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History & Culture |
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Italy has one of the fullest and richest histories of any country in the world. One can only really experience all it has to offer by touring its many famous cities and villages. But as they say, ''Rome wasn''t built in a day,'' let''s explore the brief history of this boot-shaped republic.
Varied inhabitance in Italy began as early as 8th century BC by Greeks & Etruscans, but the settlement of the Etruscans in the 2nd century BC stimulated the displaced Latin inhabitants to flock to Rome laying the foundations of the Eternal City on a small shepherd''s village. Eventually the occupying Etruscans went on to capture Rome but the Latins with the support of the Greeks, Phoenicians and Sicilians overthrew the Etruscans in 250 BC stimulating the further growth of Rome and the beginning of the mighty Roman Empire. For over 300 years the Roman Empire dominated the entire Mediterranean world and at its peak stretched to the borders of Scotland.
The Roman Empire steadily declined through the 3rd and 4th centuries A.D. and by the time Rome was sacked by the Barbarians in 410 it was a shadow of its former glory. However, out of fall of the mighty Empire, rose the power of the Popes who continue to this day to lead the worldwide Catholic Church.
Despite the fall of the Roman Empire the Italian region remained a powerful cultural force and during the 15th and 16th centuries led the cultural renaissance through artists of the caliber of Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo.
It was not until 1861 that the Kingdom of Italy was formed and this was followed by a secondary expansive phase in Italy''s history under the fascist dictatorship of Mussolini. In 1935 Italy invaded Ethiopia and then, after signing the ''Axis'' agreement with Germany, invaded Greece in 1940.
Following the Allies victory in World War II the Republic of Italy was established in 1946 and just 11 years later Italy signed the Treaty of Rome establishing itself as one of the founder members of the European Community.
Recent history has seen Italy establish itself as one of the cultural capitals of the World with its name synonymous with high fashion, world class cuisine and as the home of the European super car. With it''s rich history, diverse people and refined culture, Italy offers a wholly unforgettable holiday complete with fine food and wine.
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Shopping |
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Shops are open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3:30 or 4 p.m. to 7:30 or 8 p.m., with some variation in Northern Italy (Milan, Turin), where the lunch break is shorter and shops close earlier. Prices are reasonable and the quality of goods is usually high. Chain stores such as La Rinascente, Coin, Upim, and Standa are found in many Italian cities and towns.
Some excellent purchase options are: Clothes for men and women (dresses, shoes, gloves, silk ties, shirts); lacework, jewelry, leather goods (handbags, cases, boxes, luggage), ceramics, gold and silver hems, alabaster, woodwork, straw, embroidery, glass and crystal ware.
Foreign tourists making acquisitions in Italy can claim an I.V.A. (sales tax) rebate, provided that more than 155 Euro is spent at the same store on the same day. If this is the case, ask the vendor for a proper receipt describing the merchandise purchased and stating the amount of tax paid. When you leave Europe (no later than 90 days after the date of the purchase), show your receipt to Customs and have them stamp it. Then mail the receipt to the vendor, who should forward the I.V.A. rebate to you. On a $1000.-purchase, you should get about $115-160 back.
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Sightseeing |
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While most will recognize the Great Colosseum or the leaning tower of Pisa, the richness of Italian history can be seen throughout the country. In Modena you will find the magnificent, Romanesque architecture of the Cathedral Duomo and the symbol of the city, La Ghirlandina, it''s bell-tower. In Venice, Doge''s Palace and the Ponte di Rilato. In Rome, the Spanish Steps, the Fountain of the Four Rivers, the Trevi Fountain and the Vatican, home of St. Peter''s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. Each unique landmark welcomes sightseers, photographers and history buffs. This is just a taste of the picturesque and history rich culture waiting for you in Italy!
Italy''s culture is also rich in creativity. A vast number of museums welcome you to enjoy the creations of world reknowned Italian painters and artisians, or explore the archaeological treasures of ancient cultures who at one time occupied and ruled this land. Museums may be the best way to completely emmerse yourself in history, in Italy you will find many. In Rome the Museo Pigorini offers a glipse into the pre-historic past, and is home to the Venus of Savignano, a late Paleolithic sculpture found in Modena. Greek influence can still be felt in Italy, especially in the southern coastal region where Grecian architecture is well preserved, and one can find an array of necropolises, temples and theatres. It is reported that these archeological remains are among the most evocative in all of Europe. The most highly lauded collection of Magna Grecian collections can be viewed at the Archaeological Museum in Agrigento. Etruscan influences also trace back as far as the 8th century BC, one can explore the remnants of these people in museums throughout the country as their creations vary, by region. Etruscan life and creation are best explored in museums in Volterra, Tarquinia and Rome. National museums are generally open from 9 a.m. to 1 or 2 p.m. and are closed on Mondays. Hours vary, so it is best to check before you plan your day. A good pair of walking shoes will be your best friend during your tour of the sites and museums, but your camera may come in a close second!
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Food & Drink |
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Although it has long been popular primarily for its cheapness and convenience, Italian food occupies a revered place as one of the world''s great cuisines. The southern Italian diet especially, with its emphasis on olive oil, fresh and plentiful fruit, vegetables and fish, is one of the healthiest in Europe, and there are few national cuisines that can boast so much variety in both ingredients and cooking methods. Italy''s wines, too, are among the finest and most diverse in Europe and a main stay of the Italian diet produced in fine vineyards throughout the country. The international image of cheap fizz and rough reds is long out of date, as today''s producers bring the palate a refreshing reinvention of an old favorite.
The basics of Italian cuisine
Although the twentieth century has contributed to the blur of regional differences of Italian food, they are still there - and often highly evident, with the French influence strong in Piedmonte, Austrian flavours in the Trentino-Alto Adige region and the distinct Mediterranean flair of Sicily. Relax, enjoy the beautiful countryside and explore rustic Italian cuisine in Abruzzo, and drink the wine the Gods in Tuscany. Regional celebrations occur throughout the summer months when olives and grapes, mozzarella and tomatoes are celebrated with dedicated food festivals. The most authentic of which you will find off the beaten path in villages of yesteryear, be sure to find one while you are there!
Breakfast
Most Italians start their day in a bar or ''caffee'', their breakfast consisting of a coffee with hot milk (cappuccino) and a brioche. Breakfast is traditionally a simple occasion, offering a light fare of biscuits or pastry with jam. It is important to note that café''s and coffee bars are traditionally eaten standing up. Sit down service costs upwards of 100% more! Also keep in mind that the strength of Italian coffee is leagues above what we expect in North America!
Coffee
Coffee is an institution as much as a tradition in Italian culture. Morning coffee, breakfast coffee, pre-lunch coffee, afternoon coffee, after-dinner coffee, night cap, it is consumed at the highest rate in the world in Italy. ''Caffe'', the standard cup, is not generally standard for North Americans. ''Caffe'' has the potency and strength of our espresso. You can order different degrees of strength, but higher more than lower concentrations are available in the form of extra-strong, ''ristretto'' or for the truly caffeinated bloodstream, ''doppio'' double shot. Expect the standard coffee in most hotels, and some restaurants; coffee bars are your best bet for special orders, including the weaker, ''lungo,'' variety.
Meals: Lunch and dinner
Lunch can range from a sandwich on the run from the local ''paninoteca'' to a 5 course meal complete with gelato and coffee in a fine ''ristorante'', and is generally served from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.. As in any situation, your lunch choice will vary based on your breakfast, or lack of, your activity for the day and your dinner arrangements. ''Paninoteca'' and ''rosticcerie'' are your best options for a quick, light lunch. Expect to stand while you enjoy a selection of hot and cold dishes, mostly prepared ahead of time. Full meals are often elaborate affairs, generally served in either a ''trattoria'' or a ''ristorante'' . Traditionally, a ''trattoria'' is a small, family run establishment with modest décor but great food for less money. The traditional ''ristorante'' will feature a full course selection, moderate to high end décor, great food but higher prices. In fact, you will find that lunch and dinner menus rarely differ so expect a full meal at full price when ordering ''ristorante'' fare midday. Dinner is usually served from 7:30 p.m. through the later evening hours, wrapping up at about 10:00 or 11:00 p.m.. For a more traditional Italian experience enjoy your final meal of the day after 8:30 or 9:00 p.m. in good, local company.
Pizza
Pizza is now a worldwide phenomenon, but Italy remains the best place to eat it. The creations served up here are completely different from the pizza pies that have taken shape elsewhere in the world, especially in Naples, the home of the pizza pie. Pizzerias, or ''pizza a taglio'' or ''pizza rustica,'' can be found throughout Italy, common in city and country-side alike. In most cases the pies are pre-made and ready for consumption. These tend to be hole-in-the-wall eateries, mostly open only during the evening hours in the city, but you can often buy slices by weight so try a variety of toppings! As you travel throughout the country be sure to try the regions pizza, you will find the style of crust, toppings and eateries to vary greatly throughout the boot.
Wine, Beer & Spirits
Although many Italian children are brought up on wine and a mezzo (half-litre carafe) is a standard accompaniment to any meal, there''s not a great emphasis on dedicated drinking in Italy. You will find that a sparkling wine may be served as an apertif, though cocktails are not traditionally consumed before dinner. You can find beer, ''birra'', on draught, ''alla spina'', or bottled, national labels and imported throughout Italy. Spirits of all sorts can be found as well, authentic spirits, known as ''grappa'' is made from the biproduct of the winemaking process. This stiff shot is not for the faint of heart, and is most certainly an acquired taste, you can also find ''distillato'' which is a touch more expensive, but made from the grape itself, will satisfy a more refined palate. When you have the chance, complete your authentic Italian experience within each region by tasting a local wine, ''vino sfuso'', often served from the barrel that was used to distill. Overindulgence is far from celebrated in Italian culture, you will be wise to stick to limited consumption of alcohol during your visit.
Snacks & Ice Cream
Forget ''Italian Ice'' as you know it. Gelato in Italy is a truly unique experience, one to be had by travelers of all ages. You can find this creamy treat at ''gelateria''s'' throughout Italy. A great treat to cool you down after a rush or sightseeing or shopping. You may also choose to pop into a ''latteria'' for a quick dairy snack like cheese or yogurt and an ''il forno'' for bread and then a ''gastronomia'' for cold cuts and wine, then dine al fresco on the Piazza or in the park. For some wine and a light snack, try an ''enoteca,'' a comfortable wine bar.
Helpful Hints:
A few tips for eating and ordering in Italy: it is best not to order Fish on Sunday, as the markets are closed and it will be at least one day old. Olive oil is not only available for salads, but also as a tasty accent to bread and fish and as a replacement for butter. Coffee is an important part of Italian culture, but is always served after the meal, not during. And though a tie is not required, Italians generally don casual yet sophisticated apparel when eating out.
Child or booster seat - ''seggiola'' or ''sediolina''
Cover charge- ''Coperto''
Gratuity (tip) - ''Servizio''
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