo Simoncelli characterized beautiful balcony attributed to Scalza.
Torre del Moro and the Palazzo dei Sette
From Torre del Moro you can admire an enchanting view of the city of Orvieto! Climbed more than 200 steps you will see Orvieto as you've never seen! 47 meters high, the elegant tower, it is perfectly oriented according to the four cardinal points. Located near the Palazzo dei Sette, is at the heart of the medieval city. You will see it soar everywhere with its large clock and its two bells. It is precisely from the tower that the town of Orvieto runs in the four historic districts of Serancia, Corsica, Olmo and Stella. In medieval times, the Torre del Moro called Torre Del Papa, allowed a view of the whole territory of Orvieto, which then extended to the west to the sea, to the east to the mountain range preappenninica, and to the north to the mountains of Cetona and of Amiata. Over the centuries, the tower has belonged to different owners. In the sixteenth century, the tower was renamed "The Moro". The Moro was the owner of the building below the tower, this Roberto Sante or Gualtiero said Moro. Following the restoration of 1866 was installed the mechanical clock and two bells civic. The smallest came from the Tower of Sant'Andrea and the largest from Palazzo del Popolo. The latter is decorated with the arms of the captain of the people Poncello Orsini, the symbols of the twenty-five arts and the seal of the people of the city of Orvieto. Attention to the tolling of the bells characteristic but "invasive". The bells will result in many surprising effects. What can I say? Try !!! Expression of the apex of the economic and political development of Orvieto is also the noble edifice on which the Torre del Moro is located: the Palazzo dei Sette. It was born for the location of the most important magistracy of the Commune People: the seven consuls representing the Arts. In the sixteenth century it was granted as the home of Antonio da Sangallo il Giovane and later used in various different uses. Today it houses exhibitions, meetings and cultural events. What are you waiting book your guided tour of the Torre del Moro and the Palazzo dei Sette!
Albornoz Fortress
Orvieto is a must for any holiday in Umbria. The town is situated on a natural fortress: a tufa cliff which is reached by cable car. Orvieto has been called "The city high and strange". It was not easy for the enemy to climb all the way up through the few paths available. Nevertheless, starting in 1359 began the construction of the Fortress of Albornoz. It was founded by order of Cardinal Albornoz, under the orders of Pope Innocent VI and at the instruction of the leader and military engineer Ugolino di Montemarte. Once in Orvieto do not forget to take a tour inside the Fortezza Albornoz. The guided tour will help you to understand the history of the ancient and mighty fortifications. The fortress was quadrilateral shape and was protected by a moat with two drawbridges. It was destroyed and rebuilt several times. In 1390 it was rebuilt by Antonio da Carpi. In 1395 the Rock was almost completely leveled by the Beffati and then rebuilt by Nicolo V. Will definitely be rebuilt only in 1450 when Orvieto subjects itself to the papacy. After the sack of Rome at the end of 1527, Pope Clement VII took refuge in Orvieto and dug at the Rock the well-known well of St. Patrick. The aim was to provide water to the city at any time of year, especially in anticipation of a siege or a natural disaster. The design was commissioned Antonio da Sangallo the Giovane, the architect who was working on the fortifications of the cliff. The fort was completed by Pope Paul II and Pope Urban VIII (1620) and was later restored by Pope Alexander VII. Not much remains of the original structure. In 1888, the ditches were filled to the work of the Funicular. Today it houses the public gardens where the center we see an amphitheater with steps made by Francesco Ricchi. In the amphitheater, June 19, 1882 was celebrated the funeral of Giuseppe Garibaldi. The Fortress of Alboraz is the ideal place to spend relaxing moments with panoramic views of the beautiful surrounding valley.
Assisi
Assisi, is without doubt the most famous Umbrian city in the world, declared by Unesco World Heritage site. It is best known for being the birthplace of St. Francis, patron saint of Italy, and St. Clare. It is visited every year by thousands of pilgrims. The town of Assisi is situated on the slopes of Mount Subasio in Umbria, about 26 kilometers from Perugia. It is protected by a defense system consisting of eight fortified entrance and a long city walls, still in excellent condition. The fortifications belong to two castles: the Major Castle, reconstructed by the Cardinal Albornoz in 1367 and the Minor Castle. Assisi boasts unique places of worship in the world. All those who have the good fortune to visit this beautiful town can experience the atmosphere of the places that the history and faith of St. Francis of Assisi have made extraordinary. The guided tour will take you to discover the most famous monuments. Reaching the oldest part of the city you can admire the Roman ruins, perfectly integrated between the medieval houses that are still inhabited by locals. In the central Piazza del Comune, located on the ancient Forum, visit the Palazzo dei Priori dating back to 1337, the thirteenth-century Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo and the Torre del Popolo. Set an interesting Temple of Minerva, built in the time of Emperor Augustus. The tour continues with a visit to Assisi Cathedral, dedicated to Rufino, and you can admire the ancient strata of the church where he was baptized Francesco. The Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi is the center of Franciscan spirituality. The double Basilica was founded between 1257 and 1265 by Pope Gregory IX and built over the tomb of the saint. The building is composed of two superimposed churches, the upper Gothic aspect, bright and slender, the lower one instead, which is accessed through a Gothic portal of the 200, is low and austere. You will find yourself faced with an architectural masterpiece that embodies the best of Italian art of the Middle Ages, from Cimabue to Giotto, Simone Martini, Pietro Lorenzetti by Jacopo Torriti to Pietro Cavallini. The Basilica of St. Clare, founder of the Poor Clares, was built in the Italian Gothic style between 1257 and 1265, along the road that connects Porta Nuova at Basilica of St. Francis. St. Clare is buried in the church where he also kept the crucifix that spoke to St. Francis. From the square in front of the church you can enjoy a splendid view of the Umbrian valley. A few kilometers from the center of Assisi can visit the places connected with the life of St. Francis, as the Eremo delle Carceri, surrounded by a dense forest on the slopes of Mount Subasio and the Convent of San Damiano, built on the site where tradition has it that the Cross spoke to the saint. In the plain lies the impressive Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli, built to the plans of between 1569 and 1679, to protect the chapel of the Portiuncula, the poor first meeting of the Franciscan friars.
Assisi Roman
Assisi is not only the city of St. Francis. Its history is much older. Since the sixth century. BC, was an important center of Umbria and in 90 BC became a flourishing Roman municipality called Asisium. The city lived in wealth until the fall of the Empire. This is testified by the many monuments such as the Roman Forum, Temple of Minerva, the Amphitheatre, the Domus of Lalarium and the House of Sextus Propertius. Access to the Domus takes place exclusively means guided tour. Our tour guides will be happy to accompany you to the Domus and the Roman remains more significant still visible today in the streets of the historic center and in the palaces of Assisi. The House of the Lalarium, dating from the second half of the first century. B.C. and the first decades of the first century. AD, was found in the historic center of Assisi in the Palazzo Giampè. The domus is composed of as many as 13 rooms and by a peristyle, or the porch that surrounded the courtyard at the center of the house, usually adorned with fruit trees, fountains and small pools. In one room was found a lararium dedicated to the protector of the house, perhaps the god Silvanus. Assisi is the birthplace of Propertius, one of the greatest elegiac poets of the Roman era. From the crypt of the primitive cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore it comes down to a subterranean environment: the House of Sextus Propertius. You go into a house inhabited by a cultured person, lover and rich elegance. The floors are covered with mosaics important. In the walls, still covered with a fine decoration on a yellow background are numerous graffiti engraved with verses of poetry, one of which appoints a domus Musae. In the Piazza del Comune you can admire the largest Roman monument remained in Assisi: the temple of Minerva. It goes back to the first century. B.C. and was built by Gnaeus Cesium and Cesium Tito Prisco at their expense. Under the Piazza del Comune you can visit the ancient Roman Forum that was found during excavations in 1836. The remains of the Forum include the base of the temple, a monumental cistern, a podium with seats for judges and a small temple dedicated to Castor and Pollux. The archaeological collection is housed at the Museum of the Roman Forum. It is accessed by via Portica, through the Romanesque crypt of the church of San Nicolò, which displays sarcophagi, capitals and inscriptions from Assisi or the immediate surroundings. The museum extends over the surface underneath the square, to arrive in a room where you can see the pavement of the southern area of the ancient forum. Leaving from Piazza Matteotti and following via dell’Anfiteatro there are the remains of a Roman amphitheater, dating to the first century BC. It will not be difficult to recognize the ancient arena elliptical, now occupied entirely by medieval houses, and admire an unparalleled view of the upper part of the city.
Basilica of San Francesco
Assisi is a delightful medieval town full of quaint corners. In 2000 it was included in the list of World Heritage Sites. It is a unique example of historical continuity. Holy city of Christianity, Assisi is a popular destination for pilgrims who want to see the places where St. Francis was born, worked and died. Celebrated on October 4 as the patron saint of Italy, St. Francis of Assisi, lover of a lifestyle humble and poor, is the Holy most loved by Italians. One of the most beautiful sightseeing to do in the city is the Basilica of San Francesco. Going from Basilica of San Francesco we arrive at Piazza Superiore di San Francesco, a large irregularly shaped square where until 2008 stood out the great written PAX and a huge Tau. The square is also known as the Colle del Paradiso. The Colle, before the construction of the Basilica of San Francesco was called Colle dell’ Inferno because it was the place where executions were performed. The Basilica of San Francesco, built in the XIII century by Pope Gregory IX, consists of two parts: the Lower church and the Upper Church. The Sanctuary was conceived from the beginning as a two-story church, of which the lower part, intended to house the remains of St. Francis, was the memorial church, while the top was used for liturgical solemnities, in fact in the apse stands the papal throne and the Pope himself is the Bishop of this Church. The Lower Church, however, assumes the typical function of "crypt", or mausoleum erected over the tomb of a saint, as in the ancient early Christian temples. The Basilica of San Francesco is an architectural masterpiece that embodies the best of Italian art of the Middle Ages, from Cimabue to Giotto, Simone Martini, Pietro Lorenzetti, Jacopo Torriti and Pietro Cavallini. You will find yourself in front of the most interesting and important series of paintings of Franciscan iconography. Among the 28 wonderful frescoes by Giotto that narrate the life of St. Francis in the Basilica of Assisi, there is one in which we see the saint who appears to his comrades in a chariot of fire.
Basilica of Santa Chiara
The Basilica of Santa Chiara is an important place of worship in the historic center of Assisi. You can take guided tours of the Basilica of Santa Chiara. Path Corso Mazzini we will be in Piazza S. Chiara, dominated by the beautiful Basilica. The church, built in the Gothic style between 1257 and 1265, recalls the Upper Basilica of Assisi with large exterior columns and the facade with the typical pink stone extracted from quarries of Mount Subasio. The doorway is round-arched, with the ring around the bezel that is supported by two lions at rest. The bezel has a very ruined fresco of Giacomo Giorgetti. Higher up, there is a beautiful rose window with a double row of columns and arches. The interior of the church is a Latin cross with a nave, transept and a polygonal apse. In the crypt of the Basilica, you can admire the ruins of Santa Chiara and some relics particularly well preserved as a habit of St. Francis, and a robe made by St. Clare. Inside the Basilica of Santa Chiara is preserved beautiful wooden crucifix which, according to legend, spoke to St. Francis urging him to "rebuild the Church". The crucifix is in the first chapel on the right. This chapel and the following are the remains of the former church of St. George and represent the oldest part of the building. Very beautiful are also the frescoes inspired by the life of the saint, which are visible in the chancel, dating back to the period from the twelfth to the fourteenth century. St. Clare was born in Assisi in 1194 by the noble and rich family of Offreducci. She was soon conquered by the example of Francis of Assisi, who in those years, stripped of all clothing to return to his father Bernadone. Ran away from home and joined him at the Portiuncula. The holy cuts her hair and makes her wear the Franciscan habit, and then bring her to the Benedictine monastery of San Paolo in Bastia Umbra, where the father tries in vain to persuade her to return home. She then took refuge in the Church of San Damiano, where she founded the Order of Poor Clares female.
Via San Francesco
Absolutely not to be missed during your guided visit to Assisi, is a walk along Via San Francesco. It is a long straight that connects the Basilica Superiore of San Francesco in Assisi center. Along the way, as well as many small craft shops, is the Palazzo Giacobetti, dating from the seventeenth century. The baroque facade is marked by a monumental balcony resting on corbels. Today the palace is the seat of the Archivio del Sacro Convento, of the Municipal Archives, of the Notarial Archives and of the Public Library. Among the jewels of the Library, the Bible of St. Louis of Toulouse, with miniatures of the twelfth century, and the oldest text of the Writings of St. Francis: the original of the Laudes Creaturarum or the Canticle of the Creatures. On the opposite side of the road is the old Oratorio dei Pellegrini, a small church in a square shape. It was built in 1432 by the Confraternity of St. James and St. Anthony, who ran a hospital for pilgrims. Take time to stop and admire the magnificent paintings and frescoes it contains. The fresco on the façade is the Risen Christ and Sts. James and Anthony Abbot by Matteo da Gualdo. The interiors were done by Pierantonio da Foligno and Andrea d'Assisi, a pupil of Perugino. Behind the altar there is interesting fresco by Matteo da Gualdo, depicting the Madonna with Child and two saints pilgrims with their staves. Nearby are the Museo Civico and the seven arches of the portico of Mount Frumentario, old hospital and shelter of the 1267. Later, it was a place of gathering food reserves towns, particularly of grain. In nice porch can read the inscription with the date of commencement of such activity. Walking for another 200 meters you will arrive in Piazza del Comune, the ancient area of the Roman Forum, around which stood the Temple of Minerva, dating to the first century BC, a true jewel of ancient art.
Piazza del Comune
The Piazza del Comune is the center of Assisi, the place in which it takes place all its cultural, social and political life. It is located on the site of the ancient Roman Forum. Today, the Piazza del Comune is the "heart lay" of Assisi. The important buildings that surround it have been witnesses of the major political and historical events of the city. On the square stands the Torre del Popolo which was the seat of the Municipal Cadastre and the College of Notaries. The building, with a square, dates from the second half of the thirteenth century. The clock was installed in the mid-fifteenth century. In 1926 it was placed on the tower, the Bell of Lauds of 40 quintals. On the bell is engraved with the Canticle of the Creatures, maximum and sublime poetic expression of St. Francis. Beautiful is the Fountain of the three lions in front of the Post Office building, built in 1762 by John Martinucci. On the square are the most important buildings of the city: the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo, Palazzo dei Priori and the Temple of Minerva. The temple dates back to the first century. B.C. and was built by Gnaeus Cesium and Cesium Tito Prisco at their expense. In 1539 it was transformed into the church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva. In 1600 the church was transformed by Giorgetti in the current Baroque church and consecrated to St. Philip Blacks. Behind the temple of Minerva admire the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo. This is the first public building built in the Piazza del Comune. The building was constructed between 1212 and 1305, and became the seat of the Capitano del Popolo, or the Commander of the city militia. Towards the end of the fourteenth century it became the residence of the Podestà, or the Papal Vicar, and only later was used for other purposes. Today it is the headquarters of the International Society of Franciscan Studies. The Palazzo dei Priori, dating back to 1337, is the symbol of the city power. Downstairs opened various shops, while the offices of the Priors were located upstairs. The facade is decorated with coats of arms dating back to the second half of the fifteenth century. The building currently houses the town hall. Worth visiting is the civic art gallery located in the ground floor of the Palazzo dei Priori. What are you waiting book your guided visit to Assisi!
St. Francis and the Franciscan Sites
Assisi is definitely the most well-known town in Umbria. Its name evokes the extraordinary story of St. Francis and St. Clare who were born here and lived. The guided tour allows you to explore and discover traces of their existence. The itinerary begins with the Oratorio di San Francesco Piccolino, the birthplace of St. Francis, which is located behind the New Church and is also accessible by a portico of Corso Giuseppe Mazzini. We come in the Cathedral of San Rufino, the patron saint of the city, here you can still see the baptismal font where they were baptized, St. Francis, St. Clare and Frederick II of Swabia. Near the Oratorio di San Francesco Piccolino is the Chiesa Nuova, built in the seventeenth century and built on the spot which tradition identifies as the family home of St. Francis. The altar area was most likely the room of Francis. You will be accompanied to the house of Clare that overlooked the piazza of San Rufino in the upper part of the city inhabited by the nobles. Just from this house in 1211 fled in the night to the little church of the Portiuncula, where Francis and his companions were waiting. Admire the crucifix of San Damiano, which, according to legend, spoke to St. Francis urging him to "rebuild the Church". The crucifix is preserved in a chapel of the Basilica of Santa Chiara, built over the tomb of the saint. In the crypt of the Basilica, you can admire the ruins of Santa Chiara and some relics particularly well preserved as a habit of St. Francis and a robe made from Chiara. We head in Piazza del Vescovato, where there was the renunciation of the property , the saint's death, and the construction of the basilica in his honor. On 16 July 1228, just two years after his death, Francis was proclaimed a saint by Pope Gregory IX, the next day, July 17, was laid the foundation stone for the construction of imposing basilica. The Basilica of San Francesco is built on the tomb of the saint and it is extraordinary frescoes by painters such as Giotto, Simone Martini and Pietro Lorenzetti. In 2000, along with other Franciscan sites in the district, the basilica has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. A few kilometers from the center of Assisi have visited other places connected with the life of St. Francis. We will visit the Eremo delle Carceri, surrounded by a dense forest on the slopes of Mount Subasio, where Francis and his companions took refuge in prayer dearest. Surrounded by a lush olive grove is the Convent of San Damiano, built on the site where tradition has it that the Cross spoke to the saint. The convent received Chiara and her first companions and here the saint founded the Order of Poor Clares female. The tour will end with a visit to the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli, built to the plans of between 1569 and 1679, to protect the chapel of the Portiuncula, the poor meeting of the first Franciscan friars of the Franciscan experience and heart.
Spoleto
Spoleto is an ancient city, in every corner tells an important story. The name derives from the greek word meaning stone Spaolithos split. The city lies at the heart of the Umbrian valley a few kilometers from Perugia. "The mountain, the source, the bridge" is the motto that always contains the identity of Spoleto. It was a flourishing Roman municipality are evidence of the Arch of Drusus and Germanicus (23 AD), the Roman theater (first century AD.) and the Casa Romana, attributed to the mother of the Emperor Vespasian Polla. The old town is cut off from the famous Via Flaminia, a very important artery of Roman roads. The city was a real downtown "tourist" where the Roman nobles were home for the summer holidays. Spoleto played a crucial political role shortly after the arrival of the Lombards in Italy, which formed the Lombard Duchy of Spoleto. The Duchy of central Italy with its capital in Spoleto remained largely independent until 729 AD. The Cathedral is the main tourist attraction, situated in a lovely scenic location at the bottom of a long staircase that suddenly pops through the narrow streets of the center. Inside, there are many important works of art, including the splendid fifteenth-century frescoes in the apse, the last work of the Florentine painter Filippo Lippi. Milestones are also Mauri Palace, home to the Municipal Library, and Palazzo Leti Sensi, once the Palazzo del Podestà, then headquarters of the Consortium of Reclamation Umbra, now used for exhibitions. Climbing up to the top of the hill on which stands the city, you get to Ponte delle Torri, a masterpiece of medieval, unique in its kind. It is 220 meters long and 80 high, and it seems to have been built after the sacking of Spoleto by Barbarossa. On the hill, the view is dominated by the Rocca Albornoz, a magnificent example of military architecture of the fourteenth century. The Rocca is the symbol of the city and witness to the presence of the popes. The main courtyard of the fortress houses the Museo nazionale del Ducato and a space for exhibitions, concerts and conferences, while in the Cortile delle armi is a beautiful outdoor theater. Spoleto is more than fifty years the seat of the famous Festival dei Due Mondi, in which artists from around the world perform in concerts, dances and shows. The guided tour to Spoleto will leave you breathless thanks to the wealth of historical and artistic heritage city, witness of the different historical periods that saw protagonist.
The historic center of Spoleto
The guided tour will take you to Spoleto to discover the monuments and the most important places of the Umbrian town. Through the Porta Garibaldi will enter inside the walls that surround the historic center of Spoleto. One of the most important squares of the city is Piazza Garibaldi where there is the Chiesa di S. Gregorio Maggiore, was consecrated in 1146. The facade is preceded by a Renaissance portico, on which the Chapel of the Innocents, now baptistery decorated with frescoes of XIV sec., attributed to Angelucci da Mevale. The bell tower was begun in the twelfth century. From Piazza Garibaldi you climb the Via dell’Anfiteatro, bordered Caserma Minervio, built in the nineteenth century over a vast monastic complex was born in 1254 as a hospital and orphanage, one of the first in Europe. In Piazza della Libertà you will pass under the windows of the Palazzo Ancajani where you can look from the arches that give the remains of the Roman theater, in a complex of Sant'Agata, which now houses the Museo Archeologico Nazionale. It is said that Carlo Goldoni dedicated to Antonio Ancajani the comedy "The Lovers". In the intersection between Via Brignone and Via dell’Arco di Druso, in an area overlooking Piazza del Mercato, the ancient Roman forum, you will find Palazzo Mauri, houses the Biblioteca comunale ‘G. Carducci’. In the seventeenth century the palace belonged to the noble family Mauri and was home to the prestigious Academy Spoletina. To the left of the building is the Church of Sant'Ansano, the Crypt of St. Isaac (XI-XVIII Centuries) and the Arch of Drusus and Germanicus, important evidence from the Roman period. Going beyond the arc on the left will cross the entrance of Palazzo Leti Sensi, was once the Palazzo del Podesta, then the historical headquarters of the Consortium of Reclamation Umbra, now used for exhibitions. Going forward we will find the Fonte di Piazza (1746-1748) and on the left side, the monumental complex of the Basilica of St. Euphemia and the Diocesan Museum. The walk will be completed with a superb view of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, a rare example of a synthesis of Romanesque architecture, which houses frescoes by Pinturicchio and Filippo Lippi. The impressive staircase of via dell'Arringo introduces the Piazza del Duomo, which also houses the Teatro Caio Melissus. Set in the ancient walls you will see the headstone of Master Thomas Schipper, and the palace of "Casa Menotti", which houses the Documentation Centre of the Festival.
Rocca Albornoziana and Ponte delle Torri
On Colle Sant'Elia, the highest point of the city of Spoleto, is the Rocca Albornoz. It is an imposing fortress built starting in 1359 by Pope Innocent VI to restore the authority of the Pope. The fort is named after the Spanish Cardinal Egidio Albornoz, sent to Rome by the Pope for the project. He entrusted the direction of the work of Matteo da Gubbio Giovannello said "Gattapone". The Rock, over the centuries, became the residence of the various governors of Spoleto, enriched with frescoes and decorations. In 1817 it was converted into a prison and remained there until 1982. The guided tour allows you to visit the castle, rectangular in shape and defended by six imposing towers. It consists of two courtyards: the Cortile delle Armi, originally the headquarters of armed militias, and the Cortile d'Onore for administrators and governors. The two courtyards are connected by an archway decorated at the end of the sixteenth century with frescoes depicting six cities belonging to the State of the Church. The wider environment of the Rocca is the Salone d’Onore, intended to accommodate ceremonies and banquets. Entering the Camera Pinta you'll be fascinated by two beautiful fresco cycles gender profane dated between the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries. Within fifteen rooms of the Rocca is also home to the National Museum of the Duchy of Spoleto. The museum bears witness to the origin and development of the Duchy of Spoleto, consisting of around 570 after the Lombard conquest. In Rocca also established the European School of Restoration of the Book and the Diagnostic Laboratory of Cultural Heritage. Our tour guides will accompany you in the Giro della Rocca which winds for about a mile around the fortress. The walk will allow you to enjoy a fabulous view its main monuments of Spoleto. Going forward, on the cliff that separates the Colle Sant'Elia from Monteluco, we will see the Ponte delle Torri. It is an aqueduct from the amazing size, 230 meters long and 76 meters high, erected at the end of the fourteenth century, probably on the ruins of an earlier Roman structure. The bridge, a masterpiece of medieval engineering, unique, over the centuries, has always fascinated travelers and important historical figures and is still one of the most famous and picturesque of Spoleto.
The Cathedral of Spoleto
The main tourist attraction of Spoleto is the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, located in a lovely scenic location at the bottom of a long staircase that suddenly pops through the narrow streets of the center. It was started around 1175 on the site of the previous church destroyed by Frederick Barbarossa, was consecrated by Pope Innocent III in 1198 and completed between 1216 and 1227. The building underwent subsequent interventions by the addition of a portico of the Renaissance style between 1491 and 1504 and the interior refurbishment in '600. The facade of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the thirteenth century, is a hut. In the high facade adorned with rosettes and blind pointed arches, among the symbols of the four evangelists, stands the great Byzantine mosaic of 1207, which depicts Christ between the Virgin Mary and St. John. The central rose window, belonging to the construction phase of the twelfth century, is one of the richest in Umbria. In the lower part of the facade opens the Renaissance portico, designed by Antonio Barocci. It opens to the outside with five round arches interspersed with Corinthian columns. To the left of the facade, stands the thirteenth century bell tower with a square, also used for defense purposes. The interior of the cathedral is in Baroque style and has a Latin cross. After the altars of Valadier, one of the most important works which houses the Duomo is the "Crucifix", painted parchment applied on wood, done in 1187 by Alberto Sotio. It is one of the oldest examples of painted crosses. It shows the type of Christus Triumphans, which will spread until the early '200. At the center stands the figure of Christ, alive and triumphant over death. Among the many works of great artistic value stored include: in the first chapel on the right, a fresco with Madonna and Saints by Pinturicchio; above the central portal, a bronze bust of Pope Urban VIII by Bernini. The decoration of the vault is attributed to Giovanni da Spoleto (early fourteenth century.), while the frescoes on the walls are by Jacopo Siciliano (1540-50). On the right side of the transept is the tomb of Giovanni Francesco Orsini by Ambrogio Barocci (1500). In front of is the tomb of Fra Filippo Lippi. Just latter had achieved in the Cathedral and precisely in' pse an important cycle of frescoes: Nativity, Annunciation, Assumption of Mary and the Coronation.
Festival of the Two Worlds
The Festival of Two Worlds, also known as Spoleto Festival, is the most important festival in Umbria and for a long time remained the only one of its kind in Italy and to date, at national and European level, is one of the most important cultural events. It is an international event of music, arts, culture and entertainment that takes place annually in the city of Spoleto. The founder of the Festival is the master composer Gian Carlo Menotti, who founded the event in 1958. The intention of the master was to create a meeting ground between two artistic worlds, the American one and the European one, to celebrate the arts in all their forms. Hence the name of the festival called, precisely, "Of the two worlds". The event has reached the maximum of world-renowned and has inspired many similar events subsequently born. These include the Spoleto Festival USA in Charleston, South Carolina, founded in 1977 and directed for 17 years just by Gian Carlo Menotti; and the Melbourne International Arts Festival, an event founded in Australia in 1986 and directed by the teacher for 3 years more. The Festival of Two Worlds begins on the last Friday of June and lasts 17 days. Alternate ballet, opera, painting, lectures, concerts, theater, conferences, sacred music, readings, puppet shows and contemporary art. During the festival, the Teatro Nuovo, the Teatro Caio Melisso, the Teatro Romano, the Teatrino delle sei, the Complesso monumentale del San Nicolò, the Cortile della Rocca albornoziana, the Auditorium della Stella and the Piazza del Duomo, site of the traditional Final concert , have hosted some of the greatest artists of the '900 as Rudolf Nureyev, Carla Fracci, Luciano Pavarotti, Ken Russell, Roman Polanski, Ezra Pound, Vittorio Gassman, Arnoldo Foa, Joaquin Cortes, Kathleen Battle, Dario Fo and Franca Rame. The greatest sculptors of the world were invited to Spoleto to exhibit their works. Stands out among all the Teodelapio by Alexander Calder, considered the first monumental sculpture in the world. Many were the figures released by the Festival or who have become more widely known in Italy and in Europe thanks to it. In the eighties, the exhibition was also set up medical and scientific Spoletoscienza, who take part in congresses scientists and researchers.
Gubbio Routes
Gubbio is a beautiful medieval city, among the best preserved in Italy. A jewel of medieval architecture nestled on the steep slopes of Mount Ingino. Its ancient walls enclose Romanesque and Gothic churches, and palaces symbol of the civil power during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance splendor of Montefeltro. The visitor will be accompanied by several themed itineraries of Gubbio, the City of Fools. The medieval itinerary includes Piazza 40 Martiri with the Church of San Francesco, the charming neighborhood of San Martino and the Fontana del Bargello. The fountain, a sixteenth century but rebuilt in the last two centuries, is also called Fountain of fools: those three laps around it receives symbolically, after being 'baptized' with its water, the diploma of "crazy Gubbio". The Piazza Grande where we find the imposing Palazzo dei Consoli and the Duomo, is the largest Italian piazza roof. Gubbio is a very ancient city, its long history has its roots in prehistory as documented by Gola del Bottaccione. The route will take you to admire the Apennine limestone stratification and numerous fossil remains and small planktonic marine organisms. Gubbio was an important center of the population center of the Umbrian pre-Roman times. The archaeological itinerary includes a guided tour at the Roman Theatre, the Antiquarium, the archaeological area of Guastuglia, the Mausoleum of Pomponio Grecino and the Municipal Museum housed in the fourteenth-century Palazzo dei Consoli. The museum houses the famous Tables of Gubbio, seven bronze tablets containing requirements for ritual ceremonies and special instructions on the organization of the city-state of Umbria. This is the most important relic of pre-Roman epigraphy dated to the third-first century. B.C. Noteworthy are also the shrine illuminated (sec. XIV), the Cross-shaped work of the Maestro della Croce di Gubbio (beginning of sec. XIV), the Banner painted by Sinibaldo Ibi (1503) and the Conception by Francesco Signorelli (1527 circa) . Do not miss the Franciscan journey. St. Francis of Assisi came to Gubbio after leaving Assisi. Right here he performed the miracle to appease the fierce wolf that had terrorized the whole city. The Franciscan journey will allow you to relive the same atmosphere that the Holy lived after the separation from the father's house. The church of San Francesco, with important frescoes of the fifteenth century, is built on the site where the saint of Assisi obtained his first habit from a friend. Beautiful is Petroia Castle, birthplace of Federico da Montefeltro, a man who has marked the fifteenth century. The castle offers visitors the landscape that we often see in the works of Perugino and Piero della Francesca. In the Ducal Palace can admire the reconstruction of the "closet" of Duke Federico da Montefeltro. On May 15, holding the Gubbio in Umbria's most famous folk event: the Corsa dei Ceri, celebrated in honor of the patron St. Ubaldo. The last Sunday of May, on the Piazza della Signoria, another traditional event takes place in Gubbio: the Palio della Balestra, a real challenge between Gubbio and Sansepolcro. The city offers visitors an unforgettable glimpses into the intricate network of narrow streets. The famous fiction "Don Matteo" with famous actors Terence Hill, Nino Frassica, Flavio Insinna were shot in Gubbio.
Gubbio
Umbria, a region rich in history, art and culture, has always been a coveted destination for travelers from around the world. Nestling at the foot of Mount Ingino, Gubbio is one of the oldest towns in Umbria. Beautifully preserved, the city is full of monuments testifying its glorious past. Testimony of its ancient origins are the Tables of Gubbio, one of the most important documents Italic, and Roman Theatre just outside the walls. The passage of time seems to have forgotten to Gubbio, leaving this charming town in the heart of medieval architecture. The Gattapone has given shape to the enchanting Piazza Grande and the buildings surrounding it with one of the most impressive projects of the fourteenth century, which are still the backdrop to the famous Corsa dei Ceri, historical manifestation of the most heartfelt and affiliates in the region. The complex consists of a square roof supported by huge supporting arches on which stands the Palazzo dei Consoli, a true symbol of the communal period of Gubbio, and the Palazzo del Pretorio. To remind the Palazzo Beni, the Palazzo del Bargello with the famous Fontana dei Matti, and the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo. The Palazzo Ducale documents the importance of the period lived under the lordship of Montefeltro's duchy which the city was an integral part. It overlooks the city the Basilica of St. Ubaldo, which houses the remains of the patron saint of the city. Inside of the Church of Santa Maria Nuova, you can admire the Madonna del Belvedere painted by Ottaviano Nelli in 1413. The church and convent of Saint Augustine (XIII century) host within other frescoes by Nelli. In the triumphal arch is the Last Judgement, made perhaps with the help of Jacopo Salimbeni, by San Severino. In the apse are illustrated story of the life of St. Augustine. These paintings, dating from around 1420, is one of the major examples of painting. Beautiful is the Church of San Francesco, with important frescoes of the fifteenth century, built on the site where the saint of Assisi obtained his first habit from a friend. Let's not forget the Church of San Giovanni (XII century), characterized by the facade and bell tower in Romanesque style, the Church of San Pietro expanded in 1505 and the Church San Domenico enlarged in the fourteenth century. In Gubbio can buying the "driver of fools". How? Reach Largo Bargello where you will find a small fountain around which you have to turn three times to earn a driver's license and citizenship eugubina crazy! Not to be missed is a visit to one of the old blacksmiths shops, where you can still work by hand beating on the anvil incandescent material.
La Corsa dei Ceri and the Palio della Balestra
Walking the streets of Gubbio will be enchanted by this beautiful city and its cultural attractions. Among the most important events taking place in the city must be mentioned in the Corsa dei Ceri and the commemoration of the Palio della Balestra. The Palio della Balestra is a competition of shooting a crossbow from medieval location. It is held every year in Gubbio, the 'last Sunday of May. Participants wearing the ancient historical costume and came to watch the console and the city authorities. The Palio della Balestra is a real challenge between Gubbio and Sansepolcro. At balestriere winner is awarded the prize up for grabs. At the end of the event is the historic procession through the streets lit by torches. La Corsa dei Ceri is one of the craziest and characteristics of Italy. You will enjoy it in Gubbio each May 15. By at least five hundred years, the festival is celebrated in honor of the patron or the Bishop Ubaldo Baldassini. Ubaldo, beloved by the people, died 16 May 1160, and all citizens made a pilgrimage with burning candles. Since then, the procession of the transit takes place every year on the eve of death with the offering of votive candles by the guilds of Arts and Crafts. The Ceri are three tall, heavy wooden artefacts, respectively, surmounted by statues of St. Ubaldo, patron of the Masons, of St. George, the patron of Merciai and St. Anthony Abbot, patron of Asinary and Peasants and Students. The Ceraioli lead them to shoulder and ran through the streets of the city to the Basilica of St. Ubaldo, on the summit of Mount Ingino. The candles should be run at the maximum speed possible between the narrow climbs and descents of Gubbio. In the strange race of Gubbio there is no the order of arrival as there is no overtaking. In the Basilica of Sant 'Ubaldo always come first with the candle Sant'Ubaldo followed the candle with San Giorgio and finally the candle with St. Anthony. The Race is for Ceraioli a great test of physical strength and ability to run the Cero as much as possible in touch with avoiding the vertical walls and terraces, falls and pendute. If a candle falls, the candle or Ceri following must stop and wait. Ceri should always run at the maximum speed possible until exhaustion of Ceraioli. The code of honor of all Ceraioli prohibits any unsportsmanlike conduct and recognizes that the aim of the race is celebrating St. Ubaldo.
Todi
If you are in Umbria you can not miss the guided tour of Todi. The town is the ideal place to discover Umbria. The beautiful Todi has a long history. According to legend, the city was founded by the brother of the king of Chiusi, which appeared an eagle holding in its claws a drape and two eagles wings, alluding to Amelia and Terni strongly linked to the city by federative pact dominant. This was considered an omen for the foundation of the city. The central Piazza del Popolo is considered one of the most beautiful medieval squares and the largest in Italy. Here are the Palazzo del Popolo, Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo and the Palazzo dei Priori, built between the beginning of 1200 and the second half of 1300. In the vicinity of the Piazza del Popolo also rises the Cathedral of S. Maria Annunziata, reached by climbing the 33 steps of his eighteenth-century staircase. The guided tour includes the church of St. Mary of Consolation, "queen" of the churches of Todi. It is an elegant sixteenth-century temple and a perfect example of Renaissance architecture. Many call it the "Temple of Bramante" for his harmonious style due to the hand of genius Donato Bramante. Todi is the birthplace of one of the most important and respected Italian poets of the Middle Ages: friar Jacopone da Todi. Our tour guides will accompany you to the monument dedicated to him. It dates from 1930 and was built on the occasion of the seventh centenary of his birth (1230-1930). On top of the monument, admire the imposing church of San Fortunato, dedicated to the patron saint patron of Todi. Wonderful is the central portal of the mid-fifteenth century, full of decorations and symbols, attributed to the school of Jacopo della Quercia. In the crypt are the remains of Jacopone. Beautiful is the view over the Tiber Valley that can be enjoyed from the terrace of the Gardens Oberdan. In July 1849 Todi received Giuseppe Garibaldi for three days; here his wife Anita abandoned his saddle, now kept in the Museo Comunale. There was then planted a cypress tree that still stands in Piazza Garibaldi.
The gastronomy of Todi
Todi is known as "the most livable city in the world". The central Piazza del Popolo is considered one of the most beautiful medieval squares and the largest in Italy. Here are the Palazzo del Popolo, Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo and the Palazzo dei Priori, built between the beginning of 1200 and the second half of the 1300s. The old town, medieval, boasts sacred buildings of prestige as the Co-Cathedral of the Annunciation , the church of San Fortunato and the convent of San Giovanni Battista. Outside the walls is the famous Renaissance church of Our Lady of Consolation. Of interest is also the Rock, with its 411 m above sea level is the highest point of the city. The fortress was built by Pope Gregory IX in 1373. In addition to being a place full of marvelous monuments, Todi is also a treasure trove of flavors that remain in the memory of the visitor who taste them. The cuisine of Todi does not differ much from that of the traditional Umbrian cuisine. Simple and natural ingredients are the basis of a food that remains attached to its traditions. A poor cuisine, but with a touch of fantasy and dressing that can not regret the opulence. If you're looking for style and elegance you will right place. First, second, sweets, sausages, wines, cheeses. You can sample recipes unknown to most people, but of excellent quality. In many “norcinerie” find great salami, wild boar sausages, prosciutto di Norcia, Caciotta of cheese and famous crostini alla norcina:: croutons crunchy coated chicken livers enriched with a sauce made with anchovies and black truffle. Among the dishes we remember the Brustengolo, poor bread with dried fruit, such as the Umbrian tradition. Delicious is the cake sprinkled with colorful confetti called Ciaramicola. The Pizza Easter Umbrian dish-shaped cake, made with bread dough, cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs and olive oil, Todi is called "Pan nociato Todi" for adding, in 'mixture of walnuts, raisins, cloves and red wine.
Events in Todi
At about 45 km. from Perugia, we find Todi, dominant center along the Tiber. From a distance Todi immediately appears as an impregnable village perched on a hill, an "eagle's nest" protected by its rise. Location of ancient Umbrian origin, later conquered by the Romans, in the Middle Ages it was powerful and bitter enemy of nearby Orvieto. In municipal period (sec. XIII-XIV) was enriched with several monuments still the pride of the city. The historic grandeur of Todi is recognized in the majestic Piazza del Popolo which opens unexpected after the confined space of the lattice of medieval streets. Palazzo dei Priori, Palazzo del Capitano, Palazzo del Popolo and the Cathedral built in the twelfth century, are the backdrop for this unique space. The guided tour of Todi will allow you to admire also the Civic Museum, the Epigraphic Museum, the Complex of Lucretia, the Roman Cisterns, the Campanile di San Fortunato, the Crypt of the Cathedral, the Palazzo Vescovile and the Church of Nunziatina. In the town there are numerous artistic and cultural manifestations. During Easter Todi hosts the Antiques Festival in Italy. Palazzo del Vignola welcomes the best names in national antique. Typical & DopArt in June, a survey on regional agri-food products and the artistic quality, with exhibitions, tastings, games, walks and workshops. In July there is the Italian Grand Prix Mongolfieristico with the participation of hot air balloons from all over Europe and the United States. If you come to town in August will be charmed by the Todi Arte Festival, devoted to music, theater, the arts of the imagination, ballet, poetry and literature. The festival aims to promote the production of young Italian talents and bring to the attention of a wide audience also works by foreign artists. What are you waiting? Come to Todi!
Amalfi is a picturesque town in the heart of the Amalfi Coast, a popular destination for thousands of visitors every day. The Amalfi Coast is one of the most spectacular and picturesque in the world. Discover one of the best examples of the beauty and culture of the Mediterranean. Admire the splendor of Amalfi, the oldest of the Maritime Republics in Italy. The guided tour will lead you through the narrow lanes and houses in watercolor hues set in the rock. The town offers wonderful views and numerous testimonies of its prestigious past. Maritime commercial center of great importance, a meeting point between East and West, Amalfi reached its maximum splendor in the XI century. In memory of its ancient power every four years, in June, Amalfi is home to the “Historical Regatta of the Maritime Republics”. There are numerous examples of this historical period the most impressive of which is the magnificent Cattedrale di S. Andrea, which stands on top of a beautiful staircase leading to the main square. The building was completely renovated in 1230, in agreement with the style imposed by the conquerors of the Arab-Norman. Very important is the magnificent crypt containing the relics of Sant’ Andrea, the patron saint of Amalfi, brought from the East during the Fourth Crusade. Admire the superb Romanesque bell tower in earthenware, decorated with mosaics. In the square you can find out the Chiostro del Paradiso, an Arabian-style building dating from the twelfth century, which preserves relics of Roman and medieval times. Do not miss the ruins of the Arsenal of the Republic and the plaques reminiscent stop loving celebrities to Amalfi. Here Henrick Ibsen found the inspiration for his "A Doll's House"; stayed there Gregorovius, Morse, Bismark and Wagner. It does not end here, Amalfi always has something new to show to its guests, such as the unforgettable rainbow of colors of the Grotta dello Smeraldo.
Amalfi by sea
The Amalfi Coast is a stretch of coastline located south of the Sorrento peninsula overlooking the Gulf of Salerno. It is famous worldwide for its natural beauty. It takes its name from the town of Amalfi, the heart of the Amalfi Coast, not only geographically but also historically. Amalfi is the most ancient Maritime Republic of Italy. You can arrange tours to Amalfi and admire its natural beauty by sea. Once in the boat, you'll enjoy the best of the enchanting Riviera and its beautiful gorges. You'll spot easily via the via Maestra dei Villaggi with its many branches, and one after another the small villages of Amalfi: the Village of Pogerla, the Village of Pastena, Lone, Vettica Minore. You will be fascinated by the bell tower of St. Pancrazio and the cascade of houses that reaches to the sea. We will stop in the pretty beach of the Sirene marked by spectacular Grotta di Sant'Andrea. Here tradition says that lurked a mysterious Bue Marino. The mythological creature ate onions stolen at night to the farmers. We head into the beautiful beaches of Duoglio and Santa Croce. The beach of Santa Croce is famous for the clarity of its sea, but even more for the magnificent natural arch called "The Lovers Arch" and the tradition that wants a kiss as inseparable bond of love for all pairs which pass under the arch. Continuing admire the sixteenth century Tower of Vettica and Villa Ponti. The entire ridge for a long time belonged to Carlo Ponti, the famous film producer, and the adjoining tower was his engagement gift for the beautiful consort Sophia Loren. Arrive at Conca dei Marini, one of the most exclusive places of the Amalfi Coast and perhaps the entire world. Here there were the villas of the Agnelli, of the Moet et Chandon, of the Ruffo and of the D' Urso. In these shores loved to spend summer holidays the most popular first lady of America Jackie Kennedy and Margaret of England. Suspended in the air is the Convent of Santa Rosa, run by the nuns of the second order of the Dominicans, who invented the delicious Sfogliatelle S. Rosa. Visit the fishing village Conca dei Marini, admire the beautiful promontory of Capo di Conca and we will stop before the most beautiful tower of the Coast: Torre Bianca, built in 1563 by the Viceroy of Naples, Don Pedro de Toledo. The time for you has no value once you get to the magnificent Grotta dello Smeraldo. You feel like you get in a magnificent oriental temple, full of columns and stalactites bizarre shapes. You'll be surrounded by its beautiful colors: cobalt blue that gives way to turquoise, turquoise becomes emerald green. Do not miss before leaving the cave is the striking submerged crib in Vietri ceramics.
Torre dello Ziro
Torre dello Ziro is one of the landmarks of fascinating history of Amalfi. It is an idyllic place, halfway between Amalfi and Ravello. The tower is surrounded by a pine forest crossed by ancient paths. The stairway to the fortress, originally formed part of the walls of the Grand Duchy of Amalfi. After the Gate climb a few more steps and to the left is the first lookout point: in front at the top you can admire Villa Cimbrone and bottom opens the Vallone del torrente Dragone. Torre dello Ziro is an ancient watchtower overlooking the sea. In the past it was used as the many other towers scattered along the Amalfi Coast, to spot from a distance fleets of the Saracens, who came from the sea. The essential architecture and severe tower is complemented by a walkway of stone, with a sinuous shape. According to legend, was the scene of bloody events. The locals do not like to go to the tower because they consider it a place populated by ghosts. Here in the early 1500s, were imprisoned Giovanna D'Aragona called "the Mad" and her children. The fault of the woman was to have had a love affair with the butler court Antonio Beccadelli di Bologna, after being widowed Alfonso Piccolomini, Duke of Amalfi, dissolute and corrupt man who had been married only 12 years old. The affair created a great scandal at the time so the brothers imprisoned and slaughtered Giovanna and her children, in the tower. Next they made stabbing to death the butler. The tragic death has inspired numerous literary and theatrical. Remember: the story contained in the Palace of the pleasure by William Painter; the tragedy The Duchess of Malfi by John Webster, one of the masterpieces of the Elizabethan Theatre performed for the first time in 1614; the tragedy El mayordomo de la Duquesa Amalfi by Lope de Vega, represented for the first time in 1618; the detective novel Sleeping Murder by Agatha Christie, published posthumously in 1976. The panorama along the way is spectacular as it overlooks simultaneously on Atrai and Amalfi. What are you waiting? Book your guided tour.
The churches of Amalfi
Amalfi is a great starting point to admire the beautiful Amalfi Coast. Breathtaking scenery, archeology, history, hospitality and food of the highest order. The sun, the colors, the scents of the sea and the lemons will be etched in your heart. Amalfi is among the most beautiful and well known in Italy. The Cattedrale di Sant’Andrea in Piazza Duomo, is a place of pilgrimage by the faithful from all over the world. The oldest of building is the Basilica del SS. Crocifisso, built before the year 833. Worthy of note are the two chapels painted with scenes of Miracles and effigies of saints, including Fra Gerardo Sasso, founder of the Order of Malta. Among the treasures of the Basilica del SS. Crocifisso are: the embroidery Mitra Angioina dating back to 1297, made of gems, gold, enamel beads and 19,000; Chalice in gilded silver with enamel, pearls and gems of the first half of the century. XIV; rare pieces of silverware of the Neapolitan school; and the magnificent Falca arising from a Venetian galley of the fifteenth century., used by Saracen raiders to assault Amalfi but, as tradition, ended with many others to peak, shattered by the terrible storm that St. Andrea, who were devoted to the Amalfitans, broke out in defense of his proteges. In 987, next to the Basilica del SS. Crocifisso, the current cathedral was built, resulting in a single majestic cathedral six aisles, then divided into two churches in the Baroque era. The bell tower was begun in 1180 and completed in 1276 .The Crypt, intended to accommodate the sacred remains of St. Andrea the Apostle, was built in 1206. The holy relics are enclosed in a silver urn, placed under the central altar. In a vial placed inside the urn, we find the "Manna", a mysterious liquid from the miraculous effects, appeared for the first time on 29 November 1304. Attached to the cathedral is the Romanesque Chiostro del Paradiso. It was created between 1266 and 1268 by Archbishop Philip Augustariccio to house the remains of the noble Amalfi. Beautiful chapels with Pantacreator fresco of Christ and the Crucifixion of the school of Giotto (Roberto D'Oderisio). Other notable churches are the Church of S. Biagio and the Church of San Benedetto.
La Valle delle Ferriere
Amalfi is famous for the Cathedral of St. Andrea, the Arsenal of the Republic, the Naval Museum, the beautiful scenery, the picturesque streets adorned with charming shops and houses in watercolor hues set in the rock. Little known, but of great beauty, is the natural reserve of Valle delle Ferriere, a place that has amazed everyone who has visited. If you are fond of trekking is an experience not to be missed. The guided tour will take you to a place of inestimable scientific value and natural beauty. The starting point of the route is the village of Pontone, 225 meters above sea level. Here waterfalls makes the place very cool even in summer. You can go through the entire valley through two main paths. In this environment, surviving colonies of plants of extreme interest, conserved from time immemorial. These include the giant fern Woodwardia radicans, witness rare in Italy of pre-glacial flora, Pteris cretica, Pteris vittata and the carnivorous plant Pinguicula hirtiflora. Here is also spotted at the Salamander. Along the way you will encounter the remains of the quarries of iron from which the name of the Valley, and the ancient paper mills of Amalfi and of a hydroelectric plant. The area is actually also known as the Valle dei Mulini for the presence in the final part of the route of mills powered by water that were used for the production of the famous card Amalfi. Once in Amalfi, you can visit the Museum of the Charter where there is an old mill of the thirteenth century, and a library with over 3,000 books on the origins of the paper. If you want to buy the card Amalfi, you can instead head to the Cartiera Amatruda still producing papers, envelopes and cards filigree or pierced by the traditional methods.
Positano
When we speak of Positano, our thoughts turn inevitably to the sea. Positano is a lovely coastal village on the Amalfi Coast. Hosts every year thousands of tourists from all over the world. In Positano, as in the whole Amalfi Coast, there are many coves and secluded beaches, often accessible only by boat, where you can spend moments. Grotta La Porta is one of the many caves that characterize the rocky coast of Positano. The archaeological findings testify to a human presence in the Mesolithic period, with a subsistence economy based on shellfishing. Positano is considered as the Monte Carlo of Italy, not for the Casino and the unbridled luxury and ostentatious, but for the way in which it was built perched on a hill. How not to think of Moda Positano. For many years, Positano is the ideal stage for the parades early summer. Among its many features has to be on a human scale: its small size make Positano a village that can be visited on foot. The alleys of Positano are wonderful. Getting lost among the narrow streets you can go shopping, stroll, dine or have a drink, a snack cake shops. You can arrange guided tours of this cozy and colorful village. One of the most famous buildings of Positano is the Church of Santa Maria Assunta where many couples choose to get married. Among the most interesting monuments of Positano are the Watchtowers that in ancient times, were used for sightings of ships and to try to prevent the landing of the invading pirates and Saracens. Among these deserve attention: the Tower of the Sponda which is located in the upper area overlooking the Marina Grande of Positano; Trasita Tower, is located halfway along the path that leads from the Marina Grande beach Fornillo; Tower of Fornillo, the most recent built in '500 and the Tower of Li Galli, is located in islands "Li Galli". In Positano there are also beautiful eighteenth-century villas, some of which turned into hotels very luxurious. Along the road that leads to the sea you can admire Palazzo Murat. Via Cristoforo Colombo is located Villa Sersale. Among the eighteenth-century villas that deserve to be seen also remember Villa Orseola (ex Villa Margherita) and the Villa Stella romana.
Church of Santa Maria Assunta
Positano is a beautiful village overlooking the Amalfi Coast. It is a small village made large steps. The homes descend to the sea as a colorful waterfall. To enjoy the city you have to walk on foot, venturing through the narrow streets you will discover sights from which to admire the landscapes of beauty commendable. Positano is known throughout the world for its fashion boutiques and many are exposing their clothing. The atmosphere is magical, not only here you can breathe the air of worldliness but also of culture and tradition. The most famous building in Positano is the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, located in a scenic square. It is charming and picturesque! The church overlooks the Marina Grande beach which is accessed by a staircase. The detail that is most striking is the large yellow and green majolica dome. Kissed by the sun, the dome shines between the roofs of the houses. The yellow symbolizes the sun and the green the vegetation. Entering the church you will notice the smooth lines of classical style punctuated by beautiful columns with Ionic capitals clad in gold, while the arcades peep a series of cute winged cherubs. The interior is very bright, divided into three naves, the central nave is dominated by the main altar on which is placed a Byzantine icon of the Black Madonna with child. The Legend tells that this icon was on a sailing ship from the East whose journey was hampered by a severe storm right near Positano. The ship could not get close to the shore until the sailors did not hear the voice of Madonna repeating "Pose, pose." From here it is said to have originated the name Positano. Once rescued, the sailors gave the sacred image to the city where the church was built. In the church there are also a wonderful choir, a gold bust of San Vito and a beautiful baptismal font. The bell tower is located a short distance outside of the church and dates back to 1707.
Moda Mare Positano
The pretty Positano, perched on the Amalfi Coast, as well as being a meeting place for lovers of the sea and beautiful beaches, it is also a place where fashion has caught on and fashion companies have sprung up in different decades of the twentieth century, as the company Moda Positano was founded in 1981. Another company exporting fashion of Positano is Luiselle, born in the fifties with the aim of guaranteeing always high quality and professionalism. Luiselle is set up as a workshop at the forefront, while retaining all the features crafts. Another boutique is Cris Moda , in business since 1988. Positano is one of the places favored by celebrities like many other places in Italy, and the most popular destination on the Amalfi Coast. The clothes in Positano style have a huge range of products such as linen suits, classic shirts and stylish outfits in georgette and macramé, suitable for any occasion. The garments are designed to meet the needs of customers looking for a female boss craft sophisticated, elegant but also young and innovative. They are designed, created and produced in Italy but are marketed directly, but also with fairs and events, especially abroad. Positano is home to the world-famous event "Modamare in Positano". Tourists from all over the world are eager to attend the fashion shows spring / summer. The small streets that branch off to the village are set up as back stage picturesque. The staircase on which you place the extraordinary event leads to the pristine beach of the Coast. The scene changes every year and is always linked to the themes summer although normally the event held in the month of January. In an atmosphere of film, beautiful men and women wrapped in beautiful clothes, tickle the imagination of the spectators spellbound. The photographers do not lose moment to steal unforgettable images. In front of the staircase collects the audience waiting beauties will parade on the steps.
Capri
The island of Capri is the pearl of the Gulf of Naples. It is located about 3 nautical miles and a half away from the Sorrento Peninsula. Through numerous maritime connections Capri can be reached very easily from Naples and Sorrento. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations of the world tourism. There are numerous cruises to the famous "Faraglioni" symbol in the world of the Blue Island. By booking your guided tour to Capri you can discover beautiful places and fascinating monuments. Limestone, the island is surrounded on both sides by terrifying precipices, where there are numerous caves. The most famous and well-known is the Grotta Azzurra. The island exudes a charm like no other. You will be amazed by the scents of lush vegetation, beautiful colors of the sea and the mysterious caves. Famous Piazzetta Umberto I is located in the historic center. Capri was a famous place of residence of emperors and source of inspiration for many famous artists, poets and writers. Starting from the Piazzetta Umberto I and onto Via delle Botteghe, Via Fuorlovado, Via Croce and finally Via Tiberio, you arrive at the beautiful Villa Jovis, the residence of the emperor Tiberius. Many other attractions are nearby, such as the Church of Santa Maria del Soccorso, the Cave of Tiberius and the Torre del Faro. On the southern side of the island are the Gardens of Augustus, full of trees and flower beds. From the terraces of the gardens you can enjoy a spectacular view of the Faraglioni and on and the bay of Marina Piccola where Gracie Fields lived. After a series of turns is the famous Via Krupp. The street takes its name from the German industrialist owner of some land on the island, and is considered "almost a work of art" for the beautiful view and the unusual shape. The Belvedere Tragara is another site that certainly is worth stamped. We like to think that here Ulysses was tempted by the sirens. The bay of Marina Piccola is the place to go if you are looking for a beach with a view of the Faraglioni. From Marina Grande you can reach the village of Anacapri situated at 275 meters above sea level. Here you can admire the Villa San Michele by Axel Munthe and the Church of S. Michele with its beautiful tiled floor. You can get on the chair lift to the summit of Monte Solaro. Reaching the top, in the background we see Ischia, Procida, Sorrento, Naples and Mount Vesuvius. The emperor Tiberius, from here dominated the Roman Empire, admiring his greatness.
Faraglioni
In the south east of Capri, which is in the most beautiful side of island, the spectacular colors of nature and the Faraglioni are waiting to welcome you. The Faraglioni are the symbol and emblem of Capri. They are rocky peaks that emerge from the sea, visible from the rooftop terrace of the Gardens of Augustus, the gardens of Capri, once owned by Albert Friedrich Krupp, a great lover of marine biology at the head of the Krupp steelworks. The Faraglioni famous all over the world, were also mentioned by Virgil in the Aeneid narrating the myth of the Sirens. Formerly on their summits, great fires were lit at night, so as to indicate the route to the sailors and obstacles to navigation. The name derives from the greek pharos, which means in fact the lighthouse. The Faraglioni are three: il Faraglione di Terra or Saetta, Faraglione di Mezzo or Stella and Faraglione di Fuori or Scopolo. There is actually a fourth faraglione called scoglio del Monacone because until the last century in the waters off you could see the monk seal. Saetta is the single stack still joined to the mainland, and is the highest with its 109 meters. The Faraglione di Mezzo is 81 meters high and is traversed in full by a natural tunnel. This cavity is the one that identifies the distinctive cliffs of Capri. Have been devoted to it numerous films. We remember especially the film Il secondo tragico Fantozzi, when doing water skiing, in an attempt to pass through, he hits the faraglione in the middle, causing an earthquake that reached up to the famous Piazzetta Umberto I. The Faraglione di Fuori is a promontory overlooking the sea, 104 meters high. Here lives the blue lizard of the Faraglioni and is the only place where you can find it. It is said to have taken these colors to blend in with the sea and with the sky. Around the rocks the sea currents make it particularly violent, surrounding rock formations and splashes different colors, making them even more fascinating and mysterious. After admiring the magnificent view of the Faraglioni you can visit some beautiful caves located nearby: the Grotta di Forca and the Grotta di Porto Tragara. Come to Capri and book your tour!
Grotta Azzurra
One of the landmarks of Capri is the Grotta Azzurra. It is located in the district town of Anacapri and is one of the most famous places in the world. From all over the world flock to see her, even for a few minutes. An amazing view, but also a strong emotional experience is offered by the Grotta Azzurra, the place where the sea penetrates only through a narrow opening. Admission is two meters wide and tall one. Will impress the intense blue of its waters. In the Grotta Azzurra takes a particular phenomenon of refraction of light which, touching the water, is projected on the walls of cave 20 meters deep. Its color is due to the effect of reflected sunlight filtered through a second opening in the rock. A second phenomenon determines the silvery reflections of the objects immersed. The air bubbles which adhere to the outer surface of objects, having a refractive index different from that of the water, allow the light to exit. The cave is located under the Roman villa Damecuta of Anacapri and is also home to Roman ruins. The statues found in its interior are now stored at the Casa Rossa in Anacapri. So it was already known in ancient times, as do the Grotta di Matromània, the Romans turned into a nymph richly decorated with stucco and mosaics, and dedicated to the worship of Cybele. For many years, the Grotta Azzurra was never visited and, indeed, it was feared by sailors because the local folk legends described it as a place haunted by the spirits and demons. One day in 1826, however, the local fisherman Angelo Ferraro accompanied the German writer August Kopisch and painter Ernst Fries to visit it. The two told the wonder of Grotta Azzura, and since then became a regular stop for every trip to Capri. We offer a complete tour around the Isle of Capri with a stop at the Grotta Azzurra. The guided tour takes place via boat and includes a stop in front of the spectacular cave. Who wants to join in, must come down from the boat to get on small rowing boats, the only suitable ones to cross the narrow entrance to the Grotta Azzurra. Enter a fairytale cave, where float is a bit fly!
Anacapri
Marina Grande is the fishing village of the Isle of Capri and disembarkation point for each route between Capri and other places in the Gulf of Naples. From Marina Grande you can reach the village of Anacapri situated at 275 meters above sea level. In Anacapri you can still walk calmly between quiet squares and narrow streets scented geraniums. The historic center of Anacapri is enlivened by small and characteristic shops of artisans, mostly concentrated in Via Giuseppe Orlandi. Going down this street you meet the Casa Rossa, historic house painted in Pompeian red and characterized by different architectural styles. It was the home of the American Colonel John H. Clay MacKowen. In the halls of the Casa Rossa you can enjoy the permanent exhibition "L'Isola dipinta: viaggio pittorico a Capri ed Anacapri tra Ottocento e Novecento" an exhibition of paintings signed by important artists such as Barret, Carelli, De Montalant, Carabain, Lovatti, Hay, Casciaro, Vianelli. In the vicinity of Casa Rossa is located Piazza San Nicola with the beautiful Church of San Michele Arcangelo. The baroque building was built between the XVII and XVIII century with the neighboring complesso delle Teresiane by architect Domenico Antonio Vaccaro. It is one of the main tourist attractions of the island thanks to the tiled floor depicting the expulsion of Adam and Eve from Paradise, by the Neapolitan maestro Leonardo Chiaiese. The main religious building of Anacapri is the church of St. Sophia, built in the sixteenth century on the site of the ancient parish of Santa Maria of Constantinople. Piazza Boffe is one of the oldest districts of Anacapri. Beautiful is Via Capodimonte , the road that leads to the Museo di Villa San Michele and the belvedere overlooking the Gulf of Naples. Villa San Michele was the home of Axel Munthe, Swedish physician and one of the most famous people of the Isle of Capri. The villa is located in the most scenic spots of Anacapri, on the north-east and 327 meters above the sea level, right where once stood a Roman imperial villa and a medieval chapel. Villa San Michele is now a museum open to the public and houses an enviable collection of finds of Roman, Etruscan and Egyptian collected during the many trips and the permanence of the scholar on the Isle of Capri. Among the major items: a Medusa's head which adorned the temple of Venus and Rome, the marble bust of Emperor Tiberius and the and the Egyptian sphinx. In summer here you hold the prestigious music festival Concerti al Tramonto. A Piazza Vittoria is the station of the chairlift to reach the top of Mount Solaro where you can admire the wonderful view of the sea and the background Ischia, Procida, Sorrento, Naples and Mount Vesuvius.
Villa Jovis
Capri is the island where the Emperor Tiberius ruled the Roman Empire. He ran away from the noisy and chaotic Rome and took refuge in Capri to devote contemplative idleness. Tiberius had twelve villas on the island, but the most important is Villa Jovis. It is said that the emperor during his periods of existential crisis, he spent whole days in the deepest solitude, walking along the viewpoint of his villa that overlooks the two gulfs of Naples and Salerno. It was built in the first century A.D. on the east side of the island, an area of approximately 7,000 m2. At 334 meters above sea level, the villa overlooks the entire promontory of Monte Tiberio and the valley that leads down to Cesina. From its vantage point you can see the island of Ischia, Procida, the Bay of Naples, the Sorrentine peninsula and then the Gulf of Salerno to the lands of the Cilento. The Villa Jovis fits very well to the particular nature of the soil, taking advantage of the considerable differences in level through the creation of terraces overlooking the sea. The architectural features of the complex are reminiscent of the classic villas of the Roman period, but also those of a small fortress. At the center stood the cisterns to collect rainwater, a vital resource on an island with no natural sources. On the west side of the villa there was the slave quarters and north housing the emperor and his most trusted aides, as the astrologer Thrasyllus. The east side, however, was occupied by the throne room. Near the villa there was a lighthouse (collapsed due to an earthquake a few days after the death of Tiberius) is used for reporting to the mainland and astronomical observations. Villa Jovis was rediscovered in the eighteenth century under the rule of Charles of Bourbon suffered devastating excavations during which they were removed many valuable marble floors. The villa, which is in a good state of preservation, was the subject of a recovery action in 1932 directed by archaeologist Amedeo Maiuri, then Superintendent of Antiquities of Campania and Director of the National Archaeological Museum of Naples. Some artifacts found near the villa are kept in the Archaeological Museum of Naples and in the Church of Santo Stefano in Capri. Some elements of the paste of red and blue were used for the miter and the necklace of San Costanzo, the patron saint of the island of Capri.
Sorrento
One of the most fascinating tourist destinations of the Amalfi Coast is Sorrento, just 46 Km away from Naples. Built on a ridge of tuff, the city is part of the Sorrento Peninsula. Since ancient times, many travelers stopped here to enjoy the pleasures of the sea and good food. The excellent quality of food available in the area, such as vegetables, pasta, mozzarella cheese and fish, have allowed Sorrento to become a real capital of Mediterranean flavors. The city is famous worldwide for the production of oranges and lemons. Every year, thousands of tourists are fascinated by observing its typical landscape that sees the alternation of mountain and sea, and the succession of terraces of citrus. The beautiful Town of citrus fruit has natural, cultural and artistic beauty, unique in the world. The guided tour of Sorrento takes place mostly on foot through the maze of the old town. Piazza Tasso is the heart of Sorrento. On the square there are splendid historic buildings, such as Palazzo Correale and the Baroque Church of the Carmine and valuable statues. The main one is undoubtedly that of Torquato Tasso, the Renaissance poet who has headed the square. At the center is the statue of St. Anthony, the patron saint of Sorrento. On the square is the famous Via San Cesareo, where ancient artisan shops alternate with souvenir shops and excellent ice cream parlors. Give yourself a break with a delicious homemade ice cream and see if the tastes are irresistible as the famous limoncello liqueur. One of the most interesting monuments to see in Sorrento is the Church and Convent of St. Francesco, with its characteristic cloister. This is now used as a venue for concerts of classical music. Magnificent is the Museo-Bottega della Tarsia Lignea is located inside Palazzo Pomarici Santomasi. It exhibits collections of furniture and objects made by the greatest inlayers 800. Do not miss is the Museo Correale, established in 1917 in the palace of the eighteenth century. The museum houses Greek and Roman artefacts, marble medieval furnishings of southern Italy from the fifteenth to the eighteenth century and nineteenth century paintings of the Neapolitan school and the School of Posillipo and paintings attributed to Rubens and Brueghel. On display are also pottery and ceramics, figurines nativity, watches, lace and there is a whole section dedicated to local art of cabinet. Sorrento is the ideal place to organize nature walks and hikes in the renowned neighboring cities of Herculaneum, Pompeii, Capri, Ischia and Positano.
Pompeii: the two cities
Pompeii, just 20 km from the city of Naples, stretches on the slopes of Vesuvius. It is famous worldwide for the presence of archaeological excavations. In 1997, Pompeii was enrolled among the sites that are deemed a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The main feature that makes Pompeii, unique in the world, is in fact to enclose under a single name two cities. The old town was buried by a sea of lava coming down the last eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Tons of ash, pumice and lava covered the ancient Pompeii under a layer of more than 6 meters preserving at the same time, most of the ravages of time. In the ancient Roman village life has been stationary at the time of the eruption. In the sixteenth century it was discovered almost by accident during the construction of an aqueduct and a witness to what is a plaque near Porta Nocera. Thanks to architect Fiorelli today we can see the locations where the inhabitants perished in Pompeii during the eruption. He invented the method for obtaining the casts, by pouring liquid plaster into the void left by the bodies. The casts are an important witness of the catastrophe. The guided tour to the archaeological site will send you extraordinary emotions. The villas, statues, frescoes, pottery, furnishings and the various tools will make you understand the habits and customs of the ancient inhabitants of Pompeii. The Pompeii today, was born thanks to the work of the lawyer Bartolo Longo commissioned by the Countess Marianna De Fusco. The apparition of Our Lady urged Bartolo Longo to build the Santuario della Madonna del Rosario, by developing the new town around it. The building is one of the major centers of Marian devotion in Italy. It has a magnificent dome of 57 m. set of 4 pillars. The interior is full of marble, frescoes and mosaics. On the altar is placed the painting of Our Lady of Pompeii. It is a seventeenth-century painting, created the school of Luca Giordano, adorned with gems and surrounded by a rich bronze frame. It is surrounded by the Mysteries of the Rosary, paintings on copper by Vincenzo Paliotti.
The archaeological excavations of Pompeii
Pompeii, located about 30 km from Naples and 20 kilometers from Sorrento, is the most visited archaeological site in Italy and in the world. In 1997, the ruins of Pompeii, now owned by the Superintendence for Archaeological Heritage of Pompeii, Herculaneum and Stabiae, along with those of Herculaneum and Oplonti, have become part of the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is the only archaeological site in the world, together with that of Herculaneum, which can return a Roman town, whose life has stagnated to a distant morning of 79 AD, a time from which the Vesuvius decided to delete it forever. The ancient city has an excellent state of preservation and covers an area of approximately 66 hectares. Pompeii has remained virtually intact after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. The visit to the ruins of Pompeii immerses the visitor in the daily life of the Roman world 2000 years ago. The city has an elliptical plan, was divided by a regular grid of streets intersecting at right angles. The Forum is the heart of the city, its political, administrative and commercial center. It is surrounded by a portico and dominated by the temple of Jupiter. The Macellum was the market of the city. Forum is opposed to the Theatre District, the hub of cultural and religious activities of Pompeii, built in the second century BC. Here you will find the Amphitheatre and the Palestra Grande. The guided tour will allow you to admire shops, craft shops, patrician houses with fascinating frescoes and mosaics and the impressive plaster casts of the bodies of the victims of the tragic eruption of 79 AD. The pumice and lapilli, solidifying around the bodies invested, they have retained the imprint, allowing archaeologists to return them in the attitudes recruited by brief but excruciating agonies. Important are the Villa of the Mysteries, Villa of Diomedes, the Imperial Villa and the Villa di Giulia Felice. They give us valuable information about the styles of famous painting from Pompeii. We remind the House of Octavius Quartio, the Casa Dei Vettii, House of the Faun, House of the Dioscuri, the House of the Surgeon and the House of the Tragic Poet, the entrance to which is located a mosaic bearing the inscription: "CAVE CANEM 'or "Beware of Dog." Of great interest are also the thermal baths governance: the Forum Baths and Spas Stabiane. Most of the finds recovered in Pompeii, furniture, frescoes, mosaics and statues, is now kept in the National Archaeological Museum in Naples and in small quantities in the Antiquarium at Pompeii.
The casts in Pompeii
August 79 A.D. Vesuvius destroyed the famous cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. According to Pliny the Younger, writer and senator at the time, the earth trembled very strong in 63 AD and one month before the volcano covered them all with his ashes were started noticing odd columns of smoke. In a letter Pliny speaks of difficulty breathing because of the smoke coming out of the Vesuvius. Many fled Pompeii but many others remained quiet in their homes until one day knew hell. Pliny describes the terrible scenes: ashes floating in the air and visible emissions hundreds of miles. Pompeii and Herculaneum were covered by ash and the people buried in it. The pumice and lapilli, solidifying around the bodies invested, they have retained the imprint, allowing archaeologists to return them in the attitudes taken after very brief but excruciating agonies, due to the high temperature. In the ancient Roman village life has been stationary at the time of the eruption. Thanks to architect Fiorelli today we can observe the positions in which perished at Pompeii during the eruption. He invented the method for obtaining the casts, by pouring liquid plaster into the void left by the now dissolved bodies. The casts are an important witness of the catastrophe. Of these findings have been found many. Recall a dog, even on a leash, a pig, and then women and children huddled together, as to want to fall asleep almost before the disaster not to see anything. We can see the expression of the faces, the shapes of the clothes and the locations where the Pompeian were surprised by the fury of the volcano. The image that best returns the direct drive of the tragedy is that of a man fell down the stairs during the escape from the House of Fabius Rufus. The casts, preserved in the Pompeii is one of the most tragic evidence of the disaster that struck the city. From the position of some casts you can guess that the majority of the inhabitants of Pompeii died from the fumes of noxious gases that are released into the eruption.
The paintings of Pompeii
The visit to the archaeological excavations of Pompeii will leave lovers of archeology and not simply spellbound. The archaeological site is among the most famous in the world since 1997 and is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The old city at the foot of Vesuvius, that flourished during the Roman period, it was destroyed in 79 AD following the famous eruption of the volcano that covered it in lava and ash. Among the many treasures that can be counted in the archaeological site, we remember the extraordinary paintings. The Pompeian wall paintings were executed in fresco, tempera and encaustic. The first technique that meets in Pompeii is the first Pompeian style. This is common in buildings and in particular in the homes of Samnite period. We are faced with a plastic imitation of alabaster and porphyry, with the predominant colors of red and black with a yellow stripe at the bottom. In Pompeii, this style is encountered in the Basilica, the Temple of Jupiter, but also in some private homes, such as the House of the Faun and the House of Sallust. The second Pompeian style falls in the period from 80 BC at the end of the first century B.C. and we can see in the Villa of the Mysteries and in the Homes of Obellius Firmus, the Labyrinth, of the Silver Wedding, the Criptoportico. In this style elements such as cornices and friezes with plant shoots are beginning to be made in stucco paintings instead. On the walls, instead of the base are painted in the foreground podiums with fake colonnades, kiosks and doors behind which there are perspective views. It was also used to paint still lifes with game along with vegetables and fruits. The third Pompeian style came up to the middle of the first century AD and completely reversed the perspective and the three-dimensional characteristics of the previous style giving way to flat structures. Curtains and upholstery, the center of which were painted in light colors small panels depicting scenes of various kinds. This style we find in the dining room of the Villa della Porta Marina, in the House of Lucretius Fronto and the Villa Imperiale. The fourth Pompeian style states in the age of Nero and is distinguished from others by the inclusion of fantastic architecture. Back in fashion imitations of marble facing, the false architecture and trompe-l'oeil style characteristic of the second but the ornamentation with chandeliers, winged figures, plant shoots, which are characteristic of the third style. Most of the villas of Pompeii were decorated with paintings in this style. In the foyer of the House of Meander are fine squares with episodes from the Trojan War. One of the most representative is the one that depicts the meeting of Priam, Menelaus and Helen in the royal palace, while Ajax chases Cassandra who tries in vain defense at the Palladium.
Santuario della Beata Vergine del Rosario di Pompei
In Piazza Bartolo Longo, in Pompeii, the famous Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary. The Sanctuary is one of the main stages of all guided tours in Pompeii. It is the seat of the Territorial Prelature and the Pontifical Delegation. At one time the area called Campo Pompeiano, was a fief of the Caracciolo and then Ferdinand of Aragon. In 1593 it became the property of Alfonso Piccolomini. The area began a long decline until the arrival of Bartolo Longo, who arrived in Pompeii to administer the property of the Countess De Fusco. The two married in 1885 and shared a life in the service of the most needy. The apparition of Our Lady urged Bartolo Longo to build the Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary, developing around it the new city of Pompeii. The building is one of the major centers of Marian devotion in Italy. The shrine was erected with the spontaneous offerings of the faithful from all over the world. Its construction began on May 8, 1876, with the collection of the offer of "a penny a month." The work was originally directed by Antonio Cua, a professor at the University of Naples. Subsequently, John Ruspoli took charge of the decoration and monumental facade, culminating in the statue of the Virgin of the Rosary, by Gaetano Chiaromontes. The shrine was built in the Papal Basilica Maggiore by Pope Leo XIII on May 4, 1901 With the passage of time and the significant increase of the crowds of worshipers it was necessary to expand the sanctuary. This expansion was carried out from 1934 to 1938, designed by Chiappetta. The Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary has a magnificent dome of 57 m. set of 4 pillars. The bell tower, which has its own entrance from a bronze door, has five floors and was designed by Aristide and Pio Leonori. The facade has two orders: the lower one is in the Ionic style, the upper one is in the Corinthian style. The basilica is a Latin cross with three naves, the interior is full of marble, frescoes and mosaics. On the altar is placed the painting of Our Lady of Pompeii. It is a seventeenth-century painting, created the school of Luca Giordano, adorned with gems and surrounded by a rich bronze frame. It is surrounded by the Mysteries of the Rosary, paintings on copper by Vincenzo Paliotti. The canvas has become the object of deep veneration throughout the world. The painting was bought from a junk shop by Father Alberto Maria Radente of the Convent of S. Domenico Maggiore, who gave it to Bartolo Longo. It happened that a young man had gone to the shrine to ask Our Lady to be healed from epilepsy. The miracle occurred and since then, the church has become a place of international pilgrimage. In the squares in front of the shrine is a monument to Bartolo Longo, the work of Domenico Ponzi Ravenna. Not far from the sanctuary is the home of Bartolo Longo, whose upper floor was used as a museum. Our tour guides will be happy to accompany you on a visit to these places of extraordinary importance.
The sacred canvas of Pompeii
One of the most important treasures of the city of Pompeii is the picture of Our Lady of Pompeii. The canvas is the object of deep veneration worldwide. It is 120 cm high and 100 cm wide. The guided tour in Pompeii will take you to admire the canvas, maintained the high altar of the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Pompeii. Looking at the picture you will notice that the Madonna enthroned with the Child in her arms with Saints Dominic and Catherine of Siena. Madonna holds out the saints of the Most Holy Rosary crowns. The Madonna wears a red dress, a blue mantle and the head has a crown surrounded by stars. Sitting on a stone throne in the clouds, which is imprinted AVE MARIA. Baby Jesus is naked. St. Dominic and St. Catherine of Siena dress clothes Dominicans. It is a seventeenth-century painting, created the school of Luca Giordano, adorned with gems and surrounded by a rich bronze frame. It is surrounded by the Mysteries of the Rosary, paintings on copper by Vincenzo Paliotti. Blessed Bartholomew Longo purchased the sacred image from Sister Maria Concetta De Litala, at the suggestion of Father Radente. At the moment the canvas it appeared defaced, worn out by time and missing pieces of color. In addition, the Madonna had an attitude unhistorical: the Virgin holds out the crown to Santa Rosa, Santa Caterina Da Siena rather than, as in the Dominican tradition. Bartolo was on the point of leaving the canvas, but he took with him also because of the insistence of the nun. On November 13, 1875, the image of the Madonna arrived in Pompeii. On February 13, 1876, occurred the first miracle through the intercession of Our Lady of Pompeii: the twelve Clorinda Lucarelli, considered incurable by the distinguished prof. Antonio Cardarelli, was perfectly cured by terrible epileptic seizures. The painting underwent several restorations by Guglielmo Galella; Maldarelli Federico, who was also in charge of transforming the figure of Santa Rosa in Santa Caterina da Siena; and Francis Chiariello. The last restoration was carried out in 1965 at the Pontifical Institute of the Benedictine Fathers Olivetani of Rome. It was a highly scientific restoration, during which, under the colors overlapped in previous interventions, were discovered the original colors that unveiled the hands of a talented artist from the school of Luca Giordano (XVII century).
The gastronomy in Pompeii
Pompeii was one of the most dazzling of the Roman era, as evidenced by the remains sprouting everywhere. The city is famous throughout the world for archaeological excavations, extraordinary testimony of everyday life in the Roman world. It is the only archaeological site in the world, together with that of Herculaneum, which can return a Roman town, whose life has stagnated to a distant morning of 79 AD , when Mount Vesuvius erupted. Before the Vesuvius exploded and bury the city under a thick blanket of ash, Pompeii was a city that produced and exported large quantities of wine and oil. In many of the villas of the Roman nobility, found during excavations, were found machines for baling grapes and olives. What ate the Pompeian is documented by the finds of charred food. The main foods were vegetables and fruit. The bread produced in different bakeries with attached mill with millstones, was undoubtedly a staple food. Famous was a type of cabbage that was grown in the area, also known as the cabbage in Rome Pompeii or "cauliflower". Another food especially prevalent were the olives. Renowned cheese production (caseus), also smoked, taken from sheep's milk and cow. Today the kitchen Pompeian collects the main recipes of the cuisine of Campania. Restaurants and eateries are scattered 'everywhere, but the best are in the area of the archaeological excavations and near the Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii. Typical dishes and must-try are: Bunettu de laete, a classic and simple dessert can be enjoyed alone or with whipped cream, fresh fruit, sweet sauces of various kinds; the cannolini in broth served with cheese, the Castagnass, a soft batter with raisins. Every April 25 in Pompeii there is the food fair "Flavors & Knowledge". Meats, cheeses, pasta, mozzarella, wine, desserts are the protagonists. You will be teased by the creativity, not only in taste!
The House of the Faun and the Villa of the Mysteries
The archaeological excavations of Pompeii have yielded the remains of houses impressive. One of the larger houses of the old town is definitely the House of the Faun, buried during the eruption of 79 AD Vesuvius. It owes its name to a bronze statue, depicting a dancing satyr, located in the impluvium or the fountain of atrium. It is a huge complex, with rooms, environments and areas dedicated to the most diverse activities. The House of the Faun was a sort of modern residences, in which there was also a kind of shopping mall. The house consists of two large communicating areas, each with a private entrance, connected by a series of workshops Leased retailers. The owner will surely be one of the most envied in the city. Villa of the Mysteries, initially called Villa Item, is the villa most important of Pompeii. The square building is located on a hill from which you enjoyed a beautiful view of the Bay of Naples on today. It owes its name to a series of paintings discovered in a room: a young woman who is initiated into a cult. Archaeologists have not been able to understand its meaning. The dispute centers on the kind of ritual that the woman is about to be initiated. Some argue that it is a Dionysian rite, others simply believe that the woman is prepared for the wedding. It is not possible to ascertain who owned the villa, but some findings imply that the owners should be wealthy Roman patricians. The house had many rooms, all decorated with great elegance and several of which were devoted to dinners and social events. Some scholars argue that the villa belonged to Livia, the wife of the Emperor Augustus, whose statue was found in the ruins. A strong awe and charm will accompany your guided tour of the House of the Faun, the Villa of the Mysteries and the rest of the archaeological excavations of Pompeii.
Vesuvius
Discover the grandeur of Mount Vesuvius, the only active volcano on the mainland, in Europe. Vesuvius dominates the Bay of Naples. It has had numerous eruptions, the most famous of which was that of 79 AD that destroyed Pompeii and Herculaneum. The last eruption occurred in 1944 with the guided tour you will stroll through the nature reserve and enjoy the simple climb to the top. The crater can be visited all year round, weather permitting. The mountain is covered with luxuriant vegetation and is famous for its vineyards of which are reminiscent of exceptional wines, such as the "Lacrima Christi". The heady scent that emanates broom, accompanied by red valerian and common purslane, strikes the visitor even before you start the climb. The slope allows you to admire the view of Mount Somma and widen the view on the Valle del Gigante. A steep path, 860 meters long, with a vertical drop of 135 meters and an average slope of 14%, in 15-20 minutes leads on the western edge of the crater, to the height of 1180 meters. The cavity is over 300 meters deep, with a circumference of the crater about 500 meters. The path continues among characteristic projections and short leads to Capannuccia (1170 meters) behind which you can reach the highest point of Mount Vesuvius, 1281 meters! From the top of the volcano you will have an unparalleled view of the entire Gulf of Naples! The temperature on top of the volcano is generally lower compared to its slopes and the wind can unexpectedly affect the crater area. We recommend sneakers or hiking boots hiking, binoculars, sunglasses and water. At the end of the walk, our tour guides will take you to the Torre del Greco, lying at the foot of the volcano and famous for its coral and cameo. The excursion to Mount Vesuvius can be matched also to Pompeii, Herculaneum and Naples.
Ercolano
Located on a promontory at the foot of Vesuvius, Herculaneum is one of the most important archaeological sites in Italy. Although not large compared to nearby Pompeii, the city is an extraordinary tourist destination. In 1997 it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The Roman city of Herculaneum, along with that of Pompeii was buried by a sea of lava coming down the last eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. The city remained buried until about 1700, when it was brought to light by chance. In the ancient Roman village life has been stationary at the time of the eruption. The guided tour to the archaeological site will send you extraordinary emotions. You will be immersed in the daily life of the Roman world 2000 years ago. The thing that will strike you immediately is the preservation of wood over time, and the fibers of the papyrus plant. You can see the strings that go back to the eruption, the entrance doors of the villas, and numerous other wooden items. Unlike Pompeii, which was buried by a rain of ash and lapilli, Herculaneum was overwhelmed by a flood of mud and volcanic debris that formed a tuff rock hard. For this reason, organic materials could be preserved in an optimal manner. It will be an unforgettable walk immersed in one of the pages of Italian history. The Roman city was divided with great regularity in Insule, or the houses of the Romans. Among the ruins of the houses of the time, certainly stand out: the Casa d'Argo; the Casa a Graticcio; the Casa dell'Atrio a Mosaico; the Casa Sannitica; the Casa dal tramezzo di Legno; the Casa dei Cervi. Other interesting places are the Baths, the Office of the Augustals, the Gymnasium and the Theatre. Very important is the Villa of the Papyri, partially excavated but visited. Here were found sculptures in bronze and marble, now in the National Archaeological Museum of Naples; and the library of papyri, more than 1800 philosophical texts, now in the National Library of Naples. The guided visit to Herculaneum can be completed with one at the National Archaeological Museum in Naples, which exposes many of the artifacts found in the archaeological area.
National Archaeological Museum of Naples
The National Archaeological Museum of Naples is one of the most important archaeological museum in Italy. It was inaugurated in 1816 under the name of Royal Bourbon Museum. It is considered the most valuable archaeological museum in the world. The building that now houses the museum is the Palazzo del Real museo, built in 1585 as a "cavalry barracks". It is one of the most impressive palaces in Naples. It stands on the site of an ancient necropolis of the Greek Neapolis: the necropolis of Santa Teresa. The guided visit to the National Archaeological Museum of Naples will allow you to admire a collection of works of art and priceless artifacts. The museum consists of three main sections. The Farnese Collection consists of artifacts from Rome and its surroundings. In the halls of the Farnese Collection must see are the Farnese Hercules, colossal copy of the original by Lysippos, and the Farnese Bull, perhaps the largest sculpture has come down from ancient times. You can admire the group of gems, including the so-called Farnese cup, made from a single piece of agate. It is the most famous cameo antiquity, belonged to Frederick II of Swabia and Lorenzo the Magnificent. The Pompeian Collection consists of finds from the Vesuvian area, forming part of the collections especially Bourbon. Frescoes, statues and precious objects of everyday use. Important are the Medagliere and the celebrated Gabinetto Segreto, the collection of artifacts "obscene" that documents the ancient customs in the theme of eroticism. Do not miss the section of the mosaics, which stand out those of the House of the Faun in Pompeii. The most famous of these, the mosaic of Alexander, a copy of a famous Hellenistic painting is made with pieces of small size and depicting the battle between Alexander the Great and Darius III on horseback fleeing on the bandwagon. Of the sculpture of the Villa of the Papyri at Herculaneum, are worthy of attention busts of philosophers and men of letters, the five dancers Danaids, the famous bronze statues of the two runners, a Hermes and the Satyr drunk. The Egyptian Collection in importance, is located in Italy in second place after the Egyptian Museum of Turin. Of great importance are the works from the collection Borgia, formed in the second half of the eighteenth century by Cardinal Stefano Borgia. This collection highlights a moment of interest in Egypt prior to the Napoleonic expedition. Another highlight from the collection is that of Picchianti. Exposes elements of the funeral, votive objects, slabs which was attributed the power to magically protect their owner from the dangers of various kinds, sarcophagi, mummies and inscriptions. Recall also the Epigraphic Collection, the Numismatic Collection, Section Topographic Salone della Meridiana and Station Neapolis.